Markets bustled with buzz of Eid shoppers in Khulna


With just two weeks left for Eid-ul-Fitr, the biggest religious festival of Muslims, people have started thronging various markets across Khulna city in a festive mood.
Markets are witnessing a huge crowd of customers, especially those who are keen to buy three-pieces, sarees, and other clothing items for their families, from morning to late night.
During a visit to shopping complexes such as Nixon Market, Khwaza Khanjahan Ali Market, Clay Road, Boro Bazar, Sonadanga Shopping Centre, and KDA New Market, bustling crowds of customers were seen.
Shopkeepers stated that sales have started getting a boost significantly after the 12th day of Ramadan.
Ayub Ali, owner of Kustia Bastraloy in Borobazar, said customers are showing interest in buying locally made three-pieces and sarees.
"This year, country-made brands like Bari, Lucky, Rupkotha, Alikodor, Pakija, Jomjom, Balamkari, Three-De, and Ferdous are in high demand among young women," he said, adding the prices ranging from Tk 550 to Tk 2,000.
Traditional sarees such as Tangail and Jamdani are also popular among women, while digital-print sarees have created a new enthusiasm among Eid shoppers.
Md Mamunur Rashid of Barik Cloth Store noted that many budget-conscious shoppers are purchasing pant pieces, panjabi fabric, and locally made three-pieces from Boro Bazar, which is a popular shopping destination for low and fixed-income groups of people.
Amirul Islam Alif, owner of Pabna Store at KDA New Market, predicted a sharp increase in sales after the 15th of Ramadan, with daily transactions expected to reach Tk 2 lakh, up from the current Tk 30,000-50,000.
Pakistani three-pieces are the top choice among young women this year. Of the three pieces, 'Malhar Cotton' is is priced between Tk 1,500 and Tk 2,500, 'Noor Shipon' between Tk 4,500 and Tk 7,500, 'Shipon Tawakkal' between Tk 3,500 and Tk 7,500, and 'Loon' between Tk 1,500 and Tk 2,000.
Indian Khaddi Jerjote sarees (Tk 6,000-12,000), Soft Benaroshi Katan (Tk 5,500-6,500), Indian Jamdani (Tk 3,200-4,500), South Indian Organza Shipon (Tk 4,000-6,500), Rajasthani Jaypuri Silk (Tk 2,500-4,500), Monipuri sarees from Sylhet (Tk 2,000-2,200), Gadwal Silk (Tk 12,000-13,000), Tangail soft silk (Tk 3,000-10,000), and Belkuchi from Sirajganj (Tk 2,500-4,500) are also among the favourite choices of woman customers, said Alif, who is also joint secretary of the New Market Shops Owners Association.
Imported jeans brands such as DOF, DAPIC, and TOMMY Jeans, priced between Tk 950 and Tk 3,200, are top choices of male customers.
Popular Panjabi brands such as 'Sheikh Shadi,' 'Star,' and 'Top Ten' are being sold between Tk 600 and Tk 2,500 in the city.
Shoppers said that prices of different clothes have decreased by 5 to 10 percent compared to last year, making Eid shopping more affordable for many.
Meanwhile, makeshift shops have sprung up along city pavements, offering budget-friendly fashion items.
According to importers and wholesalers, this year's Eid shopping trends saw a significant shift. Customers are showing interest in purchasing Taiwan and Thailand products such as three-piece sets, shoes, cosmetics, and children's items.
Despite price hikes in certain fabrics like cotton, tissue, silk, and synthetics, markets remain packed with eager shoppers looking for the perfect Eid attire.