Ramazan brings a feast for Srinagar’s business owners as sales skyrocket

As the holy month of Ramazan continues, markets across Srinagar are buzzing with activity. Vendors, shopkeepers, and restaurant owners are witnessing a surge in sales as shoppers prepare for Sehri and Iftar, driving up demand for fresh produce, dates, bakery items, and essential groceries.
Key markets such as Lal Chowk, Maharaj Gunj, Rajouri Kadal, and Jamia Masjid are packed with buyers stocking up on food supplies, providing a much-needed boost to local businesses. The demand for fruits—an essential part of Iftar meals—has soared. Apples, bananas, and melons are in high demand, while dates, a key item for breaking the fast, are flying off the shelves.
“People are buying fruits and dates in large quantities. Sales are significantly better than usual,” said Imtiaz Ahmad, a fruit vendor at Lal Chowk. Arshid Hussain, another vendor, added, “We’ve been stocking up more than usual, yet everything sells out by the evening.”
To meet the growing demand, the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Association (KVFGDU) has assured a steady supply of fresh produce. “Every day, around 5,000 to 6,000 fruit boxes arrive in Kashmir, with 400-500 boxes per vehicle,” said Bashir Ahmad Basheer, Chairman of KVFGDU. “We are ensuring a consistent supply from other regions to prevent shortages.”
This year, local markets are also offering a wider variety of dates, including premium options like Medjool, Mabroom, and Sukkari, imported from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Algeria, and Tunisia. Consumers are becoming more selective, seeking specific varieties rather than relying on vendor recommendations.
“People now ask for particular types of dates instead of just picking whatever is available,” shared Khurshid, a local trader. Abdul Hameed, who owns a dry fruit shop in Koker Bazaar, noted, “Customers are more aware of quality and origin. Medjool dates, despite being expensive, are selling exceptionally well.”
Restaurants and eateries are also capitalizing on the Ramazan rush by offering exclusive Iftar menus, drawing large crowds after sunset. The famous barbecue market at Khayam has become a popular gathering spot for families and friends enjoying post-Iftar meals. “Iftar is the perfect time to step out with family and enjoy a meal outside,” said Ajaz Ahmad, a regular visitor. A vendor selling kebabs at Khayam Chowk added, “This is the best time for business. By sunset, we barely get a moment to breathe.”
Several restaurants have introduced Iftar platters featuring dates, kebabs, and refreshing drinks, catering to those who prefer dining out. “We launched an Iftar buffet this year, and the response has been overwhelming,” said Lateef, a restaurant owner in Lal Chowk. Another restaurateur, Arshad, added, “We’ve had to increase our seating capacity as more people prefer breaking their fast here with family and friends.”
Local business owners are optimistic about sustaining this momentum throughout Ramazan. “This year, we’re seeing a much better response compared to previous years. People are spending more, which is a positive sign for the local economy,” said Hilal, a shopkeeper in Maharaj Bazaar.
As the month progresses, businesses expect demand to remain high, especially in the days leading up to Eid, when shopping for new clothes, sweets, and gifts reaches its peak. “The real rush starts in the last ten days. That’s when the markets are at their busiest,” said Tariq Mir, a shopkeeper in Batamaloo.