As Durga Puja celebrations approach in West Bengal, the first shipment of the highly anticipated Padma Hilsa from Bangladesh has arrived in India. On Friday morning, approximately 45-50 tonnes of this prized fish were delivered to Howrah, signaling the start of a significant import just in time for the festive season.
This consignment is part of a broader export initiative by the Bangladeshi interim government, which plans to send a total of 2,420 tonnes of Hilsa to India. All shipments are expected to arrive by October 12, ensuring a sufficient supply during Durga Puja.
Currently, the wholesale price for Hilsa in Howrah’s fish market ranges from Rs 1,400 to Rs 1,600 per kilogram, with the fish being distributed to various retail markets in Kolkata and surrounding areas, including Howrah, Patipukur, Sealdah, and Siliguri.
Padma Hilsa, scientifically known as Tenualosa Ilisha, is renowned for its exquisite taste and is an essential component of Bengali cuisine, particularly during special occasions like Durga Puja, Poila Boisakh, and Jamai Soshti.
In July 2012, Bangladesh imposed a ban on Hilsa fish exports. However, since 2019, the country has permitted limited exports to India specifically for Durga Puja.
Syed Anwar Maqsood, Secretary of the Howrah Wholesale Fish Market Association, said that they had formally requested the interim Bangladeshi government to allow Hilsa imports for the festival. Despite some delays, the fish has arrived just in time for the celebrations.
“The enthusiasm for Padma Hilsa from Bangladesh is unique here,” Maqsood remarked, expressing hope that prices may decrease slightly, as current rates are higher than in Bangladesh, where Hilsa is sold at lower prices. In Indian markets, smaller Hilsa weighing between 700 to 800 grams are priced between Rs 900 and Rs 1,000, while one-kilogram Hilsa is priced between Rs 1,400 and Rs 1,500.
Maqsood emphasized the importance of importing as much Hilsa as possible before the fishing ban in Bangladesh takes effect. Starting October 13, a 22-day fishing ban will limit the availability of Hilsa. The demand for Padma Hilsa in Bengal remains consistently high, but the distinct taste of the fish from Bangladesh makes it particularly sought after.
“The taste of Padma Hilsa is unmatched, which is why people here are so passionate about it,” Maqsood explained.
The logistics for distributing the fish are extensive. According to Maqsood, bulk shipments are managed by various suppliers who then distribute the fish to states with high demand. Cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Delhi receive significant quantities of Hilsa during the festive season. Maqsood intends to request the Bangladeshi government to relax the export ban to allow for year-round Hilsa supply.
With the arrival of Padma Hilsa, the festive spirit in West Bengal is sure to intensify as locals and visitors alike indulge in this seasonal delicacy during one of the region’s most cherished festivals.
