Moti Bazaar offers respite from inflation

The ancient marketplace sells locally sourced products at the cheapest prices for Eid shoppers

RAWALPINDI:

Moti Bazaar, an ancient market renowned for women's clothes, has emerged as a beacon of hope and solace for shoppers concerned about inflation during Eid festivities.

Many female shoppers are flocking to Moti Bazaar in search of affordable options for their Eid shopping. In response to the surge of women, the bazaar management has enforced a prohibition on men entering through any of the entrance gates. Only shopkeepers and salesmen will be granted entry to the bazaar until midnight.

Moti Bazaar stands as a historical marketplace offering a wide range of women's and children's clothing, cosmetics and artificial jewellery at competitive prices compared to other markets.

Zainab Bibi, a homemaker busy shopping at Moti Bazaar, while speaking to The Express Tribune mentioned that she had come to Moti Bazaar with her three daughters for Eid shopping. She said, “The prices of items for women and children at Moti Bazaar were quite reasonable compared to commercial markets like Saddar or Tench Bhatta Bazar”.

She emphasised that in Moti Bazaar, one could easily purchase two suits, shoes, jewellery, make-up, and other items for the three days of Eid within the rate of Rs 5,000, whereas the same items would cost around Rs50,000 in other markets or branded shops.

Zainab Bibi also stated that women from all walks of life visit Moti Bazaar for shopping, and as Eid approaches, traders offer various offers that benefit the customers.

Ian Younis, who was shopping alongside her mother, mentioned that, like every year, she intends to complete all her shopping at Moti Bazar.

Moti Bazaar's most remarkable aspect is its extensive range of clothing options. From hosiery to hand-crafted clothes, one can find a diverse selection. Furthermore, if a desired item is not readily accessible, the traders capture its photograph and collaborate with their skilled artisans to recreate the same product.

Yasir Butt, a trader specialising in the sale of women's clothing in Moti Bazaar, expressed his belief that Moti Bazaar plays a crucial role in supporting underprivileged women and families. Moti Bazaar is a wholesale business centre catering to bulk buyers and retail customers.

To ensure the safety and convenience of female shoppers amidst the current bustling atmosphere, trade organisations have taken measures to enhance the lighting arrangements. Entrances are guarded by security personnel equipped with additional lamps, strictly prohibiting the entry of men.

Yasir anticipates a further surge in footfall in the coming days, and the traders are fully prepared. Shopping continues in the market all night till Suhoor time.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 10^th, 2024.