Lucknow Markets Experience Ramzan Shopping Frenzy for Sehri and Iftar Essentials
Over the past week, markets across Lucknow have seen a significant surge in footfall as families flock to stock up on essentials for the holy month of Ramzan. This festive period, associated with fasting and spiritual devotion, has sparked a bustling shopping scene focused on preparations for 'sehri' (pre-dawn meals) and 'iftar' (sunset meals).
Spike in Food and Grocery Sales
Shopkeepers report that business has picked up dramatically, with shoppers eagerly purchasing aromatic spices, dry fruits, dates, vermicelli, and 'lachchhe'—swirls of vermicelli popular during Ramzan. Khalida Parveen, a shopper at Nakhas market, emphasized the communal aspect, stating, "Ramzan is not just about fasting, it's also about togetherness," as she bought dates and fruits.
Vendors note brisk sales of imported dates, rose syrup, dry fruits, and ready-to-cook snacks that are staples for the fasting month. Mahjabeen Bano, shopping at Aminabad market, shared her family's preferences: "My children love to eat lachchhe in sehri and fried papad in iftar, so I have purchased four different varieties of papad and fries."
Garment and Religious Item Demand Soars
The shopping rush extends beyond food, with heavy crowds at garment stores. Storefronts are adorned with racks of embroidered burqas, abayas (designer veils), colorful hijabs, while men queue up for kurta-pyjamas, sherwanis, and fabric. This reflects the tradition of dressing up for prayers and gatherings during Ramzan.
Associated with spiritual purification, the month also sees higher sales of religious scriptures and worship-related items. Shoppers are purchasing tasbeeh (rosary), the holy Quran, and namaz caps, highlighting the devotional aspect of the season.
Market Insights and Economic Impact
Sanjay Gupta, President of the UP Adarsh Vyapar Mandal, commented on the economic boost: "The sale of clothes, food, and ready-to-cook items has increased in Old City markets like Chowk, Nakhas, and Aminabad due to Ramzan." This surge underscores how religious observances drive local commerce, with markets becoming hubs of activity and community interaction.
Overall, the festive atmosphere in Lucknow's markets showcases a blend of culinary traditions, fashion trends, and spiritual practices, making Ramzan a key period for both personal devotion and economic vitality in the city.
