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Mezban Persian word literally meaning a host. The word now means 'community feasting', a tradition that originated in Chittagong region. It is usually hosted by rich people and the main occasion to
organise it is the observance of the 12th day of the lunar month Rabiul Awal, the date of birth and death of
hazrat muhammad
(Sm). Other occasions include the death anniversary of an individual, the birth of a child, any special achievement by someone, inauguration of a new business, or celebration of the entrance to a new residence. It is not obligatory for the mezban to invite anybody individually. The invitation is open and according to tradition, once the information about
organisation of mezban is made public, it becomes a social responsibility for all to join it. Organising a mezban
symbolises a high profile of the host. Mezban organisers take pride in the number of people joining the feast, which sometimes may go up to a few thousands. A notable feature of the mezban is its simple menu: just rice and beef curry. Mezban, the tradition of the Chittagong region has now spread in towns and villages of many other areas. Most
organisers, however, are still the rich people hailing from Chittagong. The mezban food is also prepared mainly by Chittagong chefs. Winter is the favourite season for
organising mezban. [S M Mahfuzur Rahman]
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