Hyderabad, August 30: Technology hub Hyderabad changes its stripes during Ramazan it doesn’t flock to its futuristic malls but to a bazaar near Charminar known for its quaint old-world charm.
Despite being old-fashioned, the market has one feature in common with the city’s new-age industries: it is open 24X7, much like the countless BPOs and software firms.
But the bazaar, spread from Madina square to Charminar and beyond, will fold up on Wednesday, the day the month-long Ramazan culminates in Id.
Mohammad Arif, out to make the best of the few days left, explained last evening what made the place special. “There are many malls in the new city but they lack the spirit of Ramazan,” said the private firm executive as he shopped at the Madina Arcade.
Shoppers prefer to park their vehicles some distance away and walk to the Charminar. But the relatively long walk, the teeming crowds and the heavy security didn’t seem to deter Arif as he went around soaking up the mood and the flavours of the bazaar.
And if it’s flavours, can haleem and kebabs be far behind? “We will return home after having haleem at Pista House (an eatery famous for the Ramazan delicacy),” Arif said.
The shoppers belong to all communities. Several come lured by the special Ramazan discounts. “We give discounts during Ramazan,” said the owner of one stall stacked with knick-knacks.
Everything is on offer, for almost everyone from bangles to carpets, garments to crockery, flowers to dry fruits. “We have items that suit everyone’s purse,” said Mohammad Rizwan, showing off the bangles and imitation jewellery in his shop.
Mohammad Shafiuddin had something for everyone’s nose. “Rich or poor, everyone buys our bottle of Itar (perfume) during Ramazan,” he said.
-Agencies