Dhaka: Once poverty-stricken, Marjina Begum has now become an icon for other poor and helpless women by becoming self-employed in the district town through her food business. Selling egg chops, pithas, and other food items, she has successfully turned her life around.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Marjina's small shop, located in front of the TNT intersection, attracts a steady flow of local customers every day from afternoon to night. Her offerings have become increasingly popular, with customers lining up for her 'Egg Chops' and a variety of seasonal pithas. As winter approaches, she has introduced new pitha varieties, including 'Pakan Pitha' and 'Chitai Pitha', appealing to customers of all ages and backgrounds.
Marjina, a resident of Dakkshin Gorasthan Para, has been running this shop for the last 20 years. With the winter season's arrival, she has expanded her menu to include 'pithapuli', 'chitai pitha', 'pakana pitha', and other items. Her daily earnings range from Taka 4,000 to Taka 5,000, with a net profit of about Taka 700 to 800 after expenses.
Her business not only supports her but also eight family members. Marjina sells approximately 12 kg of piazhu, 50 egg chops, and 8 kg of chitai pitha daily. Each pakana pitha is sold for Taka 10, chitai pitha for Taka 6, egg chop for Taka 10, and piazhu for Taka 5.
Marjina's younger sister and daughters assist her in the shop, which operates from 3 pm to 10 pm. The customer influx peaks in the evening, and many travel from afar to enjoy her dishes. Marjina begins her day early, purchasing ingredients and preparing for the day's business.
Customer Rakib Hasan remarked on the shop's popularity, noting the exceptional taste of the pithas and chops. Despite the shop's small size, it has made a significant impact in the city, drawing people from various areas, including Jafarpur, to savor Marjina's offerings.