Why should 'Mezban' get international recognition?

Mezban, a traditional food of Chattogram, has consecrated its sways among the people, not only in this particular region but also in the whole country and worldwide.

Originating from the Chattogram territory, the cuisine has its sundry landmarks, either by unique taste or mateship hospitality among family members or relatives, which is considered a venerable culture of this district.

It should get international recognition for its utmost admissibility, ultimately promoting our indigenous product and culture to the world.

It is said that in the 18th century, Arabian and Iranian merchants first introduced the dish to Bangladesh, and it gained popularity and expanded in Chattogram.

So, Chattogram is called the astringent of this cuisine. The name 'Mezban' is thought to have originated from the two identical words 'Mezwan' and 'Mezmani,' derived from the 15th—and 16th-century manuscripts of this region.

Mezban combines some food items, including rice, beef, and dal. Beef is the salient enchantment of this tradition, maintaining some differences from the cooking procedures of everyday beef cuisine. Mezbani masala is one of the key ingredients that make mezbani beef unique.

The people of Chattogram love to arrange flowers for funerals, marriage ceremonies, or other family occasions, a hundred-year-old practice in this district.

It is even said that the taste and flavor cannot vibrate like in Chattogram. Experts say that Chattogram's geographical dimensions catalyze this unique taste and flavor in this district, which ultimately demands Mezban as Chattogram's product.

Also, Mezban has become a tradition for the families of Chattogram, which they sometimes practice regularly. It becomes an alliance between the families and relatives, strengthening family ties. This exclusive characteristic also supports this food culture, which is unique to the people of Chattogram.

The above discussion clearly states that mean is the traditional food of the Chattogram region, which can get international recognition to introduce the cuisine on the global stage.

Securing GI (Geographical Indication) acceptance and being designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO can be two significant recognitions for this traditional dish. At that time, the brand value of this cuisine will also be enhanced.

Geographical Indication (GI) refers to a product from a specific country or region or produced in a territory because of its favorable weather or environment.

Bangladesh currently has 32 registered GI products. It started its journey in 2016 by declaring 'Jamdani Sari' the first registered GI product in Bangladesh.

The origination and practice of mezban in the Chattogram region should be declared a registered GI product by the authority, which will be ancillary to promoting this food worldwide. Also, a GI tag is a matter of pride for any country on the global stage.

UNESCO recognizes intangible cultural heritage as a global recognition of any country's tradition or festival, explaining a country's rich culture internationally. This is also a traditional recognition for any country.

Bangladesh has five intangible cultural heritage sites, with 'Jamdani Sari' and GI products in its intangible cultural heritage.

The practice and fame of mezban are also worth getting international recognition as an intangible cultural heritage for Bangladesh.

Monjurul Hoque, Chairman of Barcode Restaurant Group, said, "Mezban originated from Chattogram, an ancient traditional practice in this region. Not only the people of this district but also from the other districts and even foreigners praised the unique taste of this cuisine. So, I think it should be recognized as the GI product of Bangladesh and an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO."

Dr. Munal Mahbub, Director of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and Senior Vice President of the Chittagong Women Chamber of Commerce &  Industry (CWCCI), said, "The cooking procedure of mezban is something different, which adds uniqueness to its taste. So, I think this unique food should get international recognition, which will introduce it to the world. GI recognition will be a milestone in this regard."

The writer is an MBA student at The Department of Banking and Insurance at the University of Chittagong.

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