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Many things vary from generation to generation, but one thing is becoming exponentially more tiring: the lack of purity in our food. In this life full of hassle, all we can afford is polluted air and adulterated food.
The urgency of this issue becomes even more profound during Ramadan, a month of reflection, self-discipline, and mindful consumption. As families gather for iftar and seheri, the intention is not only to nourish the body but also to provide pure food for everyone's well-being.
Amid this scarcity, some businesses have made it their sole purpose to bring out 'pure,' 'authentic' foods in a modern setting for the modern world, so they can at least serve people who can afford them financially and respect the initiative.
One of them is KhatiBaazaar. Prokash Sikder founded KhatiBaazaar with the dream of delivering premium, pure products across the country.
How he describes his products makes one visualise the process, "One of our main organic food items is A2 ghee, and to me, this is the name of ultimate purity in the world of dairy. The milk used to make this ghee comes from cows that roam freely. These cows are fed exclusively with green grass and natural feed, just as was practised in earlier times."
We also have mustard oil for daily use from our specialised 'Ghaani', where there is no old Iron or stone is used. We will use stainless steel so the oil does not become contaminated with powdered stone or rust, unlike other pressed oils on the market. A vacuum-cleaning method will be automated to enhance hygiene. Also, there is no extra spice or colour mixed, so the nutrient values are intact."
As Mr Sikder believes, "Food is medicine. Nature is the ultimate healer," he wants not only to sell products but also to spread awareness among customers. Besides these organic food items, KhatiBaazaar widens its spectrum to include indigenous products, regional textiles, art and craft items, and customised, need-based imported products. They aim to be a one-stop solution for people seeking a premium lifestyle experience.
It is often surprising how the most basic food items have become a rare sight in the life of metropoliton.
Like them, there are a few more in the market selling 'pure' and 'natural' products. One of them is GhorerBazar. It started just before Covid-19 hit our economy and has carried forward this far, with five outlets across five metro stations in Dhaka.
Habibur Rahman is the in-charge of Dhaka University metro station and shared some insight on customer satisfaction, "As our customer base is very specific and regular, we already have a mutual faith built up."
But these food items are often charged at a higher price than the regular market price. According to Habibur, there are some concerns about the high price, but if they need to ensure quality, the price cannot be compromised; they try to keep it as reasonable as possible.
During Ramadan, they offer complimentary water and dates to everyone who visits their store, as a gesture to strengthen their bond with current and potential customers.
Among the old ones, new initiatives are budding on a different scale. In this busy city life, we have mastered the art of rush but not the skill of a healthy lifestyle.
Most failures depend on the food we consume. It is not necessary to feel compelled to buy every pure and organic food item in your social media newsfeed, but the main theme is to think for yourself.
If you have an available terrace or balcony with good ventilation, try growing some fresh herbs and vegetables. The mint leaves you just grew in a humid box beside your kitchen can be added to the Iftar drink.
Buy some fresh farm milk from your neighbourhood and try making ghee yourself. The skills that are declining over time are some treasures, and we still have time to re-assimilate what our ancestors did just with their own hands.
One or two of these things, we'll feel again that not everything needs a machine touch. This Ramadan, do not only follow the trends but also find your roots with inner innovation and bring out the best in you, even on the platter of food and prayers.