This surge in production costs has rippled into the Bogura reail market, impacting prices photo: Messenger
The white vermicelli (locally known as semei), crafted in Bogura is not only popular locally but also in high demand across the country. However, this year, the dynamics have shifted due to various factors, including an increase in the price of flour and other ingredients.
As Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, the air in Bogura becomes infused with the sweet aroma of thin white vermicelli. This surge in production costs has rippled into the retail market, impacting prices. Additionally, the sale of thin vermicelli has also commenced in different markets of the city.
Despite the demand, challenges loom over the vermicelli industry. Frequent load shedding, rising labor wages, and material costs have squeezed profit margins, especially in comparison to the previous year. The COVID-19 pandemic has also cast a shadow, causing a slowdown in business over the past two years.
In Bogura, the heart of vermicelli production beats in areas like Brindabanpara, Bejora, Nishchintpur, and Palsha. Artisans in these regions have been toiling tirelessly in preparation for Eid-ul-Fitr and the fasting month of Ramadan. From flour milling to vermicelli making and drying, each artisan plays a crucial role in the production process.
The seasonal nature of this trade means that many workers, especially women, engage in vermicelli production only during Ramadan. These workers, numbering in the thousands, dedicate themselves to the craft, often working day and night to meet demand.
Shafiqul Islam, a factory manager in Dhakant, highlights the widespread demand for Bogura's vermicelli outside the district. Despite the increased production costs, wholesale prices remain competitive at Tk 70 per kg. However, in the retail market, prices have risen to Tk 90-100 per kg.
For workers like Zarina Begum, the daily grind of vermicelli-making during Ramadan is a familiar routine. Earning Tk 350 per day, they diligently carry out their tasks, sometimes working through the night to ensure timely production.
Kafela Begum and Sahida Akhtar, artisans in Subgram, emphasize the intensity of their work leading up to Eid. With vermicelli being produced daily from dawn till dusk, they strive to fulfill orders from different parts of the country.
Meanwhile, Shahidul Islam Pashari, proprietor of Pashari Traders, observes a surge in sales of laccha vermicelli and kitchen vermicelli since the onset of Ramadan. However, the increase in prices of other products has led to a slight uptick in the price of vermicelli.
Mafuzul Islam Raj, Vice President of Bogura Chamber of Commerce and Industries, sheds light on the longstanding tradition of vermicelli production in the district. With over two hundred factories contributing to the production, Bogura's white vermicelli remains a sought-after delicacy nationwide.
This small district in Bangladesh is renowned for its vermicelli production, with over two hundred factories bustling with activity during this time of the year.
Despite the challenges, the dedication of its artisans ensures that the sweet aroma of vermicelli continues to enchant palates far and wide, making Eid-ul-Fitr a truly joyous occasion for all.
Messenger/Faria
