A pitha pitstop in Dhanmondi

You do not need me to remind you how much Dhaka residents cherish their rooftops as winter rolls in, turning them into hubs for catching up with friends and family. Rooftop BBQs and hangouts have practically become an unspoken tradition. 

And not too far behind as a winter favourite are pithas, those iconic Bangladeshi delicacies that effortlessly bring loved ones together for a quick indulgence, deeply rooted in our culture.

Credence Housing Ltd embraced this winter spirit with enthusiasm by launching their very own Pitha Utshob on 9 January. It is their first time organising such an event, dedicated exclusively to their cherished stakeholders and clients, to whom they endearingly refer to as ambassadors. 

The objective was simple — to foster a sense of community while adding a delightful culinary twist to the season.

Held at Credence Business Centre in Dhanmondi 27, the Pitha Utshob will run daily from 3pm to 11pm until 12 January. The event immediately greets visitors with a festive ambience upon entering the venue. 

While a business centre might not seem like the most obvious choice for a pitha festival at first glance, stepping onto the rooftop reveals a lively and engaging atmosphere that quickly changes that perception.

The pithas were beautifully arranged on a long corner table, while some were being freshly prepared at nearby stalls. The selection featured all the classics — bhapa, chitoi, nakshi, and more.

The bhapa pitha was a delightful melt-in-your-mouth combination of fine rice flour, smooth jaggery, and delicate slivers of coconut. 

The tel pitha stole the show, fried to perfection with a crisp exterior and a soft, pillowy interior. It was a crowd favourite, vanishing so quickly that the catering team had to keep making fresh batches to meet the demand.

The patishapta pitha, a personal favourite, struck a lovely balance of sweetness — neither overwhelming nor too mild. 

Of course, the nakshi pithas were present as well. For me, their intricate designs and visual charm are just as captivating as their taste, adding a touch of artistry to the celebration.

Moreover, the spread was not limited to pithas alone — there was an impressive variety of savoury dishes as well. From chicken grills and chicken jhal fry to mutton handi, vegetables, and rotis, the menu had something for everyone. 

In one corner, a fuchka and chatpati stall stole the spotlight. I could not resist the fuchkas, which were incredibly fresh. The filling was generous, with a delightful hint of lime juice that I particularly enjoyed. One bite was enough to confirm the crispness and crunch, a sure sign of their freshness.

Credence anticipates a total of around 500 visitors over the course of the four-day festival. While the first day fell on a weekday, they expect a significantly larger crowd today, Friday, and over the weekend. That said, the turnout on the opening day was far from modest.