TDS DESK:

With Eid-ul-Azha set to be celebrated on 17 June, cattle markets in Chandpur district are abuzz with activity. Amid the hustle and bustle, one name is generating significant excitement: “Zayed Khan.”

Zayed Khan, a massive bull weighing between 25 to 30 maunds, has become the star attraction. Raised by Amir Hossain in Faridganj upazila, Zayed Khan is priced at an impressive Tk15 lakh. This bull represents a four-year labour of love for Amir, who has meticulously cared for Zayed Khan, ensuring he stays away from the crowded markets to avoid any potential issues.

The district, despite a reported shortage of 20,000 cattle, is well-prepared for the festive season. Dr. Jotirmoy Bhoumik, the district livestock officer, assures that the supply will meet the demand. He states that most of the sacrificial animal demand has been fulfilled by local farms, with a total of 61,489 animals prepared across 3,269 cattle farms in the district. These are supplemented by additional cattle arriving from other parts of the country.

Amidst this lively backdrop, other bulls have also drawn attention. In Nathora village, Hajigonj upazila, “Sultan,” a majestic black bull weighing 800 kg, has become a local sensation. Reared by Ali Ahmed, a local school teacher, Sultan is on the market for Tk8 lakh.

The bull’s was named after Zayed Khan in Chandpur. Photo Collected

Equally captivating is “Raza,” a black and white bull weighing 1,000 kg, from Rari Kandi village in North Matlab upazila. Owner Elias Dewan, a businessman, has nurtured Raza with a natural diet for several years. Due to Raza’s impressive size and strength, Elias prefers not to bring him to the crowded cattle markets. Raza, who enjoys the comfort of two electric fans and twice-daily baths, is also priced at Tk8 lakh.

At Shahrasti Agro and Dairy Farm, Shakhawat Hossain is showcasing “Live Weight,” a bull weighing 25 maunds, along with 16 other cattle prepared for Eid-ul-Azha.

During a recent visit to Boro Pashur Haat in Sadar upazila and Bakila Bazar in Hajigonj upazila, the excitement was palpable. People flocked to the markets, checking prices and eyeing potential purchases. Leaseholders are optimistic, anticipating a surge in activity as the week progresses and cattle sales kick off in earnest from Sunday.

In the midst of all this activity, Zayed Khan stands out not just for his size and price but for the care and dedication that Amir Hossain has invested in him. As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, Zayed Khan and other prized bulls like him symbolise the festive spirit and the deep connections between farmers and their livestock in Chandpur.

Actor Zayed Khan comments on bulls named after him:

Notably, Dhallywood actor Zayed Khan has been a popular figure, with his personal and professional life garnering significant public interest. As Eid approaches, the actor has been busy with various projects. Meanwhile, several farmers have named their bulls after the actor, sparking curiosity.

When asked how he feels about bulls being named after him, Zayed Khan told the media, “If my name spreads and helps someone achieve something good in life, earn some money, and benefit, then let it be. I have no problem with it.”

He further added, “If they are selling their prized possession at the sacrificial market using my name, let them. It’s common for an artist; no big deal. I’ve seen this happen with other celebrities’ names before.”