News
Monday, August 29, 2011
Karachi to welcome Eid in dim colours
Asad Farooq
KARACHI: Eid, the biggest religious celebration for Muslims, is due in a situation when the country, particularly Karachi is facing the worst law and order and political situation.
Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated in a somber atmosphere after the killing of hundreds of people during the ongoing month of Ramazan. Citizens were facing worst situation, as extortion slips were not only being given to the business community but to other sections of society as well including teachers.
A schoolteacher who requested anonymity informed Daily Times that ‘Fitra’ is forcefully received from all staff members of his government school located in Baldia town. Due to the declining financial condition, people belonging to lower middle class are rushing to low-cost Eid bazaars to bring some joy to their families. Similarly elite class is also engaged in shopping and other arrangements of Eid. According to a shopkeeper of a renowned market of Karachi, rates of all items, including readymade dresses, cosmetics and other accessories have been doubled because of the situation. He further said that shopkeepers have no other option but to increase the rate of items as this year their own cost, has been increased due to inflation and extortion.
Several shopkeepers complained that their sale was being decreased up to 50 percent as compared to previous years. After talking to a number of shopkeepers and consumers, it was learnt that people are only purchasing children’s garments and that too reluctantly as rates have been doubled and the dresses of casual quality are being sold at Rs 500 to Rs 1,000. All 18 towns have made special arrangements while cleanliness campaigns have also been initiated. Rapidly losing their importance, Eid cards were once an important additive for the eve. Short Message Service (SMS) has now replaced the Eid cards. People exchange gifts and dishes on Eid day among their neighbours, relatives and friends.
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk