Clicks Over Crowds: Online Orders Dull Traditional Eid Bustle in Kashmir
Doorstep delivery, social media marketing reshape festive shopping as markets witness thinner footfall
Srinagar: Ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr, a quiet transformation is reshaping festive traditions in Kashmir, with online marketing and home delivery services steadily replacing the once-vibrant pre-Eid market rush.
For decades, the days leading up to Eid were defined by bustling bazaars, late-night shopping, and crowded bakeries. This year, however, traders across Srinagar say the footfall has noticeably declined as more people turn to their smartphones to place orders from the comfort of their homes.
“Earlier, markets would remain packed till midnight before Eid. Now, many customers prefer ordering bakery items and food online,” said Abdul Rashid, a bakery owner in the city. “Business is still there, but the rush we used to see is missing.”
From traditional bakery products and confectionery to full-fledged wazwan platters, nearly everything is now available at the click of a button. Local businesses, too, have embraced the shift, aggressively promoting Eid offers through social media platforms and messaging apps.
“Most of our orders now come through WhatsApp and social media. Customers just send a list, and we deliver it to their doorstep,” said Irfan Ahmad, who runs a bakery in uptown Srinagar. “It’s convenient for them, but it has reduced physical visits to shops.”
The trend is particularly popular among the younger generation and working professionals, who prefer convenience over crowded marketplaces. “People don’t want to spend hours in traffic and queues. Home delivery saves time and effort, especially during Ramadan,” said a local food entrepreneur.
Even traditional caterers have adapted to the changing landscape, offering pre-booked Eid meal packages online. Many families now opt for ready-made dishes instead of preparing elaborate feasts at home, further reducing the need for last-minute market visits.
However, the shift has left many traders nostalgic. “Eid was not just about shopping; it was about the atmosphere—the lights, the crowds, the excitement,” said Bashir Ahmad, a shopkeeper in Lal Chowk. “Now, markets feel quieter. The spirit is not the same.”
Consumers, meanwhile, view the change as a practical evolution. “Online ordering makes things easier. We can avoid the rush and spend more time with family and prayers,” said Sana Khan, a resident of Rajbagh.
While business continues to flow through digital channels, the fading buzz of packed markets signals a deeper cultural shift in how festivals are experienced in the Valley.
As Eid draws near, Kashmir’s celebration stands at the intersection of tradition and technology—where the charm of crowded streets is gradually returning to the convenience of doorstep deliveries, quietly redefining the festive spirit.
