What sets Chapai’s Khirsa apart from the rest? Rajshahi’s Fazli Mango and Bogra’s curd prove their worth. And it’s not just the mornings – whether it’s mid-afternoon or late in the day, Kachagolla promises sweetness to your taste buds. Be it a Punjabi or a Saree worn to honor your loved one after the meal, it’s silk all the way. Mangoes, curd, and kachagolla, all hailing from the Rajshahi region, have earned the prestigious recognition of Geographical Indication (GI) products while branding Rajshahi as a true culinary gem.
After Mango, curd, and raw milk were recognized as GI products, their demand and value have surged. While Rajshahi-Chapai’s Fazli, Langra, Khirsapat, and Ashwina Mangoes, all GI products, are not available year-round, Bogra’s curd and Natore’s Kachagolla can be enjoyed year-round, however. This accessibility allows anyone from North Rajshahi Division, regardless of their district, to savor Kachagolla for their family, with Natore serving as the gateway to the entire division except Pabna-Sirajganj.
According to reliable sources, a total of 17 products across the country have received Geographical Indication (GI) recognition. When considering divisions, Rajshahi takes the lead with seven products granted GI recognition. Among these seven, apart from Rajshahi silk, the remaining six are food items. These food products include four distinct varieties of mangoes, along with curds from Bogra and kachagolla from Natore.
Within Rajshahi Division, seven products have earned GI recognition. This recognition was achieved through a meticulous application process with the Directorate of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (DPDT) under the Ministry of Industry.
Among these, two products hail from Rajshahi district itself—Rajshahi Silk and Fazli Mango. Notably, Chapainawabganj, within the Rajshahi division, boasts a variety of mangoes that have secured GI recognition, including Khirsapat mango, Langra mango, and Ashwina mango. Additionally, the Fazli mangoes of Rajshahi-Chapainawabganj hold a joint recognition. Furthermore, outside of mangoes, Bogra’s curd and Natore’s kachagolla have also been granted GI recognition.
07 Geographical Indication (GI) products from Rajshahi
1. Khirsapat mango
In the Rajshahi region, one of the prized GI products is the Khirsapat mango from Chapainawabganj. The journey to recognition as a GI product began on February 2, 2017, when the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute applied for its official status. This recognition was eventually granted on January 27, 2019.
The Khirsapat mango is characterized by its round, medium-sized shape, remarkable juiciness, and fiberless texture. What truly sets it apart is its captivating aroma. With a delightful sweetness, this mango is a true treat for the taste buds.
Although it boasts slightly thicker skin, the pulp inside is incredibly thin. Typically, the ripening season for these mangoes commences in early June, and it takes approximately four months from flowering to achieve fruit maturity.
2. Rajshahi Silk
The Bangladesh Silk Development Board in Rajshahi took a significant step on September 24, 2017, by applying for the coveted recognition of Rajshahi silk as a Geographical Indication (GI) product.
This remarkable achievement was realized on April 26, 2022, when Rajshahi Silk officially earned its prestigious GI status. Rajshahi Silk, known for its unparalleled elegance, has become an indispensable choice for various occasions, ranging from Pahela Baishakh, Eid, Puja-Parban, to Milanmela and more. Its versatility allows it to be worn comfortably in any season, be it winter or summer.
The exceptional quality of Rajshahi silk extends its reputation far beyond the borders, garnering appreciation not only within the nation but also on the international stage.
3. Fazli Mango
Fazli Mango, also known as Fakirbhog, obtained its Geographical Indication (GI) recognition on May 29, 2022, as a product of the Rajshahi-Chapainawabganj region, following objections from Chapainawabganj.
This delectable fruit is native to the eastern part of South Asia, prominently found in Bangladesh, as well as in West Bengal and Bihar, India. Unlike other mango species, Fazli mangoes have a delayed harvesting period, typically ripening from the beginning of July, during the months of Ashad-Shravan. These mangoes are characterized by their elongated, flat shape, with slightly yellow skin when ripe. The thin, juicy, and aromatic pulp boasts a remarkable sweetness with a sugar content of 17.5 percent.
4. Bogra’s Curd
On January 1, 2018, the Bangladesh Restaurant Owners Association Bogra District Branch initiated the application process for the recognition of ‘Bogra Yogurt’ as a Geographical Indication (GI) product.
This significant endeavor finally bore fruit on July 5, 2023, when Bogra Yogurt was officially granted GI product recognition. Mention Bogra district, and the first thing that comes to mind is its renowned yogurt, a cherished traditional dish that has captured the hearts of people throughout the country.
Bogra’s Curd stands apart not only in reputation but also in its exquisite taste. The journey begins with the procurement of the finest milk from various upazilas and villages within the district, all carefully selected to ensure quality. Subsequently, the meticulous process of crafting this delectable yogurt commences.
It’s worth noting that in Bogra, many of the yogurt factories continue to adhere to traditional methods of preparation, preserving the authentic flavor and heritage of this beloved delicacy.
5. Langra Mango
Mangoes, with their diverse range of over three hundred species, are renowned for their incomparable taste, aroma, and quality. Among these regal fruits, Langra mango stands as the undisputed king.
Recognizing its exceptional attributes, the Regional Horticulture Research Center in Chapainawabganj applied for Langra Mango’s Geographical Indication (GI) status on February 19, 2017.
This prestigious recognition was officially granted on July 5, 2023.
6. Ashwina Mango
In January 2018, the Regional Horticulture Research Center of Chapainawabganj submitted an application for the recognition of Ashwina mango as a GI product. Finally, on June 25, 2023, Ashwina Mango was officially granted GI product recognition. Unlike other mango varieties, Ashwina’s blossoms appear alongside those of other mango trees, but this unique mango typically remains on the tree until August. In select regions, these delectable mangoes become available in the first week of September.
7. Kachagolla
On August 8 of this year, Kachagolla from Natore received its well-deserved GI product recognition, following an application submitted on March 30, 2023, by the then Deputy Commissioner of Natore, Shamim Ahmed.
AKM Galiv Khan, the Deputy Commissioner of Chapainwabganj, proudly shared that Chapainwabganj district, as a single district, has secured recognition for four GI products—a source of immense pride and opportunity. This recognition is poised to revolutionize mango exports, potentially bolstering foreign sales starting next year. Plans are already underway to leverage this GI recognition, and the Department of Trademarks and Patents has initiated farmer registrations this year.
Notably, Khirsapat, Fazli, Ashwina, and Langra mangoes from Chapainawabganj, bearing GI recognition, will soon hit both domestic and international markets, complete with distinguishing stickers. This development promises fairer prices for mango farmers in the district.
Dr. Dewan Muhammad Humayun Kabir, the Rajshahi Divisional Commissioner, emphasized the economic significance of expanding our export portfolio. Geographical Indication (GI) recognition is bestowed upon regions, cities, or countries with unique attributes shaped by their climate and culture.
This distinction not only preserves their value but also amplifies their export potential. By producing GI products from every corner of our nation, we can boost exports, thereby positively impacting our economic reserves.