There was a time when almost every rural market and tiny village shop in Cox’s Bazar offered a simple yet beloved snack called Mola.
Made by dipping puffed rice into sweet syrup and letting it harden into a crisp, golden treat, Mola was cherished by children and adults alike.
On the way back from school or while accompanying elders to the market, an extra two taka in hand meant only one thing — buying Mola.
It wasn’t too long ago. Just a decade back, small jars in front of local shops would display different shapes of Mola.
The delightful crunch at the slightest touch was proof of its freshness.
The sweet glaze coating the puffed rice, lightly hardened under the sun, made it irresistible — and explained its wide popularity.
But times have changed. In an era dominated by flashy, spice-filled packaged snacks, this once-loved traditional treat is on the verge of disappearing.
Today, only a handful of shops in Cox’s Bazar still sell Mola. Former vendors say the younger generation often doesn’t even recognize the name.
The price has changed, too. What once cost 2 taka is now 10 taka. Yet demand has dwindled so much that most shops no longer consider it worthwhile to stock it.
Local elder Kasim Ali reminisces, “Mola wasn’t just a snack — it was part of our childhood. The joy of getting a packet of Mola from the market is nothing like the excitement today’s children feel when they get chips.”
Whenever nostalgia is discussed, Mola holds a special place in the memories of the people of Cox’s Bazar. Even though it has faded amid modern snacks, its taste, smell, and crunchy golden moments remain alive in many hearts.
Somewhere in the corner of a village shop’s shelf, there may still be a few forgotten packets of Mola — waiting for an old customer to return and ask, “Bhai, can I have one Mola… is it just like the old days?”
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid
