Popular Local Snack Shop in Rajbari Gains Regional Fame for Specialty Chicken Puri
Photo Collected
RAJBARI — A nondescript tin-roofed shop in Borat Bazar, located in the Rajbari Sadar Upazila, has become a culinary destination for food enthusiasts across the region. Known locally as “Mahesh-er Puri,” the eatery has gained a reputation for its signature snacks, particularly a unique pastry stuffed with a savory blend of lentils and spiced chicken.
The shop is owned by 55-year-old Mahesh Rajbhor, a resident of Gopalbari village. Mahesh has been perfecting his deep-fried delicacies for nearly 25 years. He initially operated a smaller stall at Antar More, but rising demand prompted him to relocate to a larger rented space in Borat Bazar two years ago. The business now supports his family, including his elderly father, wife Rina Rani Rajbhor, and three children.
The shop offers a diverse menu at accessible price points. While standard items like potato chops and onion fritters are priced at 10 taka, the establishment’s flagship chicken-stuffed puri costs 20 taka. Other offerings include fried chicken wings and legs, as well as Moglai parathas.
During a recent visit on Thursday, Mahesh was observed operating at a high pace alongside his son, Ajay Rajbhor, a middle-school student, and three additional employees. Five tables inside the shop were filled with customers, while others waited for parcels. The turnover is rapid; fresh batches of food are often sold out as soon as they are removed from the frying oil.
The eatery draws visitors from as far as Faridpur, Magura, and Kushtia. Rajib Ahsan, a customer who traveled from the Rajapur border area, noted the distinct flavor profile of the snacks, stating he had never tasted a puri quite like it before. Mizanur Rahman, who traveled 26 kilometers by motorcycle from Faridpur, confirmed that the food quality exceeded the positive reviews he had seen on social media.
According to Mahesh, the shop generates daily sales between 14,000 and 15,000 taka, with weekend figures often climbing to 25,000 taka or more. Despite the high volume, Mahesh maintains that rising ingredient costs have tightened profit margins.
The entrepreneur manages the business with a modest overhead, paying 2,500 taka in monthly rent. While he acknowledges the challenges of the current economy, he remains content with the steady stream of customers that allows him to fund his children’s education and maintain his household.
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