Srinagar markets abuzz with brisk sale of dates

Srinagar, Mar 9: Markets in the summer capital are witnessing huge rush mainly for different varieties of dates to break the fast.

This year, many varieties of dates are available in markets, giving people a wide choice.  “There are over two dozen date varieties that are present in Srinagar markets right now. People are buying dates as per their taste and budget.

There is a buyer for every kind of variety. Although the steady sales of dates are ongoing throughout the year, as Ramadhan approaches, the sales skyrocket and dozens of varieties are imported from the Middle East countries,” said Bashir Ahmad, a trader from Hazratbal.

The traders said that among various date varieties, few are more popular in Kashmir that include, Kalmi, Ajwa and others.

“There are other date varieties like Medjool, Sukkari, Anbara, Sagai, Zahidi, Khudri, Mabroom and others. All of them differ in taste, size, and nutrition, and people prefer them accordingly,” said another trader from Downtown.

The markets like Maharaja Bazar, Nowhatta, Bohri Kadal, Maharaj Gunj, Hazratbal, and other Downtown markets are known for best quality dates that are imported from different countries. The Srinagarites were seen buying these Ramadhan delicacies weeks before the start of Ramadan.

“Iftar is incomplete without dates in Islamic tradition. More than the health benefits, it is the spiritual touch that makes it a must-have,. This makes having it during Ramadhan a Sunnah. I remember that a few decades back, there were just a couple of date varieties, and mostly there were dry dates, but as the imports have increased and people have also known the value of consuming dates, the markets are flooded with new varieties every year. I go to various markets to choose the best date variety, and this year I went for Ajwa, which is the most famous variety,” said Muhammad Sultan, a shopper at Downtown.

Experts state that dates are a powerhouse of nutrition and offer various health benefits depending on the variety. Dates like Medjool provide a natural energy boost, making them ideal for breaking fast. Barhi dates, on the other hand, are rich in antioxidants, while Ajwa dates are particularly beneficial for heart health.  Traders say that many customers demand Safawi dates and Kalmi dates due to their ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This makes such dates best for diabetic patients.