Special Correspondent, BusinessToday24
From Anwara (Chattogram):
When one hears the name Gahira, the salty scent of the sea breeze seems to fill the heart almost instantly. Nestled in Anwara Upazila of Chattogram, Gahira has earned a distinctive place for a particular treasure — the Loitta fish (commonly known as Bombay duck) — a name that continues to evoke emotion and nostalgia among seafood lovers across Bangladesh and beyond.
At the confluence of the Karnaphuli River and the Bay of Bengal, Gahira boasts a unique fishing tradition centered around the abundance of Loitta fish. Every day at dawn, as the first rays of sunlight kiss the shores, the village comes alive. Fishermen set out in their boats, casting nets into the sparkling waters, while the unmistakable aroma of freshly caught Loitta fills the air.
Known for its tender flesh, delicate flavor, and distinct aroma, Gahira’s Loitta fish is a delicacy cherished not only in Chattogram but across the country. In fact, its fame has crossed national borders, finding admirers in expatriate Bangladeshi communities worldwide — particularly when prepared as shutki (sun-dried fish).
Once caught, the fish undergoes a meticulous drying process, which is almost an art form in itself.
Rowshan Ara Begum, a seasoned shutki worker, explains,”Drying Loitta demands extreme care. If not handled properly, the fish spoils. We clean them carefully, sun-dry them patiently, and store them securely. This is our life’s work.”
Ismail Majhi, another worker who has been in the trade since childhood, adds,”I grew up helping my father and uncles make shutki. Gahira’s Loitta has a unique flavor and aroma. Once someone tastes it, they always come back for more.”
Men and women alike spend long hours under the blazing sun, working tirelessly to prepare the finest dried Loitta — a craft passed down through generations.
Today, Gahira’s Loitta fish travels far beyond the local markets. It is supplied to major markets in Chattogram city, Dhaka, and even exported to the Middle East and other parts of the world. Food experts highlight its nutritional value, noting that Loitta is rich in protein and offers an authentic taste of the sea — ideal for those seeking wholesome and flavorful seafood.
To the locals, Loitta fish represents far more than a source of food — it embodies pride, heritage, and livelihood. As several villagers proudly state,”Loitta is not just a meal; it is our identity.“
Indeed, within those simple words lies a deeper story — of a people whose lives, hopes, and histories are intricately woven with this humble fish.
For the fishermen of Gahira, Loitta sustains life itself. It pays for their children’s education, supports household expenses, and lights up festive celebrations. Every morning they brave the open waters, facing uncertainty, trusting that the sea will gift them enough to see another day.
For Gahira’s people, every form of Loitta — fresh, dried, or cooked — carries memories of family, community, and the enduring spirit of a coastal life. Even when sent as gifts to loved ones living abroad, Loitta serves as an invisible thread connecting distant hearts back to home.
Thus, when the people of Gahira say,”Loitta is our pride,“
they are not merely talking about a fish — they are speaking of their undying resilience, rich cultural heritage, and the soul of a community built upon the bounty of the sea.
