Cox’s Bazar is not just a city of the sea—it is a city of flavors and stories. Here, the people, the ocean, and food come together to create a rich and distinctive coastal culture.
To celebrate that very spirit, Embolden Bangladesh and Next Shikhon have organized a special seafood festival titled “Sagorer Shad” (Taste of the Sea), with support from Hotel Ramada by Wyndham and the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The festival was inaugurated on Friday (November 7) at the Ramada Hotel Conference Hall. The opening ceremony, conducted by Afifa Yaser Ulfa, Deputy Lead of Operations at Embolden Bangladesh, featured speeches by Sharmin Sultana, Assistant Commissioner (Land), Cox’s Bazar Sadar; Jahanara Islam, President of Cox’s Bazar Women Chamber of Commerce; Chevan Gunaratne, General Manager of Ramada by Wyndham; Mizanur Rahman Milky, Convener of TUAC; Ibrahim Khalil Bhuiyan, Team Leader of Enroute; Hasna Huraine Chowdhury, Advisor of Embolden Bangladesh; and Tamanna Nowrin, Executive Director of Next Shikhon, among others.
Assistant Commissioner (Land) Sharmin Sultana said,
“Cox’s Bazar is a place of diversity—its geography, cuisine, culture, and traditions make it truly unique and appealing to everyone. An initiative like Sagorer Shad helps promote this diversity and connects people with the essence of our coastal identity.”
A Celebration of Coastal Taste and Creativity
At Sagorer Shad, local entrepreneurs are showcasing their innovative seafood dishes—featuring fresh prawns, coral fish, crabs, lobsters, calamari, and squid.
Each delicacy offers visitors a new sensory experience, blending creativity with the authentic taste of the coast.
Injamamul Haque, President of Embolden Bangladesh and one of the main organizers, said, “The festival aims to promote local entrepreneurs’ creativity and skill development while advancing the coastal economy toward sustainable growth. Through this event, participants can engage directly with the region’s culinary heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.”
A Festive Wave of Flavor and Joy
Set against the rhythmic sound of sea waves and the elegant ambiance of Ramada Hotel, Sagorer Shad promises to be a vibrant celebration of taste, culture, and innovation.
Families, friends, and food lovers are invited to join this colorful day-long event, where every dish tells a story of the sea and the love of its people.
The festival features 16 unique stalls and will continue until 8 p.m., offering visitors a full day of flavor and festivity by the Bay.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
