Eid frenzy at Rawalpindi’s historic Moti Bazaar

In the bustling heart of Rawalpindi lies the iconic “Moti Bazaar,” a cherished trading hub for women spanning over a century and a quarter.

With half of Ramazan behind us, the fervour of Eid shopping among women has peaked in this 125-year-old historic market.

Moti Bazaar, boasting 250 diverse markets and approximately 3,000 shops, stands as a beacon for women seeking affordable essentials. Legend has it that a visit to Moti Bazaar is a requisite for completing Eid and bridal shopping in Rawalpindi.

From 10 am to 10 pm, the market witnesses a flurry of activity, bustling with women eager to explore its offerings. As the night wears on during this holy month, the shopping frenzy extends till 1am, making navigation through the labyrinthine lanes a challenge.

Within Moti Bazaar’s labyrinthine alleys, an array of women’s apparel, footwear, jewellery, cosmetics, and household items awaits.

Established in 1901 by the visionary Hindu entrepreneur, Moti Lal, the market continues to thrive, a testament to its enduring legacy. Situated amidst the ancient Raja Bazaar, Iqbal Road, Bohar Bazar and Lal Haveli, Moti Bazaar holds a storied past, with landmarks like the Krishnavanthi Mansion, now home to a Government Boys Girls School, bearing witness to its evolution.

The origins of Moti Bazaar trace back to Moti Lal’s altruism, as he provided refuge to widows, irrespective of their faith, challenging archaic Hindu customs. Through initiatives like the Kanya Ashram, where women learned vocational skills, Moti Lal laid the foundation for Moti Bazaar’s prosperity.

Over the decades, what began as a humble endeavour burgeoned into a vibrant marketplace, shaping the commercial landscape of Rawalpindi.

In the wake of partition in 1947, Moti Bazaar transitioned into Muslim hands, fuelling its commercial ascent. Today, it stands as a testament to communal harmony, catering to shoppers from the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad to the neighbouring districts of Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Azad Kashmir, Abbottabad and Hazara.

Amidst the Ramazan rush, the market brims with activity, illuminated by the glow of lights even at midnight. However, amidst the hustle and bustle, challenges persist, with incidents of theft plaguing unsuspecting shoppers.

Despite efforts to curb such crimes, pickpockets and professional thieves pose a persistent threat. Nevertheless, the spirit of Moti Bazaar endures, as generations of shoppers continue to patronise its diverse offerings.

Moti Bazaar traders Chaudhary Iqbal, Naveed Kanwal, and Tahir Taj Bhatti, affirm its cultural significance, drawing patrons from far and wide. As the month of Ramazan unfolds, the market remains a beacon of tradition and community, offering not just goods but a shared experience cherished by all who wander its storied alleys.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 3^rd, 2024.