Pithas: Bangladesh's seasonal delicacies

Pitha (cake) is a part of life and culture of Bangladesh. But it is not a part of our daily menu. Most pithas are seasonal, especially prepared during the winter season as some ingredients in them are only available in this season. Other pithas are connected with harvest festivals like Nabanna and Poush Parban. Bengali families in rural parts of the country still entertain guests with freshly prepared pithas during winter. For nearly a decade in the urban areas of the country, a section of people from the poor income households have been preparing pithas and selling them at nominal prices. Mostly Bhapa and chitoi pitha are sold as street foods. Urbanites love them as snacks. Additionally, pitha festivals are organised by cultural organisations in cities and towns in winter. Dudh Puli, Teler Pitha, Ruti Pitha, Patishapta, Kolar-pitha (banana rice cake), Bibikhana pitha and other traditional pithas are mostly available in rural areas of the country. It is unknown to many people that pithas are also considered to be healthy by health experts. It is wonderful that while many traditions of the country have faded away with the passage of time, the pitha tradition is still here. As it is cherished by people of different generations, this is likely to be a part of Bangladeshi tradition in the long run as well.

Md. Zillur Rahaman

Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd,

Lalmohan Branch, Bhola.

[email protected]