PNS | DEHRADUN
With the start of Ramzan, there has been a noticeable shift among fruit vendors toward offering additional items, particularly dates (Khajur). This year’s Ramzan commenced on March 2, resulting in a significant increase in the demand for khajur, which are regarded as a staple during Iftar. Many fruit vendors have observed that the interest in khajur rises annually during this month compared to regular days, prompting them to incorporate khajur alongside other fruits at their stalls during this period.
One fruit vendor, Afsnor, said that with the arrival of Ramzan, the demand for khajur has surged. In response, he has included a selection of khajur at his stall in addition to his usual fruit offerings. He said that he provides various types catering to different quality preferences. The wet khajur are priced at Rs 160 per kilogramme, while the dry varieties range from Rs 400 to Rs 1000 per kilogramme. He expressed that customers find khajur to be energising during this period.
“I typically sell fruits at my stall on regular days. However, with the onset of Ramzan, I have also incorporated khajur into my offerings, as their sales significantly increase during this period compared to ordinary days. On the first day alone, I recorded sales of dates ranging from Rs 2000 to 3000 on average. However, the demand for dates tends to peak in the initial days of Ramzan and subsequently declines,” stated another fruit vendor Vijay Kumar.
Many other fruit vendors have expressed similar views regarding the sale of khajur.
With respect to the importance of consuming khajur during Ramzan, local journalist Mohammad Shahnazar said that eating khajur during this month is beneficial both from an Islamic perspective and a medical standpoint. He emphasised that dates contain essential elements that can enhance an individual’s immune system, making them an excellent choice for breaking the fast. Further, he cited the significant role dates play in Islam, noting that it is believed that one should break the fast initially with natural items and dates are considered a natural product rather than a manufactured one. He also added that the prophet Muhammad traditionally broke his fast with khajur, which serves as an example for others to follow this practice.
