Traditional dried fish fair held in Brahmanbaria to celebrate Pahela Baishakh

Brahmanbaria's Nasirnagar came alive with festivities as the traditional two-day dried fish fair 'Shutki Mela' was held to mark Pahela Baishakh.

The centuries-old fair kicked off at the grounds of Kulikunda Uttar Government Primary School in the Sadar union of Nasirnagar yesterday (14 April).

As the event drew large crowds and created a festive atmosphere in the surrounding area, organisers and traders expect transactions worth nearly Tk50 lakh over the course of the fair. 

However, one notable change in recent years is the gradual disappearance of the age-old bartering system. Due to rising prices, traders are no longer exchanging dried fish for goods as they once did.

A wide variety of dried fish, both freshwater and marine, were on display, including species like 'Loitta', 'Tengra', 'Baim', 'Shol', 'Gojar', 'Goinna', 'Boal', and 'Puti'. Prices ranged from Tk500 to Tk2,000 per kilogram depending on the size and type. Despite some mixed reactions to pricing, both buyers and sellers expressed satisfaction with the fair.

Around 150 stalls were set up as traders traveled from different regions, including Chattogram and Cox's Bazar, to take part in the fair. Alongside the dried fish market, a traditional fair featuring various local handicrafts and folk products also attracted attendees.

Khadeja Akter, a resident of Kulikunda village, said she has been visiting the dry fish fair since childhood. 

"The fair offers a diverse selection of dried fish at prices slightly lower than the regular market. It creates a joyful atmosphere for two whole days, and many people invite relatives to join the celebration," she said. 

Trader Sajal Das, who came from Habiganj, said he has been participating in the fair for several years. 

"Sales are usually good here. Smaller fish varieties are cheaper, but larger ones, especially imported types, are more expensive," he added.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, the police have implemented tight security measures. 

Nasirnagar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md Khairul Alam said sufficient police personnel have been deployed in and around the fairgrounds to prevent any untoward incidents or unlawful activities.