As Deepavali approaches, families across Bangladesh are getting their homes decorated and start doing some shopping. In Dhaka, you can find lots of great shopping spots from the busy streets of Old Dhaka to modern online shops looking for Deepavali lights and decorations. The best place to start your shopping is around the historic Dhakeshwari National Temple as many families like to gather here.
Old Dhaka Markets
If you’re looking for more traditional Deepavali decorations then head to Shankhari Bazar and Tanti Bazar area. These are traditional market streets near the temple that fill up with Deepavali decorations each year. You can find clay diyas, coloured powders for your rangoli, marigold flowers, candles and little idols, often cheaper than a modern mall.
Get there early to avoid the busy and tight streets. Often it’s easier to use a rickshaw rather than a car. Most vendors will want cash so have some small change on you. Be polite when haggling and a friendly smile often works better.
Where to Buy Good Price Deepavali Lights
Many people head to Islampur and Chawkbazar to buy electrical lights. Here, you can find LED fairy lights, lanterns and decorative bulbs all in a range of colours from wholesale vendors. There are also lots of electrical shops in Gulistan and around the Baitul Mukarram.
It’s always important to make sure your lights are safe. Cheap wiring can cause overheating, especially if they are left on overnight. Try to:
•Ask the vendor to turn the lights on before paying.
•Make sure any electrical items have the BSTI logo.
•Use LED lights as they use less electricity over a long period of time.
•Don’t use too many strings of lights in one socket.
•Keep clay diyas away from any curtain or paper decorations.
If you’re unable to get around the traffic, online shopping is a great option. Daraz has lots of festive lights and decorations. You can pay using cash on delivery. Many online vendors also accept mobile payments using bKash making it a good option for those who don’t have easy access to bank cards.
No matter where you go shopping, try to get there a few days before the festival. Prices increase and popular items will sell out. This means you’ll have the best selection and a more relaxed experience.
Discover Food with Bangla Pulse
1. Wondering which traditional Bangladeshi dishes are slowly disappearing from our kitchens?
Take a delicious trip into the past with these lost recipes and forgotten traditional dishes of Bangladesh.
2. Love Ilish but want to move beyond the usual preparation?
These classic Ilish recipes bring some of Bangladesh’s favourite fish dishes to your kitchen.
3. Think you know Bangladeshi cuisine? You may be missing these hidden gems.
Discover lesser-known Bangladeshi dishes that deserve a place on every food lover’s list.
4. Looking for something warm, comforting and seasonal when the monsoon arrives?
Try these healthy monsoon comfort food recipes inspired by homestyle flavours.
5. Weekend plans but no idea what to cook? Why not make biryani?
From familiar favourites to exciting variations, here are 7 biryani recipes to try this weekend.
