‘Faisa’ is a popular type of marine fish, widely known in Cox’s Bazar as Chhapa Shutki (pressed dried fish). Renowned for its distinct flavor, it is especially cherished when prepared as a spicy mash (bharta). Demand for dried Faisa remains consistently high across the region.
Locals identify two main types of Faisa, with the most common being the sea-caught Chhapa Faisa, primarily processed into shutki. This variety, often referred to as Faisa Shutki, is widely used in hotels and restaurants, particularly for making bharta.
In the local markets of Cox’s Bazar, Faisa typically sells for Tk 220–250 per kilogram, though prices vary depending on the size and quality of the catch.
At present, during the peak fishing season, Cox’s Bazar’s coastal waters are yielding large hauls of Faisa, with fishermen bringing in abundant catches each day.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
