Camels take center stage in Peshawar’s Eidul Azha markets

PESHAWAR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 20th May, 2026) In the crowded cattle bazaars of Peshawar ahead of Eidul Azha, towering camels decorated with colourful garlands, bells, and traditional henna art have emerged as the biggest attraction, reflecting a growing cultural and economic shift in sacrificial traditions across the city.

At major livestock markets including Lala Kala cattle market, Charsadda road and Jhagra cattle market in Peshawar, families gathered around rows of camels transported from Sindh and Punjab by inter-provincial traders.

The atmosphere blended festivity with commerce as buyers negotiated prices under makeshift tents while children eagerly admired the ships of the desert.

For many residents, the arrival of camels has become more than a market spectacle. It represents a revival of a centuries-old Eid tradition that is increasingly appealing in today’s economic climate. Unlike cows or buffaloes, a single camel can provide meat shares for up to 11 people, making collective Qurbani more affordable for extended families struggling with inflation.

Ten-year-old Ibrahim Khan described seeing Sindhi camels for the first time as a dream fulfilled. Walking through the market with his grandfather in large shed, he joined dozens of children fascinated by the enormous and decorated animals towering above the crowds.

The emotional significance of camel sacrifice was also visible among older buyers. Retired government employee Misal Khan shared that his family has performed collective camel Qurbani every Eid because of its affordability and abundant meat supply.

He also revealed a deeply personal reason behind the ritual, saying he dedicates a meat share every year in memory of his late wife.

Livestock traders said camel sales have increased considerably this year, even as KP's broader economic slowdown has reduced overall cattle purchasing power.

Traders attributed the surge to both cost-sharing benefits and public fascination with camels.

Dealer Mosa Khan, who transported 10 camels from Sindh, said more than half had already been sold despite prices reaching as high as Rs1 million for healthy animals. Rising transportation costs and animal feed expenses have contributed to higher prices this season.

Many buyers still saw camels as financially practical. Umar Khan, a provincial government employee, recently purchased a young camel collectively with relatives for Rs600,000.

According to him, the animal provides enough meat for family members, neighbours, and the poor while keeping individual costs manageable.

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Another factor driving demand is culinary preference. Several buyers said their families specifically enjoy camel meat because it is leaner and considered healthier than beef or mutton.

Traditionally, cows and buffaloes dominated Eid markets in Peshawar, Nowshera and Charsadda. However, traders estimated that more than 1000 camels have entered the city this Eid season, signalling a noticeable change in public preference.

He complained about poor facilities including unavailability of cold water, sheds and shortage of veterinary staff that irked buyers.

The people demanded regulation of prices of sacrificial animals and presence of police and district administration staff for checking of prices and security assurance.

He said camping of livestock on roadside often caused traffic jam and sold efforts required to shift them to the cattle markets.

Market owner Arbab Umar observed that visitors are drawn not only by affordability but also by the grandeur and beauty of the decorated animals.

Camels adorned with colourful accessories have effectively become symbols of festivity and communal celebration.

The growing popularity also highlights the deep connection between religion, family, and shared sacrifice during Eidul Azha.

Collective camel Qurbani allows larger groups to participate together, reinforcing social bonds and charitable giving.

Despite the festive spirit, many visitors complained about poor facilities at cattle markets. Buyers cited inadequate sanitation, limited clean drinking water, and insufficient shaded areas during intense summer temperatures.

Authorities said measures are being taken to ensure public and animal safety. Dr. Aftab Ahmad, Director of the Livestock and Dairy Development Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, confirmed that veterinary camps and health checkpoints have been established across the province to monitor sacrificial animals and prevent disease outbreaks ahead of Eid.

Officials estimated that nearly 70–75 percent of sacrificial animals sold in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are transported from Punjab, making veterinary inspections especially important during the busy Eid season.

As Eidul Azha approaches, Peshawar’s cattle bazaars continue to pulse with energy, emotion, and faith.

Beneath fluttering tents and scorching summer skies, the decorated camels stand as more than livestock — they symbolize generosity, collective sacrifice, and the enduring traditions that unite communities during one of islam’s most cherished festivals.

APP/fam