Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Mar 1: As Kashmir gears up for the first fast of the holy month Sunday, the markets across the valley wore a festive look on Saturday, with people thronging shops to buy essentials, including dates, fruits, and bakery items.
With a huge rush, the markets in Srinagar and other towns were abuzz with shoppers making last-minute purchases. Vendors and shopkeepers reported an increase in sales, with many setting up special stalls to cater to the rising demand.
“People are buying fruits, dates, and beverages. We are witnessing better sales than usual,” said Bilal Ahmad, a fruit vendor in Srinagar, said.
Similarly, bakeries and sweet shops saw a surge in customers, with many placing orders for traditional delicacies.
“Ramadhan is a time when people love to buy special bakery items. We have been preparing extra stock to meet the demand,” said a bakery shop owner in Srinagar city.
Meanwhile, grocery stores were also packed with customers purchasing essentials like rice, pulses, and cooking oil in preparation for Sehri and Iftar meals.
Moreover, with spirit of Ramadan setting in, the festive atmosphere in Kashmir’s markets reflects the deep cultural and religious importance of the month for the people of Kashmir.
It is worth mentioning, Ramadan is the ninth holy Islamic month for Muslims across world that involves fasting, prayer, and charity. It is a time of spiritual rejuvenation and community gathering.
