Women add colour to Eid preparations

As Eidul Azha approaches, Lahore's traditional markets, modern shopping malls and busy beauty salons are witnessing an unusual surge of activity, reflecting the city's vibrant festive spirit.

While the occasion is often perceived as a festival focused mainly on men and livestock arrangements, Lahore's women are increasingly redefining that narrative with equal participation in cattle markets and elaborate beauty preparations.

From purchasing cows and sheep alongside male family members at livestock markets to booking appointments at salons for chand raat makeup, nail art and hairstyling, women across the city are actively engaged in Eid preparations.

Despite intense heat and humid weather conditions, enthusiasm remains high in shopping districts including Anarkali, Liberty and Ichhra, where shoppers continue to arrive in large numbers.

At Anarkali Bazaar, Ayesha Khan, who was purchasing fabric for a traditional farshi shalwar, said she had recently visited Shahpur Kanjran cattle market with her brother to select a white calf for sacrifice.

She described the experience as exhausting due to dust and heat but said the excitement of Eid overshadowed all difficulties.

"People think girls are only interested in clothes and shoes, but I also went to the cattle market myself," she said, adding that she has now focused on completing her Eid outfit.

In Liberty Market, shopper Maryam Batool highlighted the importance of balancing comfort and style in the prevailing weather.

She said she has designed a light pastel lawn outfit with a short kurti and farshi shalwar to remain comfortable in the heat while maintaining a traditional look.