Thu Sep 12 09:51:59 UTC 2024: ## Ilish: A Fish That Defines Bengali Identity and India-Bangladesh Relations
**DHAKA/KOLKATA** – The Ilish, a bony freshwater fish, holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of Bengalis. In Bangladesh, it is the official national fish, while in West Bengal, India, it is designated as the state fish. For both regions, the Ilish is more than just a food staple – it is a symbol of their cultural identity, much like salmon is to Norwegians or fish and chips to Britons.
The importance of Ilish transcends mere culinary significance. It also serves as a barometer for the complex relationship between India and Bangladesh. The availability and accessibility of this prized fish, often impacted by political decisions, reflect the ebb and flow of relations between the two nations.
This article originally appeared in the Asia section of The Economist under the headline “Bangla dish,” highlighting the multifaceted significance of this iconic fish within the Bengali cultural landscape.
First Piper 