Eid Eve: Last-minute shopping frenzy in Dhaka's markets and footpaths

As the city prepares to welcome Eid, Dhaka's residents have immersed themselves in last-minute shopping. 

From upscale shopping centres to bustling footpaths, the capital is teeming with eager shoppers making their final purchases.

A visit to various markets and street stalls across the city reveals a significant increase in the number of shoppers, particularly after sunset. 

Despite having completed most of their Eid shopping, many have realised they still need to buy a few last-minute items, prompting another shopping spree.

Aira Mumtaha, a resident of Shantinagar, came to Mouchak Market to buy a pair of earrings. 

She said, "I thought I had finished all my shopping, but then I realised I hadn't bought earrings to match my dress. So, I came out after Iftar, thinking it wouldn't be too crowded. But the market is absolutely packed."

Parveen Akhter, who travelled from Motijheel to Anarkali Shopping Centre, is shopping for a lighter outfit for her daughter.

"I bought a dress for my daughter at the start of Ramadan when the weather was cooler. But after these last two hot days, I decided to get her a thinner fabric dress. Since I'm already here, I'm also looking for a cotton scarf for myself," she shared.

Shopkeepers across the city confirm the overwhelming turnout of shoppers on Eid eve. 

Many had anticipated a quieter evening due to the early holiday start this year, but the surge of customers since sunset proved otherwise.

Sabbir, a jewellery vendor at City Gold in Mouchak Market, noted, "Small accessories like earrings, rings, and nose pins are selling well. Many customers are matching their jewellery with their outfits."

Another vendor, Shibli, highlighted the demand for household essentials, saying, "It's not just clothing—towels, tissues, and naphthalene are selling fast. 

"Many are also buying new bedsheets. Business has picked up significantly this Eid eve."

Across major shopping centres, women are also queuing up for traditional henna application, adding to the festive atmosphere. Sumaiya, waiting in line for henna, said, "There are different designs at different prices. The rush has been intense since the evening, and many will still be getting their henna done at midnight."

According to shop owners, markets will remain open until 2:00–2:30 am to accommodate the last-minute rush of customers.

Meanwhile, the city's footpaths see a larger crowd of male shoppers. 

Shamim, purchasing jeans from a street vendor in Rampura, mentioned, "I have a night bus to my village, but my younger brother just called and asked me to bring jeans along with a shirt for him. So, here I am, making another last-minute purchase."

Another shopper, Liton, prioritised family over personal shopping. "I always wait until everyone in the family has finished their shopping before I buy anything for myself. Whatever money I have left isn't enough for branded shirts, so I'm getting a good-quality one from a street vendor."

Arman, after struggling to find his size at major shopping malls, resorted to street shopping. "I've been to Bashundhara and Jamuna shopping centres for two days but couldn't find a shirt in my size. Most stock has been out for a week. So, I've come to the footpath to get one."

Mintu, a street vendor on Badda Link Road, shared insights into the importance of Eid eve for small traders. 

"The real business for footpath vendors happens the day before Eid. Last Eid, I sold shirts and trousers worth Tk 50,000 on Chand Raat alone. This time, sales are going strong again."

As Dhaka's residents make their final purchases, ensuring they are dressed their best for Eid, vendors too are eager to maximise profits before heading home to celebrate with their families.