Photo: BSS

By Mofazzal Hossain 

BARISHAL, March 15, 2026 (BSS) - As Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, markets and shopping malls are witnessing a surge of shoppers in the final days of Ramadan in the district's different markets. 

Traders have decorated their stores with new clothing collections to attract customers, while law enforcement agencies have strengthened security measures to ensure safe shopping for everyone.

In the city's traditional Chawkbazar market, one of the most popular destinations for Eid shopping-especially for women and children-crowds have significantly increased. 

The market offers a wide range of items including sarees, three-piece dresses, shoes, and cosmetics. With only a few days left before Eid, the area has become packed with shoppers looking for festive outfits.

This year, in addition to locally popular styles, clothing such as Persian and Naira designs have gained attention among buyers. However, many customers complain that prices are higher than last year.

Anisur Rahman, who came to buy Eid clothes, said the quality of clothes in the market is good but the prices are very high. "The prices are beyond the reach of ordinary buyers like us. If the government took steps to control market prices, it would be better for everyone," he said.

Muntaha, a young shopper visiting the market with her father, said she has already chosen her preferred dress. "My parents came with me to buy Eid clothes. I chose a dress I like, and we also bought a Pakistani dress for my younger sister," she said.

Another shopper, Sonia Begum, said that although many brands are available in the market, the prices are noticeably higher than last year. "I want to buy clothes for everyone in my family, but the prices are quite high," she said.

Lovely Akhter, another buyer, expressed concerns about the financial pressure on middle-class families. "We are trying to buy something for everyone despite our limited means. It would help a lot if the government could control market prices," she said.

Traders say this year's Eid market features many new clothing styles. Dresses are being sold under various names such as Naira, Sharara, Gaira, Pakistani, Indian, and Persian. Among these, Sharara, Gaira, and Persian designs are especially popular, with prices ranging from Taka 3,000 to Taka 15,000.

Customers are also showing interest in Jamdani, Silk Jamdani, and B-Plus sarees, which are being sold between Taka 2,000 and Taka 5,000. 

Handcrafted silk three-piece outfits and embroidered three-pieces are also available. Other popular items such as White Bahar, Organza, and Persian Kamiz are being sold for Taka 1,500 to Taka 3,000.

Despite complaints about high prices, traders say business has been good due to the large number of shoppers.

Seller Shabilu Das said sales are increasing as Eid approaches. "The market is crowded and business is good. We hope sales will increase even more in the remaining days of Ramadan," he said.