Dhaka, March 29 -- ul-Fitr draws near, the heart of Bangladesh's capital pulsates with an electrifying shopping spree.

The city's pavements, ordinarily an unassuming stretch of concrete, have been transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour, fabric and fervour, drawing thousands of eager shoppers in pursuit of the perfect festive ensemble.

With retail stores and shopping malls adorned in dazzling lights, enticing visitors with their luxurious displays, many middle-class consumers find themselves navigating a different avenue-the bustling footpath markets.

Here, affordability triumphs over grandeur, and haggling is an art perfected by the throngs of determined buyers.

In areas like Gulistan, New Market, Farmgate and Mirpur, the streets h...