Known locally in Cox’s Bazar as ‘Bagh Gula’, the traditional snack is also known as ‘Tiger Food’ in many parts of the country. For locals, however, it is more than just a food item—it is tied to childhood memories, the taste of bygone days and a long-standing local culinary tradition.
But as times change and modern foods grow more popular, this once-familiar local delicacy is gradually disappearing from Cox’s Bazar’s food culture.
Recently, the traditional ‘Bagh Gula’ was still being sold at a small tea stall in front of the Baharchhara PTI Primary School in Cox’s Bazar. People usually enjoy it with tea, especially in the morning and afternoon, and it costs only Tk 10.
Local young journalist Tarek-ur Rahman said he had grown up seeing and eating Bagh Gula.
“I have known Bagh Gula since my childhood. We used to have it as breakfast on our way to school. It was a very familiar food to us then. But with the passage of time, it has gradually been disappearing,” he said.
He said many people of the younger generation might not be familiar with Bagh Gula anymore, despite its place in the local food heritage of Cox’s Bazar.
A vendor who has been selling Bagh Gula for many years said people still come to his stall to have it with tea.
“I have been selling Bagh Gula for a long time. People still come for it with tea. I continue to sell it to preserve the tradition. At only Tk 10, it is also affordable for ordinary people,” he said.
Locals say traditional foods such as Bagh Gula should be preserved as part of Cox’s Bazar’s distinctive culture and culinary heritage. They believe greater familiarity among younger generations could help revive the popularity of this fading local tradition.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
