Kolkata Markets Experience Surge in Festive Shopping Ahead of Eid
Markets across Kolkata were bustling with activity on Friday, as residents engaged in last-minute shopping in preparation for Eid, which is scheduled for Saturday. From the central areas of the city to popular shopping districts, a steady stream of shoppers was observed throughout the day, purchasing essential items such as sweets, vermicelli, clothing, and other festive goods.
High Demand for Sweets and Traditional Items
Sweet shops and grocery stores in central Kolkata reported significant crowds, with many customers queuing up since early morning. Imran Maqsood, a representative from Karodia Sweet Shop on Rabindra Sarani, highlighted the overwhelming response, stating that their stock of sweets and vermicelli was completely sold out by the afternoon. This trend was mirrored in neighborhood markets, where families were seen making final purchases to ensure everything was ready for the celebrations.
Clothing and Accessories See Strong Interest
On Rabindra Sarani, men's kurta shops were particularly busy, with shoppers searching for new outfits to wear during Saturday's prayers and family gatherings. Additionally, at New Market, a traditional hub for festival shopping, there was a noticeable rush from the morning onwards. Stores and stalls remained open late into the night, offering discounts on garments, footwear, and other festive items. Rashika Meer of Bright Bengal noted a surge in demand for glass bangles, attributing it to social media trends that have sparked a craze among customers this Eid season.
Mixed Sales Performance Amid Economic Concerns
Despite the festive atmosphere, some shopkeepers reported that sales were not as robust as in previous years. Md Shahid Hossain, a shopkeeper at New Market, mentioned that cautious spending by shoppers, possibly influenced by issues such as the LPG problem, led to slightly lower sales. To attract customers, many vendors offered discounts and promotions on their products. Families across the city were also busy with preparations, planning menus, arranging visits, and organizing clothes for the festival, as shared by Mohammad Azhar from Elliot Road.
Overall Festive Spirit Remains High
The overall mood in Kolkata's markets was one of excitement and anticipation, with the festive spirit driving consumer activity. While economic factors may have tempered spending in some areas, the demand for traditional items and festive goods remained strong, reflecting the city's enthusiasm for Eid celebrations.
