RAMAZAN is observed by a massive majority of Muslims in Pakistan. Economic difficulties have affected the sanctity of the holy month, making life more challenging than it already happens to be.

Families find it difficult to prepare traditional iftar feasts as growing inflation has overshadowed the festive spirit of the month. Markets are full of people who are eager to buy, but struggle to do that.

They return home with grievances over skyrocketing costs and deteriorating quality of goods and food items.

Other than the prices, the attitude of businesses have changed significantly. Once warm and welcoming, the shop-keepers are now controlling, even denying customers the option to choose their own fruits.

Unfortunately, essential commodities, including wheat, sugar and cooking oil, have been negatively impacted by inflation. Is there an end to people’s misery, or will they continue to suffer?

Marrium Khan
Karachi

Published in Dawn, March 13th, 2025