A Journey by Boat

               A JOURNEY BY BOAT

Journey is always a pleasurable experience for all and I am also not an exception. I never miss the chance to go on a journey, especially if it means going on a boat ride. Since Bangladesh is a riverine country, a boat ride gives one the clearest picture of the scenic beauty of Bangladesh.

    A few days ago, I went on a journey by boat from Mongla to Paikgacha during my Autumn vacation. We were 6 in number and I was entrusted to hire an engine fitted boat. The boatmen were nice people. We had our breakfast early in the morning. We started off at 7:00 am. The sky was clear and the weather was sunny. The river was calm but full to the brim. The boat began to move smoothly; there were small waves on the river. We enjoyed the scenes on both sides of the river. There were green fields, paddy fields and jute fields, rows of trees which were full of flowers. These things charmed our eyes and soothed our souls. We saw many boys and girls diving and swimming in the river. Fishermen were catching fish and the women were seen fetching water in colorful pitchers. We reached a village market at around 12 pm. The boatmen cast anchor and we got down. We bought rice, eggs, a big hilsha fish and curds. The boatman kindly offered to cook the dinner. We took our meal and it was delicious. We took rest for a while and started off on our journey again.

     The boatman tried to reach the destination before the sunset as it was late afternoon. The sun was setting with all its glory. The setting sun reflected on the gleaming water and created an ethereal feeling inside us. The boat moved slowly and we reached our destination. It was dark all round.

     This journey has remained entrenched in my memory. It gave me much pleasure to experience the beauty of the motherland again.