Srinagar, March 12: The arrival of Ramadan has brought a surge in business across Kashmir’s mar-kets, with traders, vendors and shopkeepers witnessing a sharp rise in sales. From dry fruits and dates to bakery items, beverages and apparel, demand has soared as shopping habits shift during the fasting month.
Markets in Lal Chowk, Maharaj Gunj, and the old city are bustling with shoppers stocking up on es-sentials for Sehri (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (breaking of fast). Dates remain the most sought-after item, with vendors displaying a variety of imported options from Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran, includ-ing premium Ajwa and Medjool. “Ramadan is our busiest season. The demand for dates is over-whelming, and stocks sell out quickly,” said Fayaz Ahmad, a wholesale trader in Srinagar.
Beverage sellers also report brisk sales, as Rooh Afza, lemonade, basil drinks, and date shakes be-come Ramadan staples. Local bakeries and confectioners are thriving, with traditional Kashmiri breads like Baqerkhani, alongside pastries and cakes, in high demand. “Customers start placing or-ders well in advance,” said Jameel Mushtaq, a bakery owner in Srinagar.
Street vendors, selling traditional Kashmiri snacks, see their earnings double during Ramadan. “Peo-ple rush to buy Iftar snacks, making this our most profitable month,” said Tufail Ahmed, a street vendor in Maharaj Gunj.
Sweet shops also experience a spike in sales, with Phirni and Sevaiyan in constant demand. “Phirni is a must-have dessert after Iftar, and we prepare extra batches daily,” said Anees Sajad, a depart-mental store owner in Fateh Kadal. Meanwhile, garment and footwear shops witness a festive rush, as people begin Eid shopping well in advance. Women, in particular, flock to boutiques and clothing outlets in search of new attire for the celebration. As Ramadan progresses, Kashmir’s markets con-tinue to thrive, reflecting the festive spirit and economic boost the holy month brings along.
