As Eid draws closer, markets across Srinagar are bustling with crowds, but shopkeepers say sales remain disappointingly low as rising inflation continues to hit household budgets hard.
Traders who had hoped for a festive shopping rush say most visitors are only window shopping or leaving without making purchases.
According to shopkeepers, the ongoing West Asia crisis has pushed up fuel prices, triggering a rise in the cost of goods and daily essentials, leaving families with little money to spend on Eid celebrations.
A mehndi artist who travelled from Delhi expecting good business, also expressed disappointment over the poor turnout of paying customers.
Many shoppers admitted that prices have nearly doubled compared to previous years, forcing them to cut back on clothes, gifts and festive items.
Despite the dull sales so far, traders remain hopeful that last-minute Eid shopping in the coming days will help improve business and bring some festive cheer to the markets.