The Boat Industry of Classical Bengal
Boats have been an integral part of transportation in Bangladesh since ancient times. Even today, boats remain a vital means of local transport and goods transportation in many parts of the world, including Bangladesh. The diverse styles and purposes of boats have led to the development of various types of boats, some of which are still in use today. Let’s explore some of these fascinating boats:
Dinghy
The dinghy is one of the most well-known small boats in Bangladesh. It is primarily used for crossing rivers or transporting small quantities of goods. Due to its small size, a single boatman can easily operate it. Sometimes, sails are also used to aid in navigation. People living along riverbanks or in haor-baor regions frequently use this boat.
Kosha
Kosha boats are commonly seen during the rainy season in char areas or beels. Unlike other boats, the pelvic timber of a kosha is not large. The size of a kosha varies by region. It is typically used as a family boat for short distances, such as trips to local markets. An ideal kosha boat can carry up to eight passengers. It is usually propelled by oars (baitha) but can also be maneuvered using logs in shallow water. Heavier kosha boats used for carrying substantial loads are known as ‘grass boats.’
Donga
The donga is a canoe made by hollowing out the trunk of a palm tree, making it quite durable. However, it cannot carry many people or goods. The sides are low, making it difficult for two people to sit side by side. The bottom of the canoe is kept thick to prevent it from getting stuck. The palm tree trunk does not rot easily, allowing the canoe to be used for several years.
Sampan
Sampan boats are designed to navigate the waves of the sea and are more common in the Chittagong and Kutubdia areas. The front of these boats is high and curved, while the back is straight. They are used for transporting goods and sometimes have sails. Large sampans, which are now extinct, once required seven boatmen and had three triangular sails.
Bajra
In the past, wealthy individuals used bajra boats for leisurely trips. These boats were like floating houses, equipped with all necessary amenities, including food. Some bajra boats also had sails and required four boatmen. They were mainly seen in the Sirajganj and Pabna regions.
Jewelry
Jewelry boats, medium in size, were more common in the Kishoreganj region and were primarily used for passenger transport. These boats could carry about 25-30 passengers at a time. Larger jewelry boats were found in the Rajshahi region, capable of carrying even more passengers. Unfortunately, these boats are now on the verge of extinction.
Race Boats
Race boats, ranging from 150 to 200 feet in length, were used in competitions. These boats could have anywhere from twenty-five to one hundred boatmen. The Nawab kings used to organize races with these boats, which were given beautiful names like Pankhiraj, Storm Bird, Dwipraj, and Sonar Tari. These boats were found in regions such as Kishoreganj, Pabna, Mymensingh, Faridpur, Noakhali, and Comilla.
Bachari Boat
The Bachari boat was a commercial vessel capable of carrying loads up to 40 tons. However, it has become extinct in recent decades.
Batnai
Also known as ‘Padi,’ the Batnai is a type of freight barge used in the Khulna region for transporting goods. These large barges are no longer seen due to the rise of mechanized boats. The manpower required to operate a Batnai was significant, often needing 17-18 boatmen.
Moyurpongkhi
The Moyurpongkhi, a fancy boat used by kings, has a front side resembling a peacock, hence its name. It required four boatmen to operate and had two sails.
Balar
The Balar boat has been used since ancient times for trade and commerce in the Kushtia region. This famous boat played a crucial role in the region’s economic activities.
The boat industry of classical Bengal showcases the ingenuity and adaptability of its people. These boats not only facilitated transportation and trade but also became a part of the cultural heritage of Bangladesh. Although many traditional boats are now extinct or rarely seen, their legacy continues to inspire and remind us of a rich maritime history.