Demand for handmade puffed rice—an essential iftar item—rises significantly across Bangladesh during the holy month of Ramadan. However, handmade puffed rice, produced mostly by women in Tangail district, is drawing increasing attention countrywide for its unique taste.
In Daulatpur village of Kalihati upazila, nearly 200 families are engaged in producing handmade puffed rice throughout the year. However, production has increased as producers work day and night to meet soaring demand during Ramadan.
Most of the producers are women from low-income households. They prepare the puffed rice without any chemical additives, preserving its natural taste and traditional quality. While the product meets local demand, it is also supplied to Dhaka and other districts in the country.
A tradition rooted in rural heritage
A visit to Daulatpur reveals entire households immersed in the age-old process. Using clay stoves, large iron works and wooden stirrers, families produce puffed rice in a traditional way.
The process begins at dawn. Paddy is first soaked and boiled, then dried under the sun to produce rice. Later, rice is heated in large iron pans over an open flame until it puffs into crispy muri.
Women bear the primary responsibility for production, although husbands and children often lend support. Buyers from distant areas crowd the village daily to purchase the product in bulk.
Rising demand during Ramadan
Producers say demand multiplies several times during Ramadan. Many customers prefer handmade puffed rice over machine-made varieties, citing better taste and texture.
Nurjahan, a producer, said she works from morning until evening during Ramadan. With assistance from her husband and son, she produces between 25 and 30 kilograms of puffed rice daily.
Another producer said sales have increased compared to previous years. They mainly use Irri and Aman paddy varieties. Outside Ramadan, sales remain relatively slow. Currently, they produce about 50 kilograms per day, selling each kilogram for Tk 95 to Tk 100.
Five kilograms sell for approximately Tk 450. However, producers say profits remain slim compared to the labour involved. Most families depend entirely on this seasonal income to manage household expenses.
Call for government support
Despite the growing demand, producers say they have yet to receive government assistance. They believe low-interest loans would help expand production and improve their livelihoods.
Kuddis, another artisan, said that while puffed rice sells year-round, Ramadan significantly boosts sales. Besides Tangail, their products are distributed to various parts of the country.
Retailer Al Amin, who purchased 100 kilograms for his shop, said demand for handmade puffed rice is particularly high this season and he plans to buy more if needed.
Kalihati Upazila Nirbahi Officer Khairul Islam said the chemical-free nature of the product gives it a unique taste that is well recognized nationwide. He added that authorities are ready to provide necessary support if producers apply for government assistance or loans.