Barisal: Shopping malls in Barishal city have started experiencing a significant influx of shoppers as Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, with local sarees and Punjabis being preferred by many.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, sellers in various shopping malls across the city are busy attending to customers, as each shopping center draws large crowds. In preparation for Eid, malls and shopping centers have been adorned with colorful lights, and traders have displayed their apparel collections in a decorative manner. Families were seen frequenting apparel stores and showrooms, while shoe stores attracted numerous customers. Tailoring shops are also experiencing a busy period, with larger establishments having stopped taking new orders since last week.
Simu, Mithila, and Sharmin, who traveled from Gournadi Upazila, shared their shopping experiences. They mentioned not having visited Barishal for Eid shopping in recent years, but this year they have visited various shopping malls several times since the beginning of the second week of Ramadan. They aim to complete their shopping early to avoid the crowds typical of the last week of Ramadan. However, they noted that prices are somewhat higher this year.
Mrinal Kanti Saha from Swadeshi Bastralay in Chawkbazar reported a demand for modern designs of both domestic and foreign sarees. He anticipates that sales will increase significantly in the final week of Ramadan. Monirul Islam, a prominent businessman from Chawkbazar, observed that shopping crowds have also been seen at Venus Market, Hemayet Uddin Road, and Chaiti Market. He mentioned that special security measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of traders and buyers during the Eid shopping season.
Jewel Shah Kabir Shaheen, former president of Rotary International and a well-known businessman in the city, highlighted the high demand for both local and foreign clothes this year. He noted that local brands offer diverse designs, with prices varying based on quality and modernity. Men are favoring local fatwa and Punjabi, while three-piece suits and sarees are the top choices for women.