Is Eid Shopping in Kashmir Surging as Markets Come Alive?

Srinagar, June 5 (NationPress) Traffic congestion, crowded pedestrian malls filled with street vendors, and numerous sacrificial animal markets are characteristic of the Eid al-Adha shopping scene in the cities and towns across Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar.

Despite initial concerns about diminished enthusiasm among shoppers for the Eid eve preparations, Kashmiris have emerged in large numbers, radiating joy and excitement as they prepare to celebrate the holiest festival of Bakr Eid or Eid al-Adha on June 7. This festival also symbolizes the successful completion of the Hajj pilgrimage.

Shops selling baked goods, clothing, and poultry were bustling with customers, but the primary focus remained on the sacrificial animal markets.

The largest sacrificial animal market in the city, located at the Eidgah grounds, showcased flocks of sheep, goats, and a few camels available for purchase by the faithful. While prices at various sacrificial animal markets remained competitive and reasonable, premium breeds of sheep and goats were slightly more expensive than average varieties.

Muslims globally perform animal sacrifices during Bakr Eid to honor the sacrifice made by Prophet Abraham, who, in obedience to Allah's command, prepared to sacrifice his son, Ismail. When Prophet Abraham blindfolded himself and began to cut Ismail's throat, a sheep sent from Heaven replaced Ismail as he stood smiling nearby. This act of ultimate submission to Allah's will transformed into a grand celebration as Abraham returned home with his son Ismail, hand in hand, in joy.

This festival commemorates the profound sacrifice that Prophet Abraham was willing to make and the even greater blessing from Allah for accepting that sacrifice and saving Ismail. Muslims worldwide partake in the celebrations of Bakr Eid, a day filled with immense joy yet serving as a universal reminder that all lies in the hands of God, regardless of how believers refer to Him.

Children accompanied by parents flocked to the markets, eager to purchase toys and new outfits as Kashmiris momentarily set aside financial constraints. Locals indulge in lavish spending during the Eid festival, cherishing this rare occasion of joy and faith marked by prayers and celebrations.

For a change, traffic officers displayed leniency towards motorists and street vendors. Motorists, neglecting traffic rules, obstructed both major and minor thoroughfares in the city, while vendors displayed their goods on pedestrian malls, compelling pedestrians to navigate through the streets.

Having endured the most horrific violence perpetrated by terrorists over the past 35 years, Kashmiris are progressively charting a path towards peace and tranquility, adorned with joyful festivals such as Eid, Shivratri, Gurupurab, Christmas, and Buddha Purnima.