The markets in the Muslim dominated areas of Jajpur district show a rise in dates business recently as the fruit is consumed by the Muslim devotees to break their day-long fast during the holy Ramzan month.
Dates are associated with Ramzan and Muslims around world often partake in the tradition of ending their daily fast during this holy month by eating dates. Shopkeepers say that sale of dates jump by as much as 70 to 80 per cent in the holy month.
“As the holy month of Ramzan has started, the demand of dates is on its peak. Dates contain multiple types of sugars, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Due to these qualities, dates are used to break fasts during the holy month of Ramzan all across the Muslim world. To chew the texture of dates is a delightful experience. It is flexible and delectable and has a pleasant smell. Therefore, many Muslims use good quality fresh dates daily to get various nutritional requirements,” said Mohammad Zakir, a vendor.
“Prices of dates are on the rise in the Ramzan month. Jajpur dates market offers about 20 varieties, the most popular of which is Anbara. It is also most expensive. The price of dates per kilo starts from Rs 400 to Rs 5,000.
Dates are taken as an ideal food which easily balances and digests other foods. It gives extra energy to a tired human body within half an hour after taking it.
The fruits are being utilized for multiple purposes in different parts of the world. It holds a strong position in the list of most delightful fruits.
“We purchase imported dates from Kolkata markets. Middle East countries are the main date suppliers. Ramzan month is the best period for us to sell dates to the Muslims who observe fast,” said Karamat Khan, another vendor.