Blacksmiths sit idle as knife sales slump ahead of Eid-ul-Azha

Sale of sharp knives and choppers usually picks up ahead of Eid-ul-Azha as thousands of Muslims across the country sacrifice animals as per the religion.

While some buy new knives, others look for blacksmiths to sharpen their old ones. However, despite the upcoming Eid, the blacksmith shops in Dhamrai, Dhaka, have not seen an increase in activity.

This was found during visits to the areas of Dhamrai Bazar, Kalampur Bazar, Dhantara Bazar, Kawalipara Bazar, and Kushura Bazar on Thursday.

Blacksmiths said that there is usually a surge in the production and sale of knives and choppers in the weeks leading up to Eid-ul-Azha. Many people purchase essential raw materials like iron and coal during this time. However, this year, blacksmiths are concerned about the lack of business.

A seller stated that choppers and knives are being sold at Tk600-800 per kg, depending on quality and size. Small knives are priced between Tk150-300, and slaughter knives range from Tk500-1000.

• 5 ways to lower your grocery bill during Eid-ul-Azha
• Eid-ul-Azha: Chittagong, Khulna cattle markets gain momentum

Ravi Karmakar, who has been running a blacksmith shop in Kushura Bazar for about 35 years, said: "I haven't even sold five knives. However, there may be an increase in buyers as Eid approaches."

Many attribute the decline in sales to the rising cost of iron and machinery.

Nayan Sarkar, a workshop worker in the Dhamrai Bazar area, said that the price of all equipment has increased by Tk100-150 this year compared to last year. The increased costs of iron, coal, and blacksmith wages have led to higher prices for knives and choppers, making people reluctant to buy them unless absolutely necessary.

Dhamrai Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Khan Md Abdullah Al Mamun said: "We have already provided training and financial support to those involved in the blacksmith industry. We will take this matter seriously and continue to offer training and support in the future as well."