Valentine's Day will be celebrated on Friday (today), across Rawalpindi, with markets, gift shops and flower stalls brimming with red-themed items.
Fresh and artificial red flowers, heart-shaped pillows, teddy bears, and specially designed red gift packs are in high demand.
Sweet shops and bakeries have stocked up on Valentine's Day-themed cakes, sweets, and strawberries, while street vendors have set up stalls selling red roses and gifts, attracting a large number of students and young buyers.
A unique aspect of this year's celebrations includes divorced parents seeking permission from the Family Court to meet their estranged children and present them with Valentine's gifts.
Family Judge Muhammad Imran Qureshi granted the request, allowing several parents to reunite with their children on Thursday, while others are scheduled to meet their children on Friday, with gifts including toys, sweets, and flowers.
However, the commercial aspect of the occasion has led to a significant price hike.
A single fresh red rose with a six-inch stem and a few leaves is now selling for Rs100 to 150, while a bouquet of red roses costs between Rs500 and 700.
Artificial red flowers range from Rs70 to 120 per piece. The price of red-themed teddy bears varies from Rs300 to 2,000, while Valentine's Day-themed cushions are being sold for Rs1,000 to 2,500.
Gas-filled red balloons, including animal-shaped ones, are priced between Rs100 and 250.
According to florist Riyasat Ali at Bani Chowk's flower market, the past two days have seen record sales of red roses and rose petals, with petals selling for Rs500 per kilogram.
The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to the 17th century, rooted in an ancient Roman festival known as Lupercalia. Over time, it evolved into a Christian celebration named after Saint Valentine, symbolising love and affection.
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