Jhenaidah: With winter intensifying even before the end of Agrahayan, farmers across the villages of Jhenaidah have become busy tapping date palm trees and collecting date palm sap-known locally as khejur rosh. From this sap, they are producing the much-loved Nolen Gur, a winter delicacy cherished across Bangladesh for its distinct fragrance, color, and taste.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, locals say the process begins with tapping the date palm trees at the start of the season. The sap collected within the first two to three weeks carries a unique aroma, making it ideal for producing Nolen Gur. As a result, this early-season molasses remains in high demand nationwide. After collecting sap in earthen pots hung from the trees overnight, they return home to boil it in large vessels. In many households, women lead the laborious task of boiling the sap, assisted by men. The sap thickens gradually, turning a sweet reddish-brown as it transforms into Nolen Gur.
Farmers said the tradition remains central to rural life. Khalilur Rahman, a farmer from Sadar upazila, highlighted the special scent of the sap collected in the first two to three weeks, making the Nolen Gur highly demanded and delicious. Najera Khatun added that although making jaggery is difficult, it is essential for many families. It allows them to prepare pitha throughout the year without needing extra sugar, preserving a traditional food for farming families.
Gachi (juice collector) Zakir Hossain expressed concerns over the declining number of date palm trees due to their use as fuel for brick kilns. He also pointed out that unfair pricing by middlemen discourages sap collection and molasses production. He urged the government to take special initiatives to preserve the tradition.
Senior social worker M. Raihan emphasized the hardships faced by date palm farmers, who work tirelessly even in severe winter conditions. Despite their hard work, no initiatives have been taken to improve their livelihoods. He suggested that controlling the syndicate of traders could help farmers secure fair prices.
District Agricultural Extension Department Deputy Director Md. Kamruzzaman stated that Jhenaidah produces around 72 metric tons of date molasses annually and expects good production this year. Farmers have received training in safe sap and molasses production, and the market prices are favorable, benefitting the farmers as demand for raw molasses exceeds supply.
Local producers and experts warned that without government and private support, the age-old tradition of Nolen Gur may continue to decline, despite its cultural significance and economic value.