Natore:The traditional sweet known as Kachagolla, with a rich history dating back 250 years, is experiencing a surge in popularity both nationally and internationally. Originating from the Lalbazar area of Natore, this delicacy has crossed national borders, gaining recognition and demand in regions such as the Middle East, Europe, and America.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the sweet's popularity has been bolstered by its recent Geographical Indication (GI) recognition, which has increased the trend of sending Kachagolla abroad. Sweetmeat shops in Natore are currently producing between 600 to 700 kilograms of Kachagolla daily, with the market value exceeding Taka four lakh per day.
The Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) under the Ministry of Industries officially recognized Natore's Kachagolla as the 17th GI product of Bangladesh on August 8, 2023. This recognition secures the commercial rights of Kachagolla for Bangladesh in the international market, protecting its intellectual property and geographical ownership. The sweet traces its origins to around 1760 during the reign of Rani Bhabani, a ruler of Natore, and has since become a staple in the region's cultural heritage.
The production process of Kachagolla involves pure cow's milk chhana and sugar, with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The sweet's unique preparation method and its historical significance have contributed to its enduring appeal. Despite its popularity, challenges such as the rising cost of cattle feed and milk, as well as technical limitations in packaging and preservation, pose obstacles to its direct commercial export.
Local authorities, including the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection and the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority, are actively monitoring the quality of Kachagolla through regular inspections and sample testing. Efforts are also being made to maintain the sweet's reputation and quality, with local producers and traders committed to upholding traditional methods of production.
The district administration, led by Natore Deputy Commissioner Mst Sumoni Akter, is actively involved in preserving the heritage and quality of Kachagolla, conducting motivational meetings with producers and traders and implementing measures to prevent adulteration. The GI recognition is expected to further enhance the branding and demand for Kachagolla, both domestically and internationally.