Meraz’s Misti Bari — Story of a Sweet Dreamer Featured on Jago News 24

S. M. Al-Meraz, a student of Meherpur Government College, has created quite a stir in the virtual world through his entrepreneurial journey — selling traditional sweets on Facebook and expanding his dream into a full-fledged online business.

Coming from a business-oriented family, Meraz has not only captured the attention of his hometown but has also aimed to introduce the traditional sweets of Meherpur to every corner of Bangladesh. His inspiring story was featured in Jago News 24, written by Ariful Islam Arman.

The Beginning of a Sweet Journey

The idea first struck Meraz in 2013, when he noticed mango sellers from Rajshahi promoting and delivering mangoes via Facebook. Inspired, he wondered —

“If they can introduce Rajshahi through their mangoes, why can’t I introduce Meherpur through our traditional sweets — Sabitry and Roshokodombo — that carry 150 years of heritage?”

In July 2014, he launched a Facebook page titled “Sweets of Meherpur (Meherpurer Misti)”, where he posted the history, images, and prices of the legendary sweets once created by Late Bashukuri.

Soon, orders began to pour in from across Meherpur through Facebook and phone calls — marking the humble beginning of entrepreneur Meraz.

A Setback and a New Beginning

Initially, Meraz’s business grew with the help of friends. However, an unfortunate incident occurred when one of his friends absconded with a large sum of order money, forcing him to pause operations temporarily.

But Meraz didn’t give up. Motivated by Munshi Jahangir Zinnat (Hirok) — the Founder and Chief Executive of Unique Soft — he decided to start again, stronger than before.

Rebranding his initiative from “Sweets of Meherpur” to “Misti Bari”, he received support from Munia Rahman, Yazdani Ullash, Ripon Hasan, Tanvir, Shuvo, Sayeed, Rashik, and other freelancers of Meherpur. He also gained valuable guidance from the Facebook-based group “Don’t search for jobs — offer jobs and work hard.”

From there, Meraz never looked back.

Expansion and Variety

Initially focused on Meherpur’s iconic sweets, Misti Bari gradually expanded to include famous delicacies from all over Bangladesh.

Today, Misti Bari offers:

• Rosho Malai from Monohorpur Matri Bhandar, Comilla

• Curd (Doi) from Bogra

• Monda from Muktagacha, Mymensingh

• Sabitry and Roshokodombo from Meherpur

• Roshogolla (Sadek Golla) from Jessore

• Pora Sandesh from Satkhira

• Porabarir Chamcham from Tangail

• Kancha Golla from Natore

• Chanamukhi from Brahmanbaria

• And over 24 varieties of sweets from regions like Rajkumar, Bagat, and Faridpur

In addition, Misti Bari offers specialties such as Talshash, Katarivog, Sabanivog, Elshipetty, Kodmi, Chomchom, and Kalojam — a delightful collection for every sweet lover.

From F-Commerce to E-Commerce

To bring his dream to a larger audience, Meraz built an official website — www.mistibari.com — transforming his Facebook-based initiative into a professional e-commerce platform.

Customers can now order online and receive their sweets at home through cash-on-delivery service. Currently, Misti Bari delivers across 17 districts, in partnership with over 40 local establishments, each managed by local representatives.

Marketing Through Facebook

Being an online venture, Facebook remains Misti Bari’s primary platform for promotion and customer interaction. Through creative posts and visuals, Meraz has built a trusted brand identity for authentic, fresh, and traditional sweets.

Future Plans

At present, Misti Bari’s services are centered mainly in Dhaka, but Meraz plans to open offline branches in the capital soon. His long-term goal is to expand nationwide and involve unemployed youth in his business network — helping them earn through digital entrepreneurship.

Advice for Young Entrepreneurs

Meraz believes that patience is the key to success in any business — whether online or offline.

“Many people think online business is easy. But both online and offline ventures require equal effort. Marketing is easier online, but real success takes time, dedication, and research. Business doesn’t grow overnight — it demands patience and persistence.”

Conclusion

The story of Meraz and Misti Bari stands as a testament to how innovation, digital skills, and local pride can blend together to create something truly inspiring. From a Facebook idea to a growing national brand — Meraz’s journey reminds every young entrepreneur that dreams become reality when powered by purpose and perseverance.