Ahead of Ramadhan, Srinagar markets abuzz with festive bustle

Srinagar, Feb 17: With Ramadhan just a day away, markets across Srinagar have transformed into a buzzing place with festive bustle.

Like every year, the days ahead of the holy month have brought a distinct festive atmosphere as families step out to stock up essentials for Iftar and Sehri.

In Downtown’ major markets Bohri Kadal and Maharaj Gunj, narrow lanes are lined with sacks and trays of dates, dry fruits, figs, basil seeds, gond katira, and other Ramadan-specific items. The visual is repeated in markets of Batamaloo, Hazratbal, and the city centre, where shopfronts are decorated with carefully arranged varieties, inviting passersby to pause and sample.

At Kokar Bazar in the heart of the city, Mohammad Shafi, a wholesaler, has been in the dry fruit trade for nearly two decades. “I started around 20 years ago. Back then, options were limited. Over the years, many new varieties of dates and dry fruits have reached Kashmir, and customers are far more aware about quality,” he said.

According to Shafi, dates such as Safavi, Zaydi, Sukhri, Sugai, Mabroom, Majdool, and Ajwa dominate Ramadan shopping lists, with prices ranging roughly between Rs 400 and Rs 1,000 per kg or more, depending on quality and size.

“People now plan their Ramadhan diet carefully. Many see this month as a time to realign their lifestyle and eating habits,” he added, noting that traders usually import special stock nearly a month in advance. Items used for kheer, Kashmiri firni, and other traditional dishes are procured early to meet the seasonal surge in demand.

In Downtown’s Maharaj Gunj, considered one of the oldest trading hubs of the city, another vendor said the atmosphere itself pulls people in. “These markets have a soul during Ramadhan. Even if sales fluctuate, the footfall creates hope,” he said.

Traders are also adapting to the times. Several shopkeepers said they are using social media platforms to announce Ramadhan offers and bumper deals, especially for customers buying in bulk for the entire month.

At MA Road in Lal Chowk, Samiullah, who runs a dry fruit shop, admitted that purchasing power has declined over the years. “Expenses are high, and people think twice before spending. But Ramadhan is different. We expect better sales in the coming days,” he said.

Shoppers seem keen despite concerns over prices. A customer at Kokar Bazar said he had come early to avoid last minute rush. “Ramadhan is around the corner. I bought five kilograms of high-quality dates for the holy month. Downtown and Kokar Bazar are still the best when it comes to quality,” he said.