During the month-long fasting period of Ramzan, there is a high demand for dates in Hyderabad. Dates are used to break the fast during Iftar, and Muslims in the city are buying large quantities of dates imported from various Arab nations like Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and Algeria.
Hyderabad is a major market for dates in India, consuming over 400 truckloads of different date varieties from seaports in Chennai and Mumbai. Sales have increased as retailers and customers are purchasing dates in large quantities, with dates from Iran and Iraq being particularly popular due to their lower prices.
Customers with different spending capacities prefer premium dates from countries like Iran, Iraq, Tunisia, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. Varieties like Ajwa, known as the king of dates, are sold at premium prices due to their perceived medicinal value. Families are even buying 5 kg boxes of AjwaKhajur imported from Madina despite the high price.
In Hyderabad’s market, there are around 40 varieties of dates available, including Kimia, Shukkuri, KupKup, Khudri, and Mariyum. People are starting to show interest in other varieties like Mazafati, Kalmi, Mashrooq, and Maghroom, as well as the expensive Medjoul variety from the UAE. Dates filled with dry fruits like almonds, nuts, and apricots are also selling well.
Despite the high demand during Ramzan, there hasn’t been a significant change in the prices of dates in the market. Prices for most varieties have remained stable, with occasional small increases per kilogram. Each family consumes around 7-8 kg of dates during the month of Ramzan. Dates are an important ingredient in Sheer-Khorma, a dessert enjoyed on Eid-ul-Fitr, the conclusion day of Ramzan.
