Thinking of Bangladesh often brings to mind Jamdani saris and Hilsa fish, so it came as no surprise when Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, M. Riaz Hamidullah, celebrated both.
The events took place on two separate occasions—one at the Crafts Museum in Delhi and the other at the High Commissioner’sOffice complex. The first occasion was attended by dignitaries like Mafazar Ali and his wife Meera, and architectural restorer and designer Sunita Kohli, while the second was attended by those eagerly awaiting the hilsa fish, which Hamidullah had specially ordered for friends and well-wishers from Bangladesh.
In fact, guests witnessed how the fish was scaled, cut, and then cooked according to a delicious recipe. And of course, the Sandesh was also delicious, leaving everyone delighted.
Hilsa fish, or ilish maach, is the national fish of Bangladesh, and is even considered a “national pride” there. In India, it remains a favorite fish of Bengalis, although it is also popular in several other states, including Odisha, Tripura, and Assam. “The more bones there are, the tastier the fish,” Hamidullah said.
It’s an expensive fish. In the Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, it’s said, “One should even sell one’s mangalsutra to eat it.” In Bengal, it’s sometimes given as a traditional gift from the groom’s family to the bride’s family during wedding ceremonies. It’s considered auspicious and a symbol of happiness and a prosperous future. While this tradition continues in Bangladesh, the hilsa is rapidly being replaced by the rohu fish in West Bengal, India, as it is no longer affordable or readily available.
As for saris, the exhibition included precious 150-year-old specimens, offering a glimpse into their history and significance. The works and weaves of national award-winning artisans were on display, showcasing traditional designs such as floral motifs, nets, and diagonal patterns. The Jamdani saris are said to “wear it and lose yourself in it.”
It’s about a flower and its vase. Its name is derived from two Persian words: “jam” meaning flower and “dani” meaning vase. This name perfectly encapsulates the intricate floral designs of Jamdani and the delicacy of the weaving on the fabric.
The story of Jamdani sarees is equally fascinating from a historical perspective. Jamdani sarees date back to ancient times, dating back approximately 2000 years. Originating in Dhaka, these sarees are still an integral part of modern Bangladesh. Dhaka, once a major textile production center, embodies this fascinating history of Jamdani sarees. It is here that Jamdani fabrics took deep roots—an endeavor that reflects hard work and dedication, as each saree can sometimes take six months to three years or even more to weave.
Jamdani sarees come in many varieties, the most popular being Dhakai, Khadi, and Bengali Jamdani. The names themselves speak for themselves: Dhakai sarees are native to Dhaka, Bengali sarees are from Bengal, and Khadi is organic in origin. Hazar Buti is considered the most famous of these Jamdani sarees.
Had it not been for this chance conversation between the High Commissioner and Sunita Kohli, this exhibition might never have been held here. In Kohli’s words, it was “poetry bound in threads.” Hamidullah wasted no time in turning the idea into reality. “It was born out of a chance moment,” he said, unconcealed by his passion for the craft that is Bangladesh’s most famous weaving.
Hamidullah is no stranger to India, nor is India unfamiliar to him. He had previously visited as a student. In fact, given the choice between India and the United States, he chose India and returned years later as Bangladesh’s High Commissioner. He also served in the High Commissioner’s office in 2003. So, when he says, “I want to eat at a truck driver’s eatery, not a fancy, air-conditioned eatery,” it’s no surprise. “I want to feel the real heat and dust, and eat golgappas on the roadside,” he says. Hamidullah also remembers eating maize bread and radish greens on the highway while returning from Fatehpur Sikri. “Nothing compares to that.” If asked if he would replace it with hilsa, he replies: “Aha… hilsa is a different story.” Like the rains in Dhaka, which he deeply misses while away from home.
