Thousands of shoppers thronged Srinagar’s markets on Friday as preparations intensified for Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Massive crowds were seen in key shopping areas, including Goni Khan Market and Jamia Masjid market in Nowhatta, with similar bustling scenes in north Kashmir’s Baramulla and south Kashmir’s Anantnag.
Clothing stores, eateries, and bakeries were jam-packed as people flocked to purchase essentials and festive items.
Jammu and Kashmir has experienced continuous rainfall over the past three days, drenching several low-lying areas in Srinagar.
However, the enthusiasm among shoppers remained undimmed, with rain having little impact on their plans.
Markets, which typically close around 9 PM due to adverse weather, stayed open and busy late into the evening as shopping momentum gathered pace on Friday morning.
Authorities stated that all necessary arrangements had been made to curb unfair trade practices and ensure public order at the city’s busiest locations.
Meanwhile, the crescent moon of Shawwal was not sighted on Thursday evening, meaning Ramadan completed 30 days and Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam announced, “No confirmed reports of moon sightings were received from any part of the region; therefore, Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed on Saturday.”
He added that this marks the completion of 30 days of the holy month, extended greetings to the people, and prayed for peace, harmony, and prosperity across the Union Territory.
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