As the much-awaited Magh Bihu approaches, the joy of indulging in traditional feasts may be dampened for many as the prices of essential delicacies, namely 'Chitol Maas' (Indian knifefish) and 'Haanh' (duck), have soared compared to the previous year.
In the wholesale markets, the fluctuating rates of 'Chitol Maas' are causing concern among both sellers and buyers.
Previously, a 2 to 3 kilo Chitol Maas was available at a reasonable ₹450/kg but the tides have turned, pushing the wholesale price up to ₹550-600/kg.
This surge has a ripple effect, with the retail market witnessing an even steeper rise, where the same fish can now cost anywhere from ₹1000 to ₹1400/kg.
Similarly, a fish which is bigger in size and weight (6-7kg) will cost up to ₹1800 in the retail markets.
What was anticipated to be a gastronomical delight for many is now turning into a financial burden, leaving the public grappling with increased expenses during the festive season.
However, the purchase of local 'Chitol Maas' will cost more in comparison to the imported ones in a margin of around ₹100. These fishes are brought in from places like Morigaon, Barpeta and Nalbari.
While speaking to GPlus, a member of Brihottor Guwahati Maas Besa Kina Somobay Samiti Limited said, "The fish is imported from states such as Kanpur, Lucknow, Kolkata, Delhi, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. We have a total of 50 trucks, especially for Bihu. Each truck contains 12000 kg of fish. Apart from Chitol, we have Aari, Biget, Rou, Bhokua, Borali, Pabho and Elish."
He added that the purchase date will begin from January 12 to 14 in the wholesale market located in the Betkuchi area of Lalung Gaon.
Wholesale rates for other fishes are as follows.
Aari: ₹700/kg
Borali: ₹700/kg
Elish: ₹1000-1300/kg
Pabho: ₹400-450/kg
Bhokua: ₹300-350/kg
Borali: ₹200-250/kg
Biget: ₹200-250/kg
Rou: ₹250-280/kg
The rates might differ depending on the size and weight of each fish.
Buddhodeb Das, a fish vendor from Khepinijal while sharing with GPlus said, "We need to set prices for profit. There has been a hike and the transportation charges add on to it. I'm sure few consumers will hesitate to purchase. But, it is just the market structure."
Similarly, the cost of 'Haanh', a key component in many festive dishes, has witnessed an abnormal hike in the wholesale market. A pair of ducks, once priced between Rs 1000 to Rs 1200, now demands a hefty ₹1200 to ₹1400.
This unexpected rise in prices is likely to put a strain on the pockets of those who eagerly await the festivities, especially impacting those who are economically confined.
When GPlus visited the market to inquire about the rates of duck, Ramila Basumatary, a vendor from Ulubari said, "I am selling ducks at ₹1200 a pair. This is from our village in Baksa. There are other vendors who sell it for ₹1700 – ₹1800 a pair. As bihu is approaching the rates will indeed fluctuate."
Mostly, 'haanh' is brought in from places like Boko, Chaygaon, Barpeta, Mangaldoi and Khetri. Usually, vans deliver the consignment to major markets and a few individual vendors personally transport it from the outskirts.
The surge in prices is not just an inconvenience; it's a significant blow to the cultural and traditional celebrations that define the essence of Magh/Bhogali Bihu.
Families that look forward to savouring these special dishes during the festival now find themselves facing a harsh reality—celebrating within budgetary constraints.
Local markets, usually brimming with excitement and anticipation during this time of the year, are now witnesses to a subdued atmosphere. The rising costs are affecting not only the consumers but also the sellers who are grappling with the challenge of maintaining a delicate balance between meeting their financial needs and keeping their products affordable for the public.
The reasons behind this sudden surge in prices are multifaceted. Factors such as changing weather patterns affecting fishing yields, increased transportation costs, and fluctuations in demand and supply dynamics all contribute to this unfortunate scenario.
The consequences of these price hikes, however, are felt most profoundly by those who were already facing economic challenges.
The economic strain caused by the rising costs of Chital Maas and Haanh is poised to redefine the way many families celebrate Magh/Bhogali Bihu.
What was once a time of joy, togetherness, and culinary indulgence is now overshadowed by concerns about managing finances. Families are forced to make difficult decisions about their festive menus, with the soaring prices of essential ingredients limiting their choices.
In order to ensure that the cultural and culinary traditions associated with Magh/Bhogali Bihu remain accessible to all segments of society, the authority should take note of the unorganised business of fish/meat and explore measures to alleviate the burden on the public.
