Ahead of Durga Puja celebrations in West Bengal, the first shipment of the much-anticipated Padma Hilsa from Bangladesh has arrived in India. On Friday morning, around 45-50 tonnes of this prized fish were delivered to Howrah, marking the start of a significant import just in time for the festive season.
The consignment is part of a larger export plan by the Bangladeshi interim government, which aims to send a total of 2,420 tonnes of Hilsa to India. All consignments are expected to arrive by October 12, ensuring ample supply during the Durga Puja period. The current wholesale price for Hilsa in Howrah's fish market ranges between Rs 1,400 and Rs 1,600 per kilogram, with the fish being distributed to various retail markets in and around Kolkata, including Howrah, Patipukur, Sealdah, and Siliguri.
Padma hilsa, also known as Tenualosa Ilisha, is a type of hilsa fish that is found in Bangladesh and is considered to be the tastiest of all hilsa varieties. It is a key part of Bengali cuisine and is often eaten during special occasions, such as Durga Puja, Poila Boisakh, and Jamai Soshti.
Limited exports allowed during Durga Puja
Bangladesh had banned the export of Hilsa fish back in July 2012. However, starting in 2019, the country has granted special permission for limited exports to India during Durga Puja. Syed Anwar Maqsood, Secretary of the Howrah Wholesale Fish Market Association, revealed that, as in previous years, they had formally requested the interim Bangladeshi government to allow the import of Hilsa for the festival. Despite some delays, the fish has arrived just in time for the festivities.
"The people here have a unique enthusiasm for Padma Hilsa from Bangladesh," Maqsood noted, highlighting the excitement surrounding the fish’s arrival. He also expressed hope that prices may decrease slightly, as the current rates are higher than those in Bangladesh, where Hilsa is sold at a lower cost. In Indian markets, smaller Hilsa weighing between 700 to 800 grams is priced between Rs 900 and Rs 1,000, while the one-kilogram Hilsa fetches Rs 1,400 to Rs 1,500.
Urgency Before Fishing Ban
Maqsood stressed the need to import as much Hilsa as possible before the fishing ban takes effect in Bangladesh. From October 13, a 22-day fishing ban will be imposed, making the availability of Hilsa limited. The demand for Padma Hilsa in Bengal is always high, but the unique taste of the fish from Bangladesh makes it even more sought-after.
“The taste of Padma Hilsa is unmatched, which is why people here are so passionate about it,” Maqsood explained.
High Demand Across India
The logistics involved in distributing the fish are extensive. According to Maqsood, the bulk shipments are handled by various suppliers who then distribute the fish to states where it’s in high demand. Cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Delhi receive large quantities of Hilsa during the festive season. Maqsood urged consumers to relish the fish during Durga Puja and expressed his intent to request the Bangladeshi government to relax the export ban so that Hilsa can be supplied throughout the year.
With the arrival of Padma Hilsa, the festive spirit in West Bengal is sure to heighten, as locals and visitors alike enjoy this seasonal delicacy during one of the region's most cherished festivals.
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