On the occasion of Durga Puja, the largest annual Hindu festival in Dhaka, retailers, including fashion houses and shopping centres, were pleased as sales exceeded expectations.
One key factor behind this surge was the unavailability of visas for shopping in Kolkata this season, according to retailers. Typically, they introduce new collections and offer discounts during festive seasons like Durga Puja.
Shoppers have been buying clothing and accessories for their families, expressing joy in giving gifts, for which sales typically increase from about ten days before Durga Puja begins and continue for at least three days after the festival starts.
Retailers have reported increased foot traffic and better sales compared to the previous year, despite political unrest and high inflation. Discounts have contributed to the positive response from buyers.
Products like sarees, salwar kameez, and home appliances have been in high demand during the Puja season. In particular, sarees like katan, silk, and embroidered sarees, as well as Jamdani sarees, are popular choices. Sales of home appliances, including LED TVs and fridges, have also increased.
Sweets being an essential part of the festival, saw a slight boost in sales. A 10% discount on various sweets has been available since October 15. The Durga Puja ceremony is expected to see the highest number of sales over the weekend.
Apart from clothes and accessories, electronics and home appliances also saw a surge in sales ahead of the festival.
The two Eids account for over 70% of all festival sales in Bangladesh, with the remainder occurring during Pahela Baishakh and Durga Puja.
The Hindu population in Bangladesh is approximately 10%.
