Rangamati hosted a colorful reception on Saturday to honor three local football stars—Rupna Chakma, Ritu Porna Chakma and Monika Chakma—for their pivotal roles in Bangladesh's historic victory at the Women's SAFF Championship.
The celebration took place at Chinghla Mong Mari Stadium, with arrangements made by the district administration in collaboration with the Army Region, Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Board, Hill District Council, and District Police Administration.
Each of the footballers was awarded a cash prize of Tk 3 lakh along with commemorative mementos.
Distinguished guests, including Rangamati Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Mosharraf Hossain Khan, Brigadier General Shaukat Osman, Hill District Council Chairman Kajal Talukdar, and Superintendent of Police Dr. SM Farhad Hossain, presented the honors. Rangamati Municipality Administrator Nasrin Sultana also contributed Tk 50,000 and mementos on behalf of the municipality.
The celebration began with a vibrant procession at 10 AM, starting from Ghagra High School ground. The champions, riding atop three decorated trucks, were joined by their former coaches, headmasters, FIFA referee Joya Chakma, and a ceremonial police band. A convoy of over 100 motorbikes, adorned with Bangladeshi flags, escorted the procession through the town, passing Bonrupa before concluding at the stadium.
Various local organizations and sports clubs also honored the players with additional mementos, underscoring the community’s pride in their achievements.
The heartfelt reception reflected the region’s joy and admiration for the three athletes, who not only brought glory to Bangladesh but also shone as inspirations for the Chittagong Hill Tracts community.
