Old Dhaka bustles with last-minute Eid shoppers

With the Holy Eid-ul-Fitr knocking at the door, the number of shoppers has increased in various markets, wholesale and retail outlets in Old Dhaka. Especially toward the end of Ramadan, people are flocking to markets to buy new clothes, shoes, cosmetics, and other essentials for their families and relatives. A significant number of retail traders are also seen crowding the wholesale markets in the area. A visit to the spot shows that small and large markets and shops in areas such as Lakshmibazar, Chawkbazar, Nawabpur and Sadarghat are witnessing a steady flow of customers from noon until late at night. The crowd grows heavier as the day progresses.

In wholesale markets, retailers from different districts and upazilas across the country are purchasing clothes and fabrics. Alongside the markets in Old Dhaka, footpath shops in Gulistan and Lakshmibazar are also seeing increased customer presence. Lower-and middle- income people are particularly drawn to these shops due to comparatively affordable prices. Customers say they want to complete their shopping as Eid approaches. Many are buying punjabis, pajamas, shirts, pants, T-shirts, sarees, three-piece outfits, children's clothing, shoes, and cosmetics for their families.

Some are also purchasing goods for resale in district and upazila towns. Sellers report that although sales were relatively slow at the beginning of Ramadan, business has picked up significantly toward the end. The markets are most crowded from evening until late at night. While wholesale buyers usually make purchases at the start of Ramadan, some are also buying goods at the last moment. Mohammad Alamgir, a garment worker shopping at Lakshmibazar, said, "I came here today and completed my Eid shopping for my family. I bought three-piece outfits for the girls.

Prices are a bit lower here, so I chose to shop from this market." Md. Kamal Hossain, a launch passenger from Barishal, came to Old Dhaka's wholesale punjabi market to make purchases. He said, "I'm going home today for the Eid holidays. I bought punjabis for myself and my family from Sharif Market. Since I'm heading to my village, I like to take something for everyone. New clothes during Eid make everyone happy." Haji Jasim Uddin, a wholesale cloth trader in Islampur, said, "Our business does relatively well during the Eid season. Since this is a fabric market, sales are strong during this time.

Retail traders from different districts come here to buy fabrics and ready-made garments. Punjabis, three-piece outfits, sarees, pajamas, and children's clothing are in high demand." Md. Selim Mia, a trader at Sadarghat Hawkers Market, said, "Most of our customers are launch passengers. Before going home for Eid, many buy punjabis, shirts, T-shirts, pajamas, children's clothing, and shoes from here. As Eid gets closer, sales are improving compared to earlier days."