Ranchi gears up for Sarhul and Eid festivities; Markets bustling despite rising prices of essentials

Ranchi: The city came alive in a pre-celebratory mood on Friday as Ranchi prepared for dual celebrations of Sarhul and Eid on Saturday. The festive spirit was palpable across the city, as drum beats, songs and the last Jumma Namaz of Ramadan all reverberated all across.Muslim devotees offered the final Jumma Namaz of Ramadan. Mosques were beautifully illuminated and decorated across the city, adding to the festive atmosphere. On the other hand, members of the tribal community immersed themselves in Sarhul celebrations, a festival that marks the advent of spring and the worship of nature. People from all age groups were seen dancing to traditional beats and singing folk songs. In Ranchi University, students observed pre-Sarhul celebration dancing and singing to the beats of traditional drums. Nisha Oraon, a student participating in the celebration, said, “Every year, a pre-celebration is organised in the university. Today, we danced, sang and prayed, gearing up for the Sarhul celebration on Saturday.”Markets across Ranchi buzzed with activity as people thronged shops to purchase essentials for Eid. From traditional attire to food items such as dates, dry fruits, and spices, vendors reported brisk business throughout the day.“Although the prices of essential items ahead of Eid have witnessed a surge due to the ongoing escalation in West Asia, it has not dampened the festive spirit. Despite the price rise, people bought the essentials for the yearly festival,” Amil Izaz, a dry-fruit seller in the city’s Upper Bazar, said.