LAHORE: It was widely expected that Eid would fall on Tuesday, but the late evening formal announcement of moon sighting electrified city markets as girls thronged to bangles shops, hina prints, or manual application.

Though it was hard to pinpoint any particular area for the level of rush, the relatively less posh areas of Allama Iqbal Town, Walled City and The Mall attracted main rush. Both markets of Gulberg (Main and Liberty) also had their share of rush.

Fortunately, the electricity provided some relief to Lahore and the power supply, barring a few complaints, by and large went uninterrupted.

Within minutes of the announcement, the city youth took to the roads -- riding motorcycle, doing one-wheelie. “It was almost certain that the Eidul Fitr would fall on Tuesday,” says Muhammad Asif -- running a kiosk on The Mall.

The rest of the world celebrated Eid on Monday, confirming its fall on Tuesday in Pakistan. But, as always, the Lahorites are known for delaying their shopping till last moment. It created some rush on the roads.

Then there are some activities that are also most designed for, what everyone calls Chand Raat (last night before Eid). Purchasing bangles, matching them with Eid attire and designing of hina are meant for the eve of the Eid.

“Last minute shopping is more than last few years,” points out another shopkeeper at the Main Market Gulberg. One is not sure if it takes some extra time for people to arrange money, or they get salaries late or fasting take it toll to delay shopping, but it has been unusual rush on roads and markets.

It is not only markets, but the beauty parlors are also attracting unusual rush. Relatively well off people are skipping the road-side kiosks and rushing to formal beauty parlors.

Published in Dawn, July 29th, 2014