Residents frustrated over pricey clothes
Staff Reporter :
As the holy month of Ramadan nears its conclusion, the capital city of the country pulsates with the energy of last-minute Eid-ul-Fitr shopping.
With the joyous occasion just around the corner, the city’s markets and malls are experiencing a surge in activity. Eager shoppers are flocking in droves to secure their Eid essentials.
On Monday, April 8th, Dhaka’s streets buzzed with a frenetic energy, particularly in iconic shopping areas like the bus terminals, Shonir Akhara, and Matuail.
These hubs, along with numerous others across the city, have transformed into vibrant Eid markets, attracting people from all walks of life. The atmosphere crackles with excitement as shoppers race to secure their desired items before the festivities begin.
From traditional attire like kurtas and lungis for men and saris for women, to modern options like shirts, pants, and t-shirts, a diverse array of clothing options adorn the displays in markets and malls.
Three-piece suits, children’s wear, caps, and accessories are also in high demand, creating a dazzling tapestry of Eid fashion. Shoe stores and cosmetics shops are experiencing a similar boom, as customers meticulously assemble their perfect Eid ensembles.
This surge in buyers has translated into a significant boost for sellers, who are working tirelessly to meet the ever-escalating demand. The current holiday season has further intensified the crowds, making it a challenging yet profitable time for retailers.
Accompanied by their families, shoppers are on a mission to find the best deals on clothing and household items. However, amidst the excitement, complaints about soaring prices echo through the markets.
Tahamina Yasmin, a college student, expressed her dismay at the noticeable increase in clothing prices compared to the previous year. Similarly, Anju Ara Begum, a homemaker, lamented the rising costs of Eid attire, citing a significant hike in prices from last year.
According to Anwarul Haque, a women’s fashion seller, the price surge extends beyond clothing, affecting various commodities across the country. Despite their efforts to keep prices reasonable, sellers are compelled to adjust their rates to cover rising procurement costs.
As the day progresses, sales peak in the evening hours, with shops staying open until late to accommodate the influx of customers. With today being a government holiday, the footfall is expected to be even higher than usual, indicating a bustling day for retailers.
Looking ahead, astronomers predict that Ramadan may span 30 days this year, potentially impacting the timing of Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. While some countries, including Saudi Arabia, may observe Eid on April 10, Bangladesh typically celebrates Eid the following day, on April 11.
As the city brims with anticipation and activity, Dhaka’s residents eagerly prepare to usher in the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, despite the challenges posed by escalating prices.
