Eid excitement builds: Dhaka's markets see demand soar for smaller cattle
As Eid-ul-Azha draws near, Dhaka’s sacrificial animal markets are alive with the hum of eager buyers, curious onlookers, and the lowing of cows under colourful tarpaulin canopies.
From Jatrabari to Donia, Shanir Akhra to Rayerbagh, the capital’s markets are bustling, with sales surging on Wednesday after a slow start earlier in the week. Amid the haggling and hoof beats, one trend stands out: small and medium-sized cattle are the stars of this year’s trade, as buyers seek affordable options in a vibrant, chaotic celebration of tradition.
A market in full swing
A visit to Dhaka’s markets on Wednesday afternoon revealed a lively scene. Buyers thronged the stalls, weaving through crowds of curious visitors marvelling at rows of cows and goats. At Donia and Jatrabari, makeshift pandals lined the roads, sheltering animals brought from far-flung regions like Faridpur and Kushtia. The air was thick with the thrill of bargaining, as buyers like Idris Ali from Merajnagar sealed deals with a smile. “The seller asked for Tk 1.7 lakh, but I got my cow for Tk 1.41 lakh,” Idris told Jago News, beaming beside his medium-sized purchase at Donia Pashur Haat.
Hafiz Khan, another buyer, snapped up a small cow for Tk 75,000, citing his tight budget. “The price was affordable, so I bought early,” he said, joining the growing number of savvy shoppers opting for smaller cattle priced between Tk 45,000 and Tk 1.5–2.5 lakh. Wholesalers report that cows around the Tk 1 lakh mark are in particularly high demand, striking a balance between quality and affordability.
From farmlands to city streets
Since Saturday, trucks loaded with cattle have been rolling into Dhaka from across Bangladesh, transforming quiet markets into bustling hubs. While sales were sluggish until Tuesday, Wednesday marked a turning point, with traders like Rezwan Mia from Kushtia selling three of his 20 cows by mid-afternoon—one for Tk 70,000, another for Tk 94,000, and a third for Tk 1.04 lakh. “Transportation costs are up, but the roads were clear,” Rezwan noted, optimistic that sales would soar by Thursday and Friday nights.
A farmer from Faridpur, who brought 25 small cows to Dhaka, had sold only three by Wednesday—priced at Tk 50,000, Tk 74,000, and Tk 80,000. “The market’s just warming up,” he told Jago News. “Small and medium cows are moving fast, but big ones are slower.” Despite the slower start, traders are hopeful, expecting a flood of buyers as Eid approaches.
Challenges amid the festivities
The markets aren’t without their hiccups. Curious onlookers, drawn by the spectacle, are causing congestion despite warnings from the Haat Committee. The influx of visitors, while adding to the festive vibe, has strained space in busy markets like Jatrabari. Yet, the spirit remains high, with buyers and sellers engaging in spirited negotiations under the summer sun.
In a nod to environmental consciousness, some market organizers are taking steps to manage waste, such as collecting animal dung for composting, aligning with the ethos of World Environment Day on June 5. These efforts, though modest, reflect a growing awareness of sustainability amid the traditional hustle of Eid preparations.
A tradition that unites
Dhaka’s animal markets are more than just trading grounds—they’re a vibrant tapestry of culture, community, and commerce. As families prepare for Eid-ul-Azha, the demand for small and medium cattle underscores a practical yet heartfelt approach to the festival. With sales poised to peak in the coming days, the markets are a testament to Bangladesh’s enduring traditions and the shared hope of a joyful celebration.