Yahya Hallare

Daijiworld Media Network – Bhatkal (EP)

Bhatkal, Jun 13: The market in Bhatkal gets decorated in a unique way during the last fifteen days of Ramadan month with traders coming in from different parts of the country and local customers every year. With four days left in the Ramadan month, the markets looks very colourful.

Thousands of people visited the market on June 11 during the rain break and witnessed gaiety in the market. Traders from distant places such as Maharashtra and Rajasthan have erected rented stalls from old bus stand till the market on either side of the road. They have tried to attract customers offering low prices for various products. Colourful clothes, toys, decoration items and items for daily use are attracting people especially those belonging to poor and middle class. People from nearby rural areas of Honnavar, Kundapur and Shiroor also are becoming the customers of Ramadan market here. The market which had lost its shine during the last ten days due incessant rain appears to make good the lack of business in the next four days.

Symbol of harmony

Though Ramadan month appears to be restricted to Muslims, Ramadan market in Bhatkal has united Hindu, Muslims and Christians at a place in the name of business. Muslims are preparing for the festival. The others are busy in providing for the needs of house and children. The market provides an opportunity to buy all the necessary items in one place instead of looking all over the village for them. Competition among traders is increasing here every year. The rent of Rs 500 for a small shop ten years ago has crossed Rs 3,000 now. The items for sale too are changing.

Tight security

Police have maintained tight security due to increasing crowd. Barricades are erected at three places from old bus stand to the market. Restrictions are imposed on the movement of vehicles considering the duration of business and people in the market. CCTVs are installed in different places to prevent harassment and indecent activities by hooligans. Details of movements are being monitored.

“The business this year has not been as good as in the past due to rain. However, there are four to five days to go. We hope that the shortfall may get compensated,” said a trader in the market.