End of the Year Fair Concludes in Jessore
The Jessore end-of-the-year fair, showcasing various stalls, was graced by the presence of Nasimul Gani, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The fair, aimed at promoting the conservation and promotion of Jessore’s heritage date palm jaggery, concluded on Friday after a three-day event organized by the district administration.
A Gathering of Culture and Tradition
The fair attracted not only locals from Chaugacha but also residents from neighboring districts, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with the sweet aroma of jaggery. Participants from various fields, including local politicians, social workers, and cultural enthusiasts, came together to celebrate and partake in the event. The fair showcased high-quality jaggery and pottery, sparking interest among attendees.
Nasimul Gani emphasized the importance of creating demand and branding for date palm jaggery to ensure its marketability. He highlighted the need for continuous efforts to preserve and promote jaggery production in Jessore and surrounding areas. Gani also cited an example of a successful jaggery preservation project in Japan, encouraging investment and participation in similar initiatives in Jessore.
Urgent Need for Conservation
District Administrator Azharul Islam expressed concern about the declining demand for date palm jaggery and emphasized the importance of protecting this vital agricultural product. He called for renewed efforts to support and promote date palm cultivation to meet the growing demand for jaggery and its by-products.
The closing ceremony, chaired by Khulna Divisional Commissioner Firoz Sarkar, expressed gratitude to all participants, including senior officials from the Ministry of Education and Madrasa Education Division, as well as local law enforcement representatives. Awards were presented to top stallholders, recognizing their contribution to the fair’s success.
Community Engagement and Recognition
Among the attendees were Dr. M. Shaokat Ali, a former professor at Long Island University in the United States, and local leaders and officials from various organizations. The event also honored individuals from Sanchatdanga, Hoyatpur, and Rajapur for their outstanding contributions to the fair.
As the sun set on the Jessore fair, it left behind a legacy of cultural celebration and community engagement. The event’s success serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting traditional practices like date palm jaggery production and fostering a sense of pride in local heritage.
The Jessore fair was not just a gathering of stalls but a testament to the rich cultural tapestry and traditions that define the region. It showcased the spirit of collaboration and innovation needed to safeguard and promote age-old practices for future generations to cherish and uphold.
