Staff Reporter :
On the eve of the holy Eid-ul-Fitr, many middle-income earners have flocked to Dhaka’s footpaths for last-minute shopping.
The city’s pavements, usually simple stretches of concrete, have transformed into a vibrant array of colour, fabric, and excitement, drawing thousands of eager shoppers in search of the perfect festive attire.
While retail stores and shopping malls are decked out in dazzling lights and luxurious displays, many middle-class consumers find themselves exploring a different option- the bustling footpath markets.
Here, affordability takes precedence over opulence, and the art of haggling becomes a ritual perfected by buyers and sellers alike.
Various areas of the capital, including Jatrabari, Gulistan, New Market, Farmgate, and Mirpur, are alive with the sounds of families chatting, makeshift stalls being set up, and the lively calls of vendors inviting customers to check out their goods.
Shoppers are on the hunt for everything needed to celebrate Eid-panjabis, trousers, t-shirts, jeans, gabardine pants, footwear, belts, lungis, caps, wallets, children’s clothing, sarees, three-piece suits, skirts, and cosmetics.
For many, the excitement lies in the negotiation process-the back-and-forth between buyer and seller, where both parties often walk away with a smile.
“The prices in big shopping malls are beyond my reach. Here, I can buy clothes and gifts for my family within my budget,” says Rashed Alam, a shopper at New Market, his arms filled with recent purchases.
For street vendors, this season represents a golden opportunity, with sales soaring and profits doubling over the past week.
“People are looking for cheaper alternatives. We try to offer quality products at reasonable prices, and that brings in more customers,” says Selim Mia, a vendor at Farmgate, as he neatly folds a shirt for a waiting buyer.
Amid the rush of shoppers, concerns over security are prevalent, with pickpockets and petty thieves taking advantage of the crowded environment. To address these concerns, police patrol key areas, ensuring a safe shopping experience for all.
This year’s Eid festivities are also affected by rising inflation, which has altered spending patterns. With essential goods taking precedence over luxury items, middle-class families have adapted by seeking more cost-effective alternatives.
“We can’t afford the high prices at big shopping malls, so we rely on footpath markets,” says Rafiq Ahmed, a private-sector employee browsing children’s clothing at New Market. “Here, we find good deals, and if we haggle well, we can save a lot.”
For these budget-conscious consumers, footpath markets are not just a necessity-they are a lifeline, representing resilience, adaptation, and resourcefulness in the face of economic challenges.
As Ramadan comes to an end and Eid approaches in all its splendour, these vibrant street markets serve as a testament to Dhaka’s enduring spirit.
In a city where luxury meets necessity, footpath vendors ensure that the joy of Eid remains accessible to everyone, showing that celebration is not defined by extravagance but by the warmth and togetherness shared with loved ones.
