Dhaka: With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, the streets of Old Dhaka’s historic Chawkbazar have once again come alive with the anticipation of iftar. After hours of fasting, the aroma, colours, and vibrant energy of this centuries-old market bring smiles to the faces of thousands of devotees, offering not only food but a celebration of culture and tradition.
A Feast of Flavours and Traditions
Every evening during Ramadan, Chawkbazar attracts a large crowd, undeterred by the often chaotic traffic and narrow lanes. The market is renowned for its diverse array of iftar delicacies, including the legendary “Boro Baper Polao”, succulent chicken kebabs, morog polao, beef halim, and the refreshing pista sharbat. These traditional offerings are more than just food; they evoke nostalgia, communal warmth, and a link to the city’s rich culinary heritage.
A glimpse at the most popular iftar items at Chawkbazar:
| Item | Speciality |
|---|---|
| Morog Polao | Rice cooked with spices and ghee, a Ramadan staple |
| Beef Kebab | Spiced and grilled to perfection |
| Chicken Roast | Fried with traditional Kashmiri spices |
| Beef Halim | Classic slow-cooked porridge-like delicacy |
| Nihari | Meat and spices simmered into a hearty stew |
| Borhani | Tangy-sweet drink to quench thirst |
| Doi Bora | Crispy lentil fritters served with yogurt |
| Shahi Jilapi | Traditional syrup-soaked sweet made with ghee |
Generations Upholding Culinary Heritage
The true charm of Chawkbazar lies in its vendors, many of whom have been preserving family traditions for generations. Mohammad Siraj Mia, who has been selling jhalmuri for over 50 years, transforms his stall each Ramadan to offer an array of iftar treats. “This business has been passed down from our forefathers. It’s not just about profit—it’s about keeping tradition alive,” he says. His daily sales during Ramadan now reach 60,000–70,000 taka.
Another vendor, Shafiqul Islam, echoes this sentiment: “Selling iftar is more than business; it defines our identity. We strive to maintain the legacy of our ancestors.”
From Mughal Roots to Modern Celebrations
Vendors and locals alike trace the tradition of Chawkbazar’s iftar back to the Mughal era. While the variety and scale of offerings have evolved over time, the essence of the market—its taste, culture, and festive atmosphere—remains intact.
Every evening, the bustling lanes of Chawkbazar fill with the fragrance of spices, the sparkle of lights, and the joyful chatter of families. It is more than a food market; it is a living testament to Dhaka’s Ramadan culture, a space where culinary art, tradition, and community come together in a vibrant celebration.