Hilsa Gets Costly. Why The Fish Is So Revered

The price of Hilsa fish, a delicacy highly prized by Bengali food lovers, has surged dramatically. On popular online supermarkets, a 900-gram Bengali Hilsa is currently priced at ₹1,899. This spike in cost has prompted many to wonder why Hilsa, also known as Ilish, is so expensive. The size of a Hilsa determines its per kg price. The bigger the size of the fish, the more it will cost per kilo.

Factors Behind the High Price of Hilsa

1. Scarcity and Demand: Once abundant in the Bay of Bengal, Hilsa populations have dwindled due to overfishing and increased demand. This scarcity has driven up prices significantly. The fish's limited availability during specific seasons further fuels its high cost.

2. Seasonality: Hilsa is only available for a few months each year, adding to its exclusivity and desirability. Its seasonal nature makes it a sought-after treat, especially during peak times like Durga Pujo and weddings.

3. Culinary Versatility: Hilsa is valued for its unique flavor and soft texture, making it a versatile ingredient in various culinary preparations, including frying, grilling, smoking, and steaming. Its distinctive taste contributes to its high demand.

4. Nutritional and Cultural Significance: Rich in essential nutrients, Hilsa is appreciated for its health benefits. It holds cultural importance in both Bangladesh, where it is considered a national dish, and India, where it is enjoyed during special occasions.

5. Sustainability: Despite the high demand, Hilsa is managed sustainably by both Bangladesh and India to prevent overexploitation. This responsible management helps preserve the fish’s population but can also contribute to higher prices due to conservation efforts.

While Hilsa's high price may be a barrier for some, many consider it a worthwhile indulgence given its mouth-waterning flavor, health benefits, and cultural significance.

55 kg giant Hilsa sold for Rs 13 lakh 

Even though Hilsa fish shortage has hit the market, a large Bhola fish, weighing 55 kg, raised the spirits of fishermen at Digha estuary in 2022. The fish was sold at Digha Mohana Fish Auction Center for Rs 13 lakh. It is the largest marine fish auction center in eastern India. Upon receiving the news of the huge fish, tourists rushed to see the giant fish. After bidding for three hours, the fish was bought by Shivaji Kabir, a resident of Nainan in South 24 Parganas. at Rs. 26,000 per kg.

Indo-Bangladesh diplomacy 

Part of the Hilsa crisis in India has been a result of a ban on Hilsa exports by Bangladesh between 2012 and 2018 - a fall out of failed Delhi-Dhaka talks over Teesta waters. Hilsa remains the undisputed queen of the Bengali culinary identity. Some fusion attempts of cooking the fish like a Biriyani or the South Indian way with mustard and curry leaves have never fetched aplomb. Perhaps because of its own strong flavours - the best way to have the Hilsa, as many agree, remains the Bengali way - slathered in mustard with hot steamy rice.

Hilsa the fish that unites the two Bengal

With the arrival of the monsoon season, Bengalis eagerly look forward to enjoying hilsa, often called the 'queen of fish,' which they savor in various dishes from head to tail. 

Families separated by the border often debate which hilsa tastes better: the ones caught from the Padma River in Bangladesh or those from the Ganga in West Bengal. Unlike many other communities where brahmins avoid meat or fish, Bengali brahmins enjoy these foods, with hilsa being especially popular during Durga Puja. Hilsa is prepared in many ways, including simple curry (jhol), pulao, and steamed varieties (bhapa ilish).

Hilsa also holds a special place in Bengali literature and culture, with celebrated poets like Rabindranath Tagore and Jibanananda Das writing about this cherished fish.