Readymade Shab-e-Barat

Shab-e-Barat seems incomplete without a dose of halwa-roti. But given the busy schedule of everyone these days, there is a scarcity of time to go into the task of making such delicacies. Moreover, spending more time cooking may mean allocating lesser time in praying. And while you nevertheless may want to make one or two items yourself, it is quite improbable that you will get a rich assortment by doing so.

Enter readymade Shab-e-Barat! Superstores and sweetmeat shops have a lot to offer during this occasion. Retail outlets like Agora, Almas et al sell halwas all throughout the year, but during Shab-e-Barat, these are of course in high demand. 

The delicacies usually come in simple, transparent, plastic boxes. There are a few suppliers in this field. Home Brand, for example, makes five different kinds of halwas. The firm has been in the market for almost one and half decades. Similarly, KNT Garden is another player in the market, which has also been in business for more or less the same period. It makes a plethora of halwas, including those that are sugar-free. KNT Garden, also sells 'chaaler roti'. 

Be it 'dimer halwa' or 'peper halwa' or 'gajorer halwa' or any other, the shelves of the superstores should suffice your culinary needs for the occasion.

On the other hand, sweetmeat shops also have a lot to offer. Prominent Sweets, true to its name, is indeed a reputable brand in the market. It is gearing up for the upcoming Shab-e-Barat. From 'chanar halwa/firni' (Tk600 per kg) to 'kaju borfi' (Tk1400 per kg), the brand has a wide plethora of items for the occasion. 

Meanwhile, Rosh has different breads along with items such as 'malai shondesh', 'lassa shemai', ghee and 'reshmi jilapi' and their laddus and halwas. It also has a special gift box, an assortment, to mark the occasion. 

We cannot deny the fact that there's a charm in preparing food by oneself and distributing them among the neighbours and friends. But if you have your hands full this Shab-e-Barat, then the myriad superstores and sweetmeat shops are a perfect solution. 

By M H Haider