Last-minute Eid shopping frenzy in Dhaka

With Eid-ul-Fitr just around the corner, Dhaka’s streets, footpaths, and markets have turned into bustling hubs as thousands of residents rush for last-minute shopping.

From clothing and footwear to gifts and festive accessories, vendors across the capital -- including in areas such as Mirpur-10, Mirpur-1, Farmgate, New Market, Gausia, Chawk Bazar, and Karwan Bazar -- are witnessing a surge in activity.

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Shoppers were seen thronging the narrow lanes lined with colourful stalls, while street vendors, small shops, and makeshift stalls catered to their festive needs by offering everything from traditional panjabis and sarees to decorative items and toys.

Sheikh Shafiqul Islam, a customer at Mirpur-1, said, “I received my Eid bonus on Sunday, but could not shop on Monday. So I came today to buy dresses for my family members.”

He added that he spent modestly, buying only a pair of shoes for himself, as he did not want to exhaust his bonus due to concerns over the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Shaheen Ahmed, an employee at Mirpur Milk Vita, said that although he had completed some shopping days earlier, he returned to Mirpur-10 roundabout to buy a few remaining items.

“I purchased two pairs of jeans today for Tk 1,200 for me and my son,” he said.

Ibrahim Khalil, who has been selling dresses for six years at Mirpur-10 roundabout, said the crowd was smaller compared to previous years.

“Customers from different economic levels, especially those from low-income groups, come to purchase dresses and shoes from footpath stalls. We are still hopeful for a bigger rush in the next two days before Eid,” he said.

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Large crowds were observed around shops selling dresses, shoes, and cosmetics at Muktijoddha Market and Cooperatives Market at Mirpur-1.

Mofizul Islam, a Mirpur resident, said he went to Cooperatives Market after receiving his salary and bonus yesterday.

“I am buying three-piece outfits and shoes for my wife and younger sister, a lungi and panjabi for my father, and shoes and dresses for my children,” he said.

Mehedi Hasan, who planned to travel to Barishal by launch yesterday, purchased multiple items from Karwan Bazar Supermarket, including shirts, three-piece outfits, and panjabis for his family and close relatives.

“I am going straight to Sadarghat launch terminal after shopping. I try to give everyone dresses during Eid and come to this market to buy at lower prices,” he explained.

Abdul Jalil Mollah, proprietor of Messer’s Bhai Bhai Saree House, noted that although customer numbers increased yesterday, the sales have not been as expected.

“Sales have been declining for the past few years and have dropped noticeably this year,” he said.