Hidden gems of DITF

With its amazing blend of old-school joy and new additions every year, one simply cannot expect the annual Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) to get boring. And while buying plastic buckets, colourful table mats and fancy electronics becomes our top priority, it is important to take a breather and just appreciate some of the brilliant contributions of the fair. 

THE ARTISTS 

The space around the fountain right after entering the fairground caters to a small crowd almost lost in their own world. The artists, straight from different art institutes across the country, will not only impress you with the different portraits on display but will also draw your portrait in just 10 minutes for only about Tk.300! In fact, you can even talk to them and learn a bit more about the art scene or even commission them for a personal painting project. 

MASCOTS 

 One of the DITF constants, the mascots are still a hot favourite among children. Who does not love watching their favourite cartoons come to life? With their friendly gestures they are sure to make your children's day a little brighter, reenergising them for the long exhausting fair walks! 

This time, you are sure to see a crowd of children (and even a few adults) surrounding the tiger mascot from Marks. There are also two jerry mascots – one at Pran Confectionary and another at EPL. In fact, EPL also have cardboard cut-outs of Spiderman and Disney princesses for taking fun photos or selfies with your little ones.

THE JUTE PAVILION

Enough with the foreign pavilions. Why not try out our national pride - jute products - instead? As part of a campaign to promote the environmentally friendly jute, Pavilion 6 at the DITF is wholly dedicated to jute products. 

From cute hut showpieces to aesthetic carpets, you would be surprised at the kind of variation possible with jute. Online shops, such as Baggitude, also have stores at the DITF, especially targeting the youth with its witty writings. Baggitude also allows you to get customised writings on their jute products. The pavilion also consists of a painting and tapestry studio with beautiful artworks on display. A treat to the eyes, these tapestries are for sale, costing Tk 100,000 and above. 

THE IGLOO FEVER

 What even is the trade fair without Igloo introducing new treats? While the past years had blessed us with delicacies such as Ego, the DITF this year introduced us to the Caramel Crunch and the Igloo Nutricks. For the coffee addicts, they have also launched a coffee-flavoured ice-cream called Ice cafe for only Tk.30! Keeping children in mind, the ice cream 'Play time' was launched, which contains a toy inside to keep the little ones occupied. In fact, even the health conscious can now enjoy low calorie ice cream thanks to Igloo Lite. So, this year, do remember to check out your favourite ice-cream from your favourite brand! 

CONTAINER KEBAB BY BABA RAFI

With a cute 'stop, eat and share' motto, the yellow stall with its yellow seating arrangements is sure to catch your eye merely because of the warm cosy vibe of the stall! The nice outdoor spot would allow you to enjoy your surprisingly delicious meals under the goodness of the night. This globally recognised Indonesian chain offers mouth-watering kebabs, kebab rice and burgers at Tk130 only. New to the city and already making an impression, Container Kebab is a must this fair! 

Over the last few years, the Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) has lost its former glory. It has shrunk in size and much of the fun fare surrounding it is fading away. However, there are hidden gems and exploits to be made and they are only a step away!



 

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed