SRINAGAR — The hustle and bustle of Ramzan shopping has reached its peak across Kashmir Valley, with markets witnessing heavy footfall as Muslims prepare for the holy fasting month, likely to begin on Thursday, subject to the sighting of the moon.
Sales of dates and dry fruits have picked up sharply in the days leading up to Ramzan, with families stepping out in large numbers to purchase essentials for iftar and sehri.
In Srinagar, shops dealing in dry fruits reported a surge in customers, with dates, almonds, raisins, cashews, walnuts and figs in high demand ahead of the month that culminates with Eid-ul-Fitr.
“The sale of dates has picked up in the last couple of days. Around 30 varieties are currently available, and more are arriving,” said Parviaz Ahmad, a dry-fruit seller at Maharaj Bazar here.
Muslims traditionally break their fast with dates, which hold religious significance, though over the years a variety of snacks, fruits and desserts have also become part of the iftar spread.
“Dates are an essential part of Ramzan, so their sales naturally rise during this time,” said Umar Mehraj, another shopkeeper, adding that varieties such as Kalami, Ajwa, Safavi, Marghoob and Medjool are selling briskly.
He said dates sourced from Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Algeria and Iran are available in local markets, with prices varying depending on quality and size.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired a meeting to review Ramzan arrangements and directed concerned departments to ensure seamless public-service delivery, effective grievance redressal and necessary facilities at major places of worship to ensure a peaceful holy month.
Police teams, along with revenue and food safety officials, have also carried out extensive market inspections across the Valley, checking grocery shops, vendors, meat sellers and bakeries for hygiene, quality, rate lists and overcharging. Action has been taken against violators, officials said. — (PTI)