Locals believe the sweet earned its name “Katkati” from the distinct crunching sound it makes while eating. The delicacy, cherished for over a century, has become a symbol of Bogura’s culinary heritage. Many also recognize it as “Mahasthangarh’s Katkati.” This dry yet sweet treat has transcended national borders, gaining popularity in Europe, America, and other parts of the world. Today, it stands as a proud emblem of Bogura’s culture and tradition.
Located about 12 kilometers north of Bogura city, Mahasthangarh is renowned worldwide for its archaeological significance. However, beyond its ancient ruins, the area is equally celebrated for its delicious Katkati, a sweet that has been produced and sold there for over a hundred years.
The journey of Katkati began in the early 19th century in the hands of local artisans. Initially made by mixing rice or wheat flour with molasses, the sweet was hard in texture and produced a crisp “kat-kat” sound when bitten, giving rise to its name. Over time, the recipe evolved, and modern versions are now softer while retaining their signature flavor.
According to local elders, around 150 years ago, three residents of Polashbari Uttarpara village in Gokul Union—Joynal Ali Mondal, Bhola Mondal, and Geda Mondal—were the first to prepare Katkati. The sweet was initially served at village fairs and weddings, quickly gaining popularity for its delightful crunch and easily available ingredients.
Today, the Mahasthangarh area is home to nearly a hundred Katkati shops, selling hundreds of kilograms daily. Prices vary based on ingredients: Katkati fried in dalda sells for Tk 180 per kilogram, those sprayed with ghee cost Tk 220, and premium versions made with polar rice are priced at Tk 260.
Every year, on the last Thursday of the Bangla month of Boishakh, marking the Victory Day of Hazrat Shah Sultan Mahmud Balkhi (RA), local traders sell between 1,000 to 2,000 maunds of Katkati. Visitors to Mahasthangarh often take the sweet home as a blessed souvenir, and exports have now reached more than a hundred countries.
Traders say Katkati is no longer just a food item; it represents Bogura’s culture, heritage, and pride. The business surrounding this traditional sweet generates an estimated Tk 40 crore annually in the Mahasthangarh area.
Shah Alam, a local trader, said, “Our family has been in the Katkati business for six generations. Seeing our success, many others have joined this trade. The business continues throughout the year, especially around the shrine of Mahasthangarh.”
Majnu, a Katkati maker, added, “We have been involved in this craft since childhood. It’s our livelihood, and we take pride in carrying on the tradition.”
Md. Russell, an officer at the Bogura office of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority, said that the preparation and sale of Katkati in the Mahasthangarh shrine area are regularly monitored. “We ensure that no artificial colors or harmful additives like saccharin are used. Sellers and makers are also advised to maintain hygienic conditions during production,” he stated.
