Soumi Goswami
If you have grown up in Bengal, there’s one thing that binds the people of Kolkata and all Bengalis across the universe together. The love for food! The life of a Bengali is incomplete without hearing “ami maach khabe” from a Non-Bengali or other state friends. A meal in Kolkata is not considered complete without Maach! Top these with desserts like Misti Doi and Rashogolla! Oh! It’s Turu Lobbb!
The History of Hilsa!
Hilsa traveled to Bengal from Bangladesh along with the millions of Bangla migrants. Therefore, not just the team of East Bengal, but Hilsa too was a gift of the Bangals to Kolkata! Not to say the least, the versatility of types of fishes eaten in the state is incredible, but Hilsa is an emotion.
Bhapa, Bhaja, and Jhol- The bridge between Ghoti and Baati!
A true Hilsa lover knows how to savor Ilish in many ways possible. Be it Ilish Bhapa packed with the punch of shorshe or plain oil fry or just a plain kalonji curry. Because it is not just any other fish! It is a Hilsa. Team East Bengal (Baati) Vs Mohun Bagan (Ghoti) debate will continue for times immemorial, but all of them will savor Hilsa at the end of the day together.
There is also a Hilsa food festival every year, that Bengal celebrates through its delicious preparations of the fish served in many high-end restaurants.
It’s That Time of The Year!
Hilsa makes its heroic entry in the fish markets in June, every year. Although, the most priced fish of Kolkata is made available through the cold storages around the year. But, the taste of fresh Hilsa is unforgettable. This is because it is quite a difficult catch.
Padma Ilish
The fish breed is believed to travel the fresh waters from the sea in June to September so that it can breed. That’s when the fishing season for Ilish and its export begins. It ranges from 1800 to 2700 per kilogram. Hilsa is sourced from rivers like Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna. But the most awaited one is the variety sourced from river Padma in Bangladesh. Bengalis believe that the aroma of Padma Ilish crosses all levels of supremacy.
Good News for all Bongs Amidst the Pandemic
With news of the Hilsa trade being in business again and Hilsa fishes adorning the markets, Bengalis have finally found something to rejoice in 2020. This year too, the government has made the availability of Hilsa possible amidst the pandemic by taking certain measures.
So, enjoy Hilsa as you like it!
