Srinagar markets bustle with Eid shoppers

Srinagar, Mar 18: With Eid-ul-Fitr likely to be celebrated on Friday or Saturday subject to the sighting of the moon, markets across Srinagar have come alive with a surge in shopping activity, reflecting the festive spirit that traditionally marks the final days of Ramadhan.

From the commercial hub around Lal Chowk to the bustling lanes of downtown, shoppers have been thronging markets over the past few days, purchasing clothes, footwear, accessories, and household items.

The markets in Goni Khan near Amira Kadal Bridge, known for women’s apparel and accessories, are witnessing heavy footfall, particularly of women buying jewellery, bangles, and earrings, while many are also seen getting intricate mehndi designs applied ahead of Eid.

Traders said that despite intermittent rains slightly affecting footfall, the enthusiasm among shoppers remains undeterred.

“The weather did impact business for a while, but as Eid approaches, people are coming out in large numbers. The rush has increased significantly, especially in the evenings,” said Mushtaq Ahmad, a shopkeeper at Goni Khan market.

Markets dealing in garments and footwear are witnessing brisk sales, with parents accompanying their children to purchase new clothes for the festival.

In downtown Srinagar, especially in and around Jamia Masjid and its adjoining markets, shops selling home furnishing items like curtains, carpets, and decorative pieces are also doing good business as people prepare their homes for Eid celebrations.

“I came here to buy some curtains and furnishings for Eid. There are good options and reasonable prices in these markets, so it feels worth coming here,” said Imad Mir, a shopper at Jamia Masjid market.

Even as Ramadhan is still underway, mutton and chicken shops across the city are witnessing increased demand, with people making advance preparations for Eid feasts.

Meanwhile, bakeries and confectionery shops, an essential part of Eid traditions, are witnessing a significant uptick in sales.

From cakes and pastries to cookies and patties, these items are in high demand as families prepare to begin Eid morning on a sweet note.

Established outlets such as Mughal Darbar, Jan Bakery, and Janta Bakers, along with several new entrants in the sector, are experiencing a steady rush of customers.

“The rush has picked up in the last few days. People are placing advance orders for cakes and other items for Eid. Despite rains, sales are good and we expect even more demand in the coming days,” said the owner of Sahab’s Bakery in the Hazratbal outskirts.

Traders across sectors are also increasingly leveraging social media platforms to attract customers, offering discounts and promotional deals on clothing, bakery items, and even electronic goods, adding a modern touch to the traditional Eid shopping experience.