Dinajpur: A 3-day Entrepreneur Fair and Pitha Festival, jointly organized by the district administration and the Department of Women Affairs, was inaugurated on Friday night at the Lok Bhaban ground in the district town. Deputy Commissioner Md. Rafiqul Islam officially opened the festival at 9 pm as the chief guest.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event brings together voluntary women’s organizations and registered entrepreneurs under the District Women Affairs Department to celebrate traditional Bengali winter delicacies. Md. Riaz Uddin, Deputy Director (Deputy Secretary) of the Local Government Department, presided over the event.
During his speech, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized the cultural significance of the Pitha festival in rural areas, particularly during the month of Agrahayan. He noted, “In the winter season, every rural household celebrates with various types of Pitha. Although many traditions have faded with time, the long-standing Pitha festival of rural Bengal must be preserved.” He also expressed hope that the fair would draw visitors from all backgrounds, including the younger generation, to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Among those who spoke at the event were Md. Morshed Ali Khan, Deputy Director of the District Women’s Affairs Department, and Md. Nazmul Hasan, District Officer of the National Women’s Organization. A total of 32 stalls have been set up by women entrepreneurs, offering a variety of traditional Pitha items.
According to the organizers, the 3-day Pitha Mela will remain open daily from afternoon until 11:30 pm.