Bogura: A traditional fish fair took place at Utholi Bazar in Shibganj upazila, continuing a celebration that coincides with the Nabanna festival. According to locals, this event has been a staple of the community for over 200 years, creating a vibrant atmosphere annually on Nabanna day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, traders from various districts arrived at the bazar with large fish the previous night. Fish sellers anticipate this day each year to showcase and sell fish caught from rivers, haors, and beels. Traders Ratan Mia, Pulak, and Shahidul noted that fish prices were slightly lower this year compared to last year, resulting in strong sales and a high number of buyers.
At the fair, rui fish was sold for Taka 600-700 per kg, katal for Taka 500-600 per kg, boal for Taka 550-650 per kg, and brigate for Taka 300-400 per kg. New potatoes, popular during Nabanna, were priced at Taka 300 to 400 per kg.
In addition to fish, the fair featured local sweet shops, toy shops, pitha stalls, and bamboo and rattan products. The fairground was bustling with people of all ages, contributing to a lively atmosphere.
Visitor Fazlul Karim commented, “This fair is a tradition of our area. Our fathers and grandfathers used to come; we have been coming since childhood. Now we are bringing our children so that they too can grow up seeing this tradition.” He explained that it is customary for locals to invite relatives to their homes during Nabanna, including daughters and sons-in-law.
While Utholi in Shibganj hosts the largest of these fish fairs, similar events occur on a smaller scale in Mokamtala and Mahasthan. However, some attendees expressed concerns about increased fees for parking and market rent. Bulbul Islam, the leaseholder of the fair committee, stated, “It costs us a lot to organize this Nabanna-centric event. That is why the fee has been charged at an appropriate rate.”