As the Gangasagar Mela festivities drew to a close, Subhodip, a young fisherman with weathered hands, eagerly cast off the lines from his boat, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. The 10-day hiatus imposed by the festival finally ended, and Subhodip was ready to return to his daily routine.

Gangasagar Mela held in Sagar Island, in the South 24 Parganas district, is situated over 100 km from Kolkata. Sagar Island, shaped by the Bay of Bengal’s turbulent tides, is famous for fish, particularly the dried “shutki” that adds a distinctive flavor to Bengali cuisine.

For centuries, drying fish has been an integral part of the people on the Sagar Island. This time-honored tradition, rooted in necessity, has provided a reliable source of sustenance during the lean months, becoming an essential part of the people.

However, for weeks, the beaches were devoid of the characteristic smell of the dry fish, with regard to the festival preparations.

Hafiz Ali Laskar, a fisherman noted, “While the Sagar Mela, a celebration of faith and tradition, may cast a shadow on our fishing livelihoods, it also brings significant business opportunities for many residents. As a result, our fishing community chooses not to protest.”
“While the Mela brings happiness to many, for us fishermen time of enforced rest – no drying, no selling, and no income,” said Muktarul Bibi.

Echoing similar concerns, Panchu Gopal Dulai, a seasoned fish trader, said, “We invest heavily in our ventures.” Pointing to his fleet of boats, he said, “We spend months at sea, laden with supplies, chasing elusive schools of fish. The Mela disrupts this delicate balance, costing us precious time and potential income.”

Moumita Jana reflected on the shifting landscape. “In the past, the disruption was brief, just a few days,” she said, adding, “But now, the extended duration of the Mela has a significant impact on our livelihoods.”

Meanwhile, talking about the dry fish market, Syed Anwar Maqsood, secretary of the Fish Importer’s Association, said, “Dry fish is not perishable so they are always prepared for dry months and work accordingly to fill the gap. Dry market is majorly consumed in Bangladesh, Agartala, Siliguri and North East side.”