Khulna: A two-day pitha utsab (cake festival) commenced at the premises of the Bangladesh Shishu Academy (BSA) district office to celebrate the “Tarunner Utsav.”
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the festival is organized jointly by the District Administration, BSA, Department of Women Affairs, and Jatiya Mohila Sangstha. The event aims to familiarize the public with various types of pitha, a traditional delicacy, featuring recipes from different areas of the district that have been passed down through generations.
The opening ceremony was graced by Commissioner of Khulna Division Firoj Sarker as the chief guest, with Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Saiful Islam presiding over the event. Additional Deputy Commissioner Sadia Afrin and District Children Affairs Officer Saddam Hossain also addressed the gathering.
Commissioner Firoj Sarker emphasized the importance of promoting pithas not only as part of tradition but also as a food item. He highlighted the research being conducted during the festival to identify pithas unique to various parts of the country. The festival aims to promote pithas as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and uphold the geographical indication of local pithas.
The inaugural ceremony featured activities such as tricks with sticks, dance recitals, and other performances. The festival showcases over 50 stalls, including varieties like patishapta pitha, Pakon pitha, chitoi pitha, bhapa pitha, jamai pitha, and Andhosa pitha, popular across different areas of the district.
In addition, Commissioner Firoj Sarker distributed prizes to winners of an arts competition held as part of the “Tarunner Utsab.”