Markets wear festive look across Kashmir

Saqib Rather
Srinagar, May 26: On the eve of Eid-ul-Adha, markets across Kashmir witnessed an unmistakable festive surge as thousands of shoppers pour into commercial hubs to complete preparations for the occasion. From the busy streets of Lal Chowk in Srinagar to district marketplaces in South and North Kashmir, traders say business activity has picked up sharply since early morning on Tuesday.

The city’s major shopping centres remained crowded throughout the day on Tuesday, with families moving from one store to another in search of garments, footwear, bakery items, cosmetics and accessories. Markets stayed open late into the evening as shoppers continued arriving in large numbers after office hours.
In Srinagar, areas such as Residency Road, Maharaja Bazaar and the Sunday Market witnessed heavy footfall, while district towns including Anantnag, Baramulla, Pulwama, Kupwara and Bandipora also reported brisk business.
Shopkeepers said Eid-related sales have revived market activity after weeks of sluggish business.
“People are shopping with enthusiasm despite the increase in prices this year. Most families are purchasing clothes for children first, and then other household items,” said Bashir Ahmad, a garment dealer in Lal Chowk.
Footwear stores and cosmetic outlets also reported a steady rise in customers, particularly during evening hours.
“There has been a noticeable rush in the last few days. Customers are looking for both traditional and modern designs for Eid celebrations,” said Shazia Jan, who runs a footwear and accessories shop near Residency Road.
Temporary Mehendi stalls set up in several markets remained occupied through the afternoon and evening. Young girls and women could be seen waiting in queues to get intricate henna patterns applied ahead of the festival.
“It feels incomplete to celebrate Eid without Mehendi. Every year we come to the market together a few days before Eid,” said Areeba Mushtaq, a college student shopping with her cousins in Srinagar.
Local bakeries, known for traditional Kashmiri breads and festive confectioneries, also reported increased demand.
“Orders for cakes, kulchas and other bakery items have doubled compared to normal days. Eid always brings excitement for traders and customers alike,” said a bakery owner in downtown Srinagar.
Meanwhile, livestock markets across the Valley are witnessing a parallel rush as buyers search for sacrificial animals for Qurbani. Temporary cattle markets established in several areas remained packed with buyers inspecting sheep, goats and cattle.
Many residents, however, expressed concern over rising prices of sacrificial animals and essential commodities.
“The rates are much higher than last year, especially for sheep. Still, people are trying their best to fulfil religious traditions,” said Ghulam Nabi, a shopper at a livestock market on the outskirts of Srinagar.
Despite inflation concerns, the festive spirit remains visible across Kashmir, with illuminated shops, crowded streets and bustling markets reflecting the anticipation surrounding one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.
Authorities have also intensified traffic regulation and market monitoring in busy commercial areas to manage congestion during peak shopping hours.
With Eid-ul-Adha set to be celebrated tomorrow, markets are expected to remain busy till late night as last-minute shoppers continue to flock to commercial centres across the Valley.