The arrival of Ramadan has once again transformed Dhaka into a vibrant hub of iftar markets, with every street corner, from major thoroughfares to narrow alleyways, bustling with a variety of traditional delicacies.
Neither too cold nor too warm, the pleasant evening on the first day of fasting saw an air of excitement as vendors set up their stalls and customers thronged to buy their favourite iftar items.
From frying crispy onion fritters (piyaju) to arranging plates of eggplant fritters (beguni), potato and egg chops, the city was alive with activity.
Hotel workers could be seen stirring large cauldrons of haleem, while nearby, small vendors arranged displays of fresh coriander, mint, lemons, cucumbers and green chillies.
Regardless of the stall size, the presence of chickpeas and puffed rice was a common sight, an essential part of traditional iftar meals.
Vegetable prices soar in Dhaka as Ramadan begins
Despite a slight increase in prices compared to the previous year, the cost of staple items remained relatively stable.
At Malibagh Rail Gate, chickpea and puffed rice seller Shahjahan noted that prices had not seen any major fluctuations.
Similarly, in areas like Burinda and Ghumni, costs remained largely unchanged.
