Ramzan rush grips Belagavi market

Photo: Festive atmosphere prevailed at Belagavi markets on SundayBelagavi: With Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 expected to be celebrated on March 20 or 21, subject to moon sighting, markets in Belagavi took on a festive atmosphere. Increased shopping activity ahead of the festival led to heavy congestion in major market areas, as people rushed to purchase clothes, food items and essentials in the run-up to Eid.Against the backdrop of Ramzan, the Belagavi district, including the city, is in a festive mood. The colourful light illuminations are eye-catching in the Darbar Galli and Khanjar Galli areas of Belagavi. This time, the sun is shining brightly, and the environment is hot, but it did not reduce the crowd in the market. As usual, people from Maharashtra and Goa are stepping into Belagavi for festive shopping.The holy book of Islam, the Quran, decorative items, hats and clothes of various designs, ready-made garments and saris, and perfumes are mostly sold. It is seen that young people are also showing a preference for buying kurta pyjama jubbas. The sale and consumption of non-vegetarian dishes in the market increased.Shopping sprees are seen in the markets from morning until late at night. The food market opens in the evening, and sales increase. Sales of leading desserts, dry fruits and soft drinks are booming. The market witnesses a large food sale in the evening, drawing crowds until late at night.War crisisDuring Ramzan, Muslims fast for more than 14 hours, so they eat a lot of nutritious dates and dried fruits. As a result of the war, the quantity of dates imported from Arab countries to the Belagavi market decreased, leading to an increase in the price of dried fruits. Fruits from different companies in the Arab region came to the market, with tagged prices. Traders say that the price of vermicelli from various companies used to make sheer kurma ranges from Rs 100 to 150 per kg.Global events also dampened the celebrations of the holy month of Ramzan. Consumers reported that dates and other dry fruits that were arriving in the market were less in quantity this time, leading to an increase in prices.On the occasion of Ramzan, iftar parties are being organised on the premises of various mosques and dargahs in Belagavi city. Some are inviting those who are fasting to their homes and hosting meals, not just Muslims.City police commissioner Bhushan Borase and SP Ramarajan said that the police department is cooperating by facilitating the celebration of Ramzan in a peaceful and harmonious manner in Belagavi district. He clarified that he will not hesitate to take strict legal action against those who violate the rules.