
A rare hilsa fish weighing nearly two kilograms was sold for an impressive Tk 8,500 at a wholesale market in Daulatdia, Rajbari, ahead of the Bengali New Year festivities.
The prized fish, caught in the Padma River, was auctioned early Saturday morning at Halim Sardar’s wholesale market in the ghat area of Goalanda Upazila. Local fish trader Shahjahan Sheikh initially acquired the 1.8-kilogram hilsa for Tk 8,300 after winning the highest bid. He later sold it to a businessman from Kushtia, earning a modest profit of Tk 100 per kilogram.
“This is a Padma River hilsa—very rare these days,” said Shahjahan. “With Pohela Boishakh around the corner, the demand for high-quality hilsa is surging. There’s a niche group of buyers who specifically seek out large Padma hilsa to celebrate the New Year in style.”
Local fishermen and traders confirm that such sizable hilsa have become increasingly scarce, contributing to the high market value. The Padma hilsa, renowned for its unique flavor and texture, holds cultural and culinary significance in Bangladesh, especially during traditional celebrations.
As the Bengali New Year approaches, markets across the country are expected to see a sharp increase in demand for premium hilsa, often referred to as the “silver jewel” of Bangladeshi rivers.