The historic Shankharibazar and Tantibazar areas of Old Dhaka are witnessing a surge in shopping and festive preparations ahead of Durga Puja, with buyers and sellers busy arranging everything needed for the biggest religious festival of the Hindu community.
From new clothes and traditional conch-shell bangles to vermilion, puja accessories and drums, shoppers are visiting the bustling markets to collect essentials for the celebrations.
Shankharibazar’s shops are displaying an array of conch-shell bangles, traditional bracelets, vermilion and other ritual items, while Tantibazar is drawing shoppers looking for festive clothing and puja necessities.
As the festival approaches, artisans involved in making traditional drums are also working to meet the seasonal demand, adding to the preparations underway across the neighbourhoods.
Beyond buying new clothes, families are gathering items for religious rituals and festive decorations, with the two historic markets reflecting the anticipation and cultural traditions surrounding Durga Puja.
The shopping rush is expected to intensify as the festival draws closer, bringing more customers to the narrow lanes and traditional shops of Old Dhaka.