The Bangla New Year 1432 is just around the corner, and with Pahela Baishakh only days away, preparations are in full swing. As part of the tradition, food-loving Bengalis are getting ready to indulge in the classic hilsa-panta feast. Ahead of the celebration, demand for hilsa fish has surged in Dhaka’s markets. Although prices have slightly dropped compared to before Eid, the festival demand has kept rates high.

At the capital’s Karwan Bazar, hilsa vendor Md. Shukur Ali said that hilsa catch from fishermen has been low, but increased supply of frozen hilsa before the New Year has led to a minor price drop. Still, due to high demand, prices remain steep.

Currently, one-kilogram hilsa is being sold for Tk 1,800–2,000. A 1.5-kg fish goes for around Tk 2,500, while hilsa weighing 1.3 kg is priced at Tk 2,200. Fish weighing 800–900 grams are selling for Tk 1,600–1,700, and smaller ones of 500–600 grams are priced at Tk 1,300–1,400.

Another seller, Hasib, confirmed the uptick in both sales and demand. He mentioned that hilsa from the Padma River is priced higher, exceeding Tk 2,000 per kg, while fish from other regions are available at slightly lower rates.

Buyers, too, have noted the price hike. One customer, Nabil, said Padma hilsa is almost unavailable in the market, and whatever is found is being sold at high prices. He added that hilsa from other areas lacks the same flavor, which is why Padma hilsa is more sought after. Another shopper, Arnob, shared that he plans to celebrate Pahela Baishakh with his family by enjoying panta with hilsa, despite the high market price.

Meanwhile, rice prices continue to rise as well. Miniket rice is selling for Tk 86–90 per kg, Atash for Tk 60–62, and Nazirshail for Tk 76–88. Polao rice is priced at Tk 116–118 per kg, adding to the overall pressure on consumers.