Rajshahi: With 11-12 days left for Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the biggest religious festivals for Muslims, Rajshahi city has been caught up in Eid shopping fever. Modern and traditional shopping malls are bustling with shoppers from all strata, as thousands of people throng markets encouraged by a significant decrease in clothing prices compared to last year.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, silk wear worth Taka 40-45 crore is expected to be sold during this Eid season. Silk fabrics, woven and designed by local artisans, are in huge demand in the Eid markets of the city, with affluent shoppers visiting the city silk showrooms daily. The silk industry in Rajshahi is witnessing a boom, with showrooms packed with eager customers.
The manufacturing and marketing of silk clothes have become vibrant on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, with factories operating round the clock to meet rising demand. Employees are working tirelessly day and night, especially in BSCIC silk factories and the government silk factory. “Sales are relatively high this year, and the workload is also heavy,” said Samrat Ali, a Rajshahi silk artisan, noting that sarees, three-pieces, and panjabis remain the most sought-after items.
Salesmen in different markets, footpaths, and makeshift sales centers are busy from morning to midnight as shoppers of all ages gather there. “I’m purchasing ladies and gents wear, cosmetics, and some food items this time to avoid the last moment’s unusual public rush and chaotic traffic jam,” said Afroja Khatun, a resident of Sagorpara, while talking to BSS at Shaheb Bazar.
Market sources indicate that the overall sale is much higher this year due to an improvement in the economic condition of people from all classes. Authorities have deployed additional law enforcers at different points and markets, and engaged private security men at shopping malls, creating a fool-proof security arrangement for both businessmen and shoppers.
Rajshahi Metropolitan Traffic Police sources report that the movement of thousands of battery-run auto-rickshaws has impacted the traffic situation, although it remains manageable. The RMP traffic department has blocked most intersections in front of markets and shopping malls to ensure uninterrupted vehicle movement. Nur Alam Siddiqui, Deputy Commissioner (Traffic) in RMP, stated that police boxes have been set up beside the gates of all busy markets, with officials actively educating the public about the traffic system.
Tariqul Islam, a cloth trader at Shaheb Bazar, noted that he had not faced any untoward situations since the start of Ramadan. “We are doing brisk business ahead of the forthcoming Eid, but the shoppers are facing embarrassing situations due to the chaotic traffic jam,” said Shafiqul Islam, another businessman at RDA market.
Saidul Islam, owner of Laboni Saree Ghar at Rajshahi New Market, reported that the volume of sales is much higher this year. Popular items include Salwar-Kameez for girls, sarees with embroidery and stone work, panjabis, shirts, and footwear, with products from local fashion houses drawing the most attention.
Shopping centers, including RDA Market, New Market, and Sonadighi Silk Market, are witnessing heavy crowds, with buyers actively bargaining for the best deals. Adolescents and young women are particularly drawn to three-piece dresses in trending designs of the year. Buyers from affluent backgrounds are selecting items without concern for price, while middle and lower-income groups are bargaining with sellers to get the best deals. Traders remain optimistic, expecting sales to increase further as Eid approaches.