Amid riverfront beautification project, Uzanbazar fish Market prepares for Bihu sales with mixed hopes
As Magh Bihu approaches, the iconic Uzanbazar fish market, established in 1815, gears up for its busiest time of the year. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide variety of fresh fish, the market has been a focal point for thousands of Guwahatians who flock here on Uruka morning to buy fish for the traditional feast. This year, however, the market faces a new challenge—reduced space due to the ongoing riverfront beautification project along the Brahmaputra, raising serious concerns among traders about their ability to manage the anticipated crowd and maintain the festive spirit.
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Uzanbazar fish market is more than just a trading hub—it is a historic landmark and an integral part of Guwahati’s cultural fabric. For over 200 years, fish traders from nearby districts like Morigaon, Nalbari, Barpeta, and Darrang have been bringing fresh river fish to this market.
On Uruka, the eve of Magh Bihu, the market transforms into a bustling hub of activity. Fish sellers, arriving as early as 3 am, prepare their stalls for thousands of buyers who arrive from various parts of the city. A wide variety of fish, including Rohu, Katla, and the much-coveted Chitol, are sold in large quantities, with sales running into several lakhs.
Talking to GPlus, Ranjit Das, a fish trader from Nalbari, who has been coming to the market for over 30 years said, “This market has seen generations of traders and buyers. Uruka morning is the busiest time of the year for us. We sell more fish on this single day than in an entire month."
This year, traders are apprehensive about the reduced space due to the riverfront beautification project. The ongoing construction work has taken up a significant portion of the market’s traditional area, leading to concerns about overcrowding and safety during peak hours.
“We are worried about how things will go this year. The space is much less compared to previous years, and managing the crowd will be difficult. In a meeting with the authorities, we have raised these concerns and they said they will discuss for security arrangements. But we will only know how it goes on the day,” a member of the Uzanbazar Fish Market Committee told GPlus.
The member also added, “The west side of the market has been designated for wholesale traders this year. Around 35 wholesalers will participate, while over 2,000 small traders from various districts are expected to join for direct sales and auctions."
“Coming to Uzanbazar on Uruka morning has been a family tradition for years. The atmosphere is unique, and we enjoy bargaining with the traders. Even if the prices are high, we will still come because it’s part of our celebration,” said Priyanka Sharma, a resident of Panbazar.
However, some buyers are concerned about the reduced space and its impact on the market’s functioning. “The market is always crowded during Bihu. With less space this year, it might be chaotic. I hope the authorities have made proper arrangements,” said another buyer from Uzanbazar.
Despite the challenges, traders remain hopeful about the season’s sales. Many believe that the strong bond people share with the market will draw crowds as usual.
“We have faced many challenges over the years, but the people of Guwahati always come to support us during Bihu. We are prepared to manage the situation and ensure that everyone gets what they need for their celebrations,” another veteran trader told GPlus.
Traders are also banking on the festival’s emotional significance to drive sales. For most Assamese families, the Bihu feast is incomplete without fish, making it an essential purchase regardless of price or inconvenience.
Apart from fish, Uzanbazar market also hosts traders selling locally grown vegetables, ducks, and traditional Bihu items. Fresh greens, bamboo shoots, and local herbs are popular among buyers preparing for the festive meal.
While the immediate concern is managing this year’s Bihu sales, the long-term future of the Uzanbazar fish market remains uncertain. The riverfront beautification project aims to transform the area into a modern recreational space, raising questions about the market’s place in the city’s evolving landscape.
“We understand that development is necessary, but it should not come at the cost of our heritage. This market is part of Guwahati’s identity. We hope the authorities will find a way to preserve it while carrying out their plans,” a senior member of the traders’ association told GPlus.
As Uzanbazar fish market gears up for another Bihu season, it stands at a crossroads—caught between the pressures of modernisation and the need to preserve a centuries-old tradition. While this year’s sales will be a test of its resilience, the market’s enduring spirit and the strong community support it enjoys suggest that it will continue to thrive, no matter the odds.
For now, both traders and buyers are ready to brave the challenges and celebrate the festival with the same zeal as always—because, for the people of Guwahati, Uzanbazar fish market is more than just a place to buy fish; it is a symbol of their shared heritage and festive joy.
