Eid shoppers have increased in various markets, wholesale, and retail outlets in Old Dhaka. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, March 17, 2026 (BSS) - With the Holy Eid-ul-Fitr knocking at the door, 
the number of shoppers has increased in various markets, wholesale and retail 
outlets in Old Dhaka. 

Especially toward the end of Ramadan, people are flocking to markets to buy 
new clothes, shoes, cosmetics, and other essentials for their families and 
relatives.
 
A significant number of retail traders are also seen crowding the wholesale 
markets in the area.

A visit to the spot shows that small and large markets and shops in areas 
such as Lakshmibazar, Chawkbazar, Nawabpur and Sadarghat are witnessing a 
steady flow of customers from noon until late at night. The crowd grows 
heavier as the day progresses. 

In wholesale markets, retailers from different districts and upazilas across 
the country are purchasing clothes and fabrics.
 
Alongside the markets in Old Dhaka, footpath shops in Gulistan and 
Lakshmibazar are also seeing increased customer presence. Lower-and middle-
income people are particularly drawn to these shops due to comparatively 
affordable prices.

Customers say they want to complete their shopping as Eid approaches. Many 
are buying punjabis, pajamas, shirts, pants, T-shirts, sarees, three-piece 
outfits, children's clothing, shoes, and cosmetics for their families. Some 
are also purchasing goods for resale in district and upazila towns.

Sellers report that although sales were relatively slow at the beginning of 
Ramadan, business has picked up significantly toward the end.
 
The markets are most crowded from evening until late at night. While 
wholesale buyers usually make purchases at the start of Ramadan, some are 
also buying goods at the last moment.

Mohammad Alamgir, a garment worker shopping at Lakshmibazar, said, "I came 
here today and completed my Eid shopping for my family. I bought three-piece 
outfits for the girls. Prices are a bit lower here, so I chose to shop from 
this market."

Md. Kamal Hossain, a launch passenger from Barishal, came to Old Dhaka's 
wholesale punjabi market to make purchases. He said, "I'm going home today 
for the Eid holidays. I bought punjabis for myself and my family from Sharif 
Market. Since I'm heading to my village, I like to take something for 
everyone. New clothes during Eid make everyone happy."

Haji Jasim Uddin, a wholesale cloth trader in Islampur, said, "Our business 
does relatively well during the Eid season. Since this is a fabric market, 
sales are strong during this time. Retail traders from different districts 
come here to buy fabrics and ready-made garments. Punjabis, three-piece 
outfits, sarees, pajamas, and children's clothing are in high demand."

Md. Selim Mia, a trader at Sadarghat Hawkers Market, said, "Most of our 
customers are launch passengers. Before going home for Eid, many buy 
punjabis, shirts, T-shirts, pajamas, children's clothing, and shoes from 
here. As Eid gets closer, sales are improving compared to earlier days."