Eid shopping: Markets in J&K's Srinagar witness huge festive rush
Srinagar, May 26
The markets across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in Srinagar, are experiencing a significant festive rush with people shopping for Eid.
All big and small markets in Srinagar and other towns in Kashmir were witnessing heavy footfall, causing traffic congestion.
People came out early to buy essentials of life so that their families have enough to celebrate the Eid al-Adha festival on Wednesday in the union territory.
Shops selling bakery, mutton, poultry, and hosiery were witnessing huge crowds. And children thronging toy markets brought Srinagar city to life early today.
People carrying bags of foodstuffs and other essentials were seen jostling with each other to negotiate the heavy traffic on city roads, as traffic snarls resulted in confusion and chaos in some places.
Many makeshift shops set up by pavement sellers have added to the choking of pedestrian spaces in uptown Srinagar city as police try to be polite and lenient on the eve of the Eid festival, so that the pavement sellers can do some business and share the joys of the festival with their families.
The most sought-after on this Eid are the animal markets full of sheep and goats brought to the city from far-off places like Poonch, Rajouri and even from Delhi and Rajasthan.
Well-fed and well-kept sheep and goats are reared by sheep and goatherds to sell them at handsome prices on Eid al-Adha. Authorities have deployed teams of checking squads to ensure that prices remain under control and all the edibles sold on Eid are fresh and fit for human consumption. There is no shortage of essentials in the valley, and despite this, some unscrupulous traders try to exploit the buyers' rush to unreasonably hike prices.
Following the centuries-old tradition, Muslims throughout the world offer animal sacrifices on Eid al-Adha, also called the Bakr Eid. Muslims believe that the spirit behind these animal sacrifices is to commemorate the greatest submission to Allah's command and total submission of humankind to God's mercy.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Beautiful to see Srinagar bustling with such life! I'm from Mumbai but I've always dreamed of visiting Kashmir during Eid. The images of people buying sheep and goats from markets, and children playing with toys... it's so heartwarming. But hope the administration keeps tight control on prices. Unscrupulous traders should not spoil the festive mood.
Eid celebrations in Kashmir have always been special. The article says traffic congestion and chaos - that's the real picture. But it's good that police are being lenient with pavement sellers. However, I'm concerned about the hygiene of meat sold during this rush. Hope the checking squads are doing their job properly. Freshness is key when it comes to Qurbani. 🥩
Must be a magical sight! As someone who has only seen Kashmir in photos, reading about this festive rush makes me want to plan a trip there. The tradition of Bakr Eid and animal sacrifices is fascinating. But I hope the authorities manage the crowds well - safety first. Also, it's great that essentials are not in shortage.
I'm a Hindu but I love the spirit of Eid in Kashmir! The markets, the food, the togetherness - it's all so beautiful. But honestly, I wish the traffic management was better. Every year it's the same story. Also, I hope the animals are well treated before sacrifice. Tradition is important but so is humanity. Bakr Eid Mubarak to everyone! ❤️
R We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.