A massive bull named “Zamindar”, weighing approximately 1,300 kilograms, has become a major attraction ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha cattle markets in Bangladesh. The exceptionally large animal, bred in a rural farm in Jamalpur, is now drawing daily crowds of curious visitors even before it is taken to the market.
The bull has been raised at the farm of cattle rearer Rafiqur Islam in the Mahmudpur area of Melandaha upazila. According to the farmer, Zamindar is a Fijian breed and has been nurtured with meticulous care since birth, which occurred in a barn roughly four years ago. Over time, it has grown into one of the largest cattle in the region, both in size and weight.
Visitors and locals alike have been flocking to the farm to catch a glimpse of the animal, which has developed a reputation for unusual responsiveness. Reportedly, it reacts to commands, responds to calls, and even follows simple instructions such as showing its teeth, adding to its local popularity.
Rafiqur Islam explained that Zamindar’s upkeep requires significant daily expenditure, averaging around 2,000 taka. The diet is carefully curated and includes fresh bananas, duck eggs, indigenous grass, maize, and wheat bran. The animal is also bathed regularly with shampoo, reflecting the unusually high level of care it receives. The farmer emphasised that the bull refuses to eat stale food and prefers only fresh feed, which influenced its royal name.
Estimated Daily Maintenance of Zamindar
| Category | Details | Estimated Cost (BDT) |
|---|---|---|
| Feed | Banana, grass, maize, bran, eggs | 1,500 |
| Care & hygiene | Bathing, grooming, supplements | 300 |
| Miscellaneous care | Handling and shelter maintenance | 200 |
| Total | 2,000 |
The farmer revealed that an offer of 620,000 taka was made last year, but he chose not to sell, hoping for a higher valuation this season. He has now indicated willingness to sell if a favourable price is offered ahead of Eid.
Rafiqur’s wife, Rozina Begum, said the animal has been raised like a member of the family, with everyone contributing to its care. She expressed hope that a good sale price would bring financial stability to the household.
Local resident Abdul Latif noted that such a large animal had never been seen in the area before. He added that although the farmer is of modest means, he has taken great care in raising the bull, and a good sale could significantly improve his livelihood.
Officials from the Department of Livestock Services in Jamalpur stated that the animal is being monitored and guidance is being provided to ensure proper care. They also highlighted that online platforms are available for cattle sales alongside traditional markets.
Authorities estimate that this year the district has over 107,000 cattle ready for Eid-ul-Azha, against a local demand of around 82,000, with surplus animals expected to be distributed to other parts of the country.