Hilsa trade in Chuadanga remarkably bleak during Pahela Baishakh
Economic stress, dissatisfaction with hilsa quality, or shifting eating habits among the younger generation are likely contributing to the declining interest in hilsa
Despite the cultural significance of hilsa and fermented rice during Pahela Baishakh, the bustling fish markets in Chuadanga experienced low turnout of customers ahead of the occasion, leaving traders extremely frustrated.
During a visit to the Boro Bazar fish market in Chuadanga district town last night (13 April) and this morning, this UNB correspondent found that the fish traders were sitting idle while the number of customers were a few, though the price is comparatively lower than the previous years.
Only four traders were seen selling hilsa at the fish market.
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"In the previous years, there was a mad rush for hilsa days before Pahela Baishakh but this time, hardly anyone is coming and there's no enthusiasm among them," said one of the traders.
Hilsa was being sold at Tk700-Tk1,600 per kg, depending on the size, but even the reduced prices failed to attract customers.
"Last year, I used to sell 20 to 30 kg daily during this time," said another trader. "This year, I can't even sell 5 kg a day. Lowering prices isn't helping."
Shahriar Hossain, a customer at the market, said, "I usually have panta (fermented rice) and hilsa every Baishakh. But this time, there's less fish in the market and prices are too high. A medium-sized hilsa is priced at Tk1,200 per kg. With other household expenses, it's hard to justify the cost. Besides, the taste and freshness is not like before. I only bought one for Tk600 because the kids insisted."
Sahab Ali, who has been selling hilsa before Baishakh for the past 10 years, said, "Customers used to flock to every Baishakh. But this year, the response is disappointing. Some complain about the price, others about the quality. Even after lowering prices, we are seeing no benefit."
Sheuli Akhter, a government employee, said, "I came to the market for something special during the holiday but our family isn't that interested in panta and ilish. Even the kids don't like it, so we didn't plan for it."
This year, the emotional connection with hilsa and panta that typically defines Pahela Baishakh appeared missing in Chuadanga.
Economic pressure, frustration with the quality of hilsa or changes in the new generation's eating habits, might be the reason behind the lack of interest in hilsa.
