Dhaka’s Eid Market Sees Punjabi Prices Reach Five Lakh Taka

As the holy festival of Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, the upscale shopping districts of Dhaka have become a bustling hub for Punjabi shoppers. Not only are crowds flocking to boutiques in search of festive attire, but the remarkable price range of these garments has also become a topic of widespread discussion. This year, the spotlight is firmly on the Banani-based boutique brand House of Ahmed, where Punjabi outfits range from BDT 6,500 to an astonishing BDT 500,000.

The boutique is located on the seventh and eighth floors of the CBL Delvista building on Banani’s 12th Road. Many of the high-end Punjabis displayed there are crafted from premium-quality fabrics, enhanced with intricate zari work and delicate embroidery. The production of a single piece can take several months, with some designs requiring up to a year. Customers interested in these exclusive pieces often place their orders months in advance to secure their preferred designs.

Ahmed Tuhin Reza, Managing Director and Designer of House of Ahmed, told Prothom Alo, “The high cost is due to the extensive time and expertise required from our skilled artisans. Every garment is meticulously handcrafted, reflecting both tradition and innovation.”

He added that the boutique aims to elevate local tastes through its sophisticated designs, explaining, “Clients also have the option to transform their Punjabis into Sherwanis, which would increase the overall cost slightly.”

Despite the premium pricing, sales remain steady. “We have a loyal clientele who exclusively wear our brand. We design new collections keeping their preferences in mind,” Reza said. This year, the boutique is introducing Jamdani-style Punjabis, adding further appeal for festive shoppers.

Nearby, another boutique, Jurheim, offers Punjabis ranging from BDT 5,000 to BDT 100,000, with some previous-year designs available at discounts. Emphasis is placed on fine handwork, comfortable fabrics, and limited-edition designs.

Other prominent stores in the Banani 11th and 12th Road area include J.K. Faren, Puma, Amira, as well as showrooms like Arong, Infinity, Vashavi, Manyavar, Shoppers World, and Ilien, offering Punjabi outfits from BDT 2,000 up to BDT 500,000.

Outside Banani, high-end malls in Gulshan and other parts of Dhaka, including Jamuna Future Park, Bashundhara Shopping Mall, and Moghbazar Market, also display a wide range of branded and luxury Punjabis. As Eid draws near, these shopping destinations are experiencing significant crowds, reflecting both the festive spirit and the growing appetite for premium traditional attire.

Price Range of Punjabis in Select Banani Boutiques

Dhaka’s Eid market this year showcases not only the cultural richness of traditional wear but also the evolving fashion preferences of the city’s discerning shoppers.