ISLAMABAD: In the bustling lanes of Moti Bazaar, brightly lit bangle shops are crowded with shoppers ahead of Eid ul-Fitr, as women search for what has become this season’s most sought-after accessory — Kashmiri bangles.
Across markets in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, a common question echoes from shop to shop: “Do you have Kashmiri bangles?”
For many women, Eid celebrations feel incomplete without the traditional pairing of henna and colourful bangles. This year, however, Kashmiri-style bangles — known for their small ghungroos attached to decorative kadas — have emerged as the dominant trend, drawing attention both in bazaars and on social media.
The vibrant sets, often featuring shades of red, green, gold and turquoise, are typically made with four ghungroo-adorned kadas combined with slim glass or metal bangles to complete the set. When worn together, they create a colourful display that has quickly captured the attention of shoppers.
Traders say demand for the bangles has surged across markets, including shopping centres in areas such as Karachi Company, Aabpara Market, and I-9 Markaz.
The sudden popularity has also driven prices sharply higher. A set that previously sold for around Rs350 is now being offered for up to Rs3,500 in some markets, while many shops report that their stocks have already been sold out.
Shaukat, owner of a bangle shop in Moti Bazaar, said the items previously had little demand. “These bangles used to remain in storage for years,” he said. “Then a Pakistani actress wore them in a video that went viral on social media, and suddenly everyone started asking for them. Our entire stock finished within days.”
Many social media users attribute the trend to actress Mahira Khan, whose appearance wearing the bangles reportedly sparked widespread interest online, associated press reported.
Another Pakistani actress Maya Ali Was Also Seen Wearing the same bangles.
Another trader in the market said customers now ask for Kashmiri bangles before looking at any other designs. “Other bangles we stocked are still lying in cupboards, but Kashmiri bangles have become rare,” he said.
According to traders, the unexpected spike in demand just days before Eid has put pressure on suppliers and manufacturers to replenish stocks.
Shoppers say the trend reflects both fashion and appreciation for Kashmiri culture. Neelam Shehzadi, a 20-year-old resident of the Gawal Mandi area, said she saw the bangles on social media and wanted them to match her Eid outfit. However, when she visited the market, most shops had already sold out.
Meanwhile, traditional bangle varieties from Hyderabad and Sukkur, including lacha bangles, lacquer bangles, pearl designs and colourful glass sets, have long dominated Eid markets in Pakistan. This year, however, traders say Kashmiri bangles have overshadowed most other styles.
Hamza, a shopkeeper at a plaza on Murree Road, said his entire stock sold out well before Eid. “Some people who bought them earlier are even reselling them online at higher prices,” he added.
Among the shoppers was Dr Kanwal, who was searching for bangles for her daughter. “My daughter has only one wish this Eid,” she said. “She wants to wear Kashmiri bangles.”
As Eid approaches, the gentle chime of ghungroos continues to resonate through Pakistan’s busy markets, making Kashmiri bangles one of the most distinctive fashion trends of the festive season.