By Jheelum Basu
June 19, 2026
When the search is for the best aromatic rice grains, Bengal is the place to look. From GI-tagged Gobindobog and Tulaipanji to premium Banskathi, this state has the most diverse range. Here’s a look at the top five Bengali rice grains.
This is an iconic, GI-tagged, short-grain rice with a sweet aroma and a signature sticky texture. It is often considered ideal for making payesh and pulao.
Hailing from North Bengal, this premium rice gets its name from the cotton-soft texture. The medium-grain rice is often used for making pulao and biryani.
This premium, non-Basmati, long-grain rice is known for its non-sticky texture, sweet taste, and natural aroma. Also, this is a staple for households that seek high-quality rice daily.
Binni is a traditional, short-grain, sticky rice with its origin in Bangladesh. It is often used for pithe, payesh, and other special dishes.
Another premium, aromatic, short-grain rice from the Sundarbans and lower Gangetic plains, Radhatilak is known for its intense aroma. It is used to make daily rice, khichuri, and payesh.