Manasa Puja is one of Bengal’s oldest and most significant religious festivals. It is not just a ritual, but a celebration deeply rooted in the region’s cultural and folk traditions. As the Hindu community prepares for the upcoming Manasa Puja on Sunday, 17 August, a festive atmosphere can be felt in homes across Raozan.
Central to the Puja is the ritual of animal sacrifice, which includes goats, ducks, and offerings of fruits. Traditionally, around 80% of Hindu households in the area perform goat sacrifices, a custom observed for generations.
With only two days remaining before the festival, goat markets across Raozan have seen a surge in activity. Temporary markets have been set up in places such as Fakir Hat, Ramzan Ali Hat, Brahman Hat, and Gafur Ali Bostami Charabat Tola Market. These markets are bustling with buyers and sellers from nearby and distant districts.
Traders have brought goats not only from the local hills but also from far-off regions including Dhaka, Rangpur, Dinajpur, Jessore, Pabna, and Rajshahi. Prices range from Tk 15,000–20,000 for medium-sized goats, while larger ones are fetching Tk 50,000 to over Tk 1.5 lakh. The high-value Pattanaiya breed goats are in strong demand.
Buyers like Bimal Shil and Rubel Shil noted a slight increase in prices compared to last year, but were still satisfied with their purchases. Vendors such as Mohammad Shamim reported good sales, having sold 20 out of 40 goats at prices between Tk 15,000 and Tk 30,000.
Market authorities confirmed that trade has been brisk and security ensured throughout the buying and selling process.
