Eid shopping has kicked off across Chattogram ahead of the holy Eid-ul-Fitr, with bustling crowds thronging shopping centres, traditional markets and street stalls from morning into the night.
Commercial areas have regained their vibrancy, with stores showcasing new designs and an extensive range of clothing that reflect the festive spirit.
In previous years, Eid shopping was largely concentrated around New Market, Riazuddin Bazar, Terribazar and GEC Circle. Now, with shopping centres spread across the city, residents can complete their purchases nearby without travelling far.
Traders said sales were slow at the start of Ramadan but have surged in the middle of the month. Markets become particularly crowded after iftar, leaving shopkeepers struggling to manage the influx of shoppers.
In the past, Eid shopping was largely limited to areas centred around New Market, Riazuddin Bazar, Terribazar and GEC Circle. Now shopping centres have spread across the city, allowing residents to complete their purchases in nearby markets without travelling far.
At various outlets in the New Market area, traders have arranged new collections for women, men and children. A similar scene can be seen at Sanmar Ocean City and Mimi Super Market.
Alongside local and foreign clothing brands, women are showing strong interest in sarees, three-piece outfits, kurtis, lehengas and cotton dresses. Demand for men’s clothing such as panjabis, shirts, T-shirts, jeans and trousers has also increased. Sales of footwear and cosmetics have also risen significantly.
Housewife Ayesha Akter, who came to New Market for shopping, said prices appear slightly higher but Eid shopping is unavoidable.
She said she visited several markets but could not find many new shoe collections.
Private sector employee Ariful Islam, who came to Sanmar Ocean City, said he could not visit during the day due to office work.
He said he had to shop amid heavy crowds after iftar but liked several panjabi and T-shirt designs.
Sales have also increased at the traditional Terribazar and Riazuddin Bazar, where middle- and lower-middle-income shoppers are gathering in search of affordable prices.
Markets there are lively with bargaining and cheerful conversations. Sellers said Pakistani lawn and embroidered three-piece sets, Indian sarees, local boutique clothing, panjabis and children’s garments are selling well.
Among women, light-coloured cotton and silk fabrics are in high demand, while teenage girls and young women are particularly interested in new designs of sarees and jewellery. Toy shops and children’s accessories stores are also seeing strong footfall.
College student Mehedi Hasan said although many items are available online, it is difficult to judge fabric quality without seeing them in person.
He said he came to the market to examine the clothing directly, adding that panjabi prices are relatively high.
Despite some concerns about prices and limited new shoe collections, shoppers remain enthusiastic. Special Eid discounts, ranging from several hundred to a few thousand taka, have added to the festive buzz.
From illuminated stores to vibrant clothing displays and cheerful crowds, Chattogram’s markets are alive with the spirit of Eid, with shoppers eager to share the joy of the festival with family and friends.
