There are various types of betel leaves being produced in Bangladesh at the moment and Laldingi is one of the best. It has achieved much acclaim to the people because of being bigger in size and thickness, better in smoothness, and taste. Moreover, it is because of these reasons that Kishoreganj is a hub where Laldingi is being grown with a commercial purpose.
The people of Kishoreganj and greater Mymensingh understand the word betel leaf through Laldingi. Naturally, the betel leaf which is aromatic, thick and full of juice, is appreciated by most of the people. People from the greater Mymensingh region are blushing their lips read every day to taste the flavor of this leaf.
Due to its size and taste, it is perfect for making betel cones for takeaways. This is now being marketed all over the country including Dhaka. In the US, United Arab Emirates, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, this betel leaf is being exported from Kishoreganj.
In front of the entrance of Puranathana Bazar in Kishoreganj town, a few steps in front of the street, there are numerous ‘Paan’ shops on both sides of the street. These are sold at wholesale and retail price here. This is a turning point in front of the street. Abdul Malek's betel leaf shop at this corner.
Malek said they have an ancestral betel leaf garden. He is also involved in the sale of betel leaf. Submundi, Swanpur and Jangal villages of Karimganj Upazila have numerous betel leaf gardens. He collects betel leaf on daily basis from these.
Abdul Malek said that betel leaf was cultivated in Pakundia in Kishoreganj. Besides, this betel leaf is cultivated in various upazilas including Karimganj, Hossainpur Katiyadi and Nandail upazilas of Mymensingh.
Betel leaf shop owner Raja Alam (38) said that it is possible for him to collect 8 to 9 thousand 'Laldingi' everyday. In the market, it can be sold for Tk 100 to 280 per ‘Bira’(80 leaves). In addition, the demand is good too.
It is learned that many people are benefited by cultivating delicious betel leaf in Pakundia of Kishoreganj. Many people are being benefited from it and its yield is increasing day by day. Almost everyone in this upazila cultivate betel leaf in a portion of their cultivable land. To meet the needs of their food, once a week or two, they are selling in the market and keeping their family solvent.