Eid shopping gathers pace as Kashmir markets lure buyers with bumper discounts
Garment, footwear and bakery traders roll out festive sales; shoppers throng markets as Eid fervour returns across Valley
Our Special Correspondent
Srinagar: Markets across Kashmir have begun buzzing with activity as traders roll out bumper discounts and festive sales, drawing shoppers in large numbers ahead of Eid.
After witnessing a relatively slow start to the festive season, shopkeepers across the Valley have introduced attractive offers on garments, footwear, cosmetics and household items, prompting a surge in footfall in major markets.
From Srinagar’s bustling commercial hubs to district headquarters across the Valley, shops are displaying colourful Eid collections with banners announcing “Eid Sale”, “Flat Discounts” and “Festive Offers”, creating a lively atmosphere in marketplaces.
“We have offered discounts of up to 40 per cent on many items and that has brought customers back to the markets,” said Fayaz Ahmad, a garment trader in Srinagar. “In the past few days, footfall has increased significantly, especially during evening hours.”
Shoppers could be seen moving from shop to shop, selecting clothes, shoes and accessories as families prepare for Eid celebrations.
“For us Eid shopping is a tradition. We come to the market with the whole family to buy clothes and gifts,” said Shabnam Bano, a shopper. “The discounts this year are quite helpful because prices are generally high.”
Traders dealing in traditional wear and children’s clothing said festive offers have helped revive business and lift the mood among shopkeepers.
“Initially the markets were quiet and we were worried,” said Mushtaq Ahmad, a trader in south Kashmir. “But once the sales started and we reduced prices, customers started returning. The last few days before Eid are always crucial.”
The fwestive rush has also spread to bakeries and sweet shops where traditional Eid delicacies are witnessing brisk demand.
“There is a clear rise in customers buying bakery items, cakes and sweets,” said Aamir Hussain, a bakery owner. “People want to celebrate Eid with the best preparations and that brings them to the markets.”
Many shopkeepers say they have kept prices competitive to ensure families can complete their Eid shopping comfortably.
“We understand that people are facing economic pressures,” said Bilal Ahmad, a footwear seller. “That is why traders have collectively decided to give good discounts so that everyone can celebrate Eid happily.”
Shoppers also said the lively market atmosphere adds to the excitement of the festival.
“The markets feel vibrant again. Lights, decorations and crowds remind us that Eid is near,” said Rafiqa Begum, another shopper.
Markets in districts including Anantnag, Baramulla, Pulwama, Budgam and Kupwara have also reported a noticeable increase in footfall, with many shops remaining open late into the evening to accommodate the growing rush.
Traders say Eid remains one of the most important business seasons of the year and hope the final days before the festival will bring even stronger sales.
“With just a few days left, we expect the rush to grow further,” said Fayaz Ahmad. “Eid markets in Kashmir traditionally peak at the last moment, and we are hopeful the coming days will be very good for business.”
As colourful shop fronts glow under festive lights and crowds fill the markets, the Valley’s bazaars are once again reflecting the warmth, excitement and tradition that mark the arrival of Eid.
