A five-day fair celebrating the Baisabi Festival, showcasing the rich traditions of Khagrachhari’s indigenous communities, has begun.
The festival’s name reflects the combined heritage of three ethnic groups-Baisu of the Tripura community, Shangrai of the Marma community and Jijhu of the Chakma community.
The fair was inaugurated on Thursday at the Surya Shikha Club ground in Mahajan Para by Khagrachhari Hill Zila Parishad Chairman Shefalika Tripura. The event has been organised by local women entrepreneurs.
Numerous stalls have been set up featuring traditional handwoven garments such as pinon-hadi, hand-made jewelry, cosmetics, and clothing for men, alongside a variety of indigenous foods including the traditional dish Pajan. Visitors can find a wide range of products in one place ahead of the festival season.
Convener of the organising committee Kongkana Chakma said the fair aims to support local women entrepreneurs while meeting the increased demand for traditional items before the festival. Shoppers benefit from the diversity of stalls offering both cultural attire and everyday goods, she added.
Chairman Shefalika Tripura highlighted that the arrival of the Bengali month of Chaitra traditionally signals the festive atmosphere of Baisabi in the hill districts. Such fairs and cultural activities are commonly held across the region during this time and praised the initiative taken by local women entrepreneurs, she added.
The fair, organised under the banner of Khagrachhari Egattur Women Entrepreneurs, will continue until 24 March.
