LAHORE: With the holy month of Ramazan entering its final phase, anticipation is building across Pakistan for the upcoming Eidul Fitr celebrations in 2026. Traditionally, the last ten days of Ramazan, known as the “Ashra,” are a time of heightened religious observance and social preparations. Among these customs, the giving of “Eidi” — cash gifts presented by elders to children — remains a cherished practice that adds joy to the festive occasion.
In line with this tradition, many families seek fresh currency notes, particularly Rs100 denominations, to present as Eidi. These crisp, new notes are preferred because they symbolize good fortune and respect when handed over to younger family members. However, obtaining these fresh bundles from official sources such as the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and commercial banks has become increasingly challenging this year due to limited stock availability.
As a result, many people have turned to the open market to purchase fresh currency notes. Shopkeepers in various cities are offering these bundles at a premium, reflecting the high demand and scarcity. While a standard bundle of Rs100 notes is worth Rs10,000, buyers currently face prices ranging between Rs10,700 and Rs11,000 in informal markets. This markup underscores the eagerness of the public to secure fresh notes for Eid, despite the additional cost.
Meanwhile, preparations for the official announcement of Eidul Fitr are underway. The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Pakistan’s authoritative moon sighting body responsible for confirming the start of Shawwal, is scheduled to convene on March 19. This meeting will take place at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony in Islamabad, where members will observe the moon and determine the exact date for Eid celebrations. Simultaneously, zonal offices across the country will hold parallel sessions to assist in the moon sighting process, ensuring a coordinated and timely declaration.
It is worth noting that the availability and distribution of fresh currency notes have historically been a concern during major Islamic festivals in Pakistan. The State Bank and commercial banks typically ramp up efforts to supply new notes ahead of Eid, but demand often outpaces supply, leading to the emergence of secondary markets. This year’s scenario is no different, with many families eager to uphold the tradition of giving fresh Eidi despite the challenges.
As Eidul Fitr draws near, the combination of cultural practices, logistical hurdles, and economic factors continues to shape how Pakistanis prepare for one of the most significant religious festivals of the year. The increased demand for fresh Rs100 notes not only highlights the importance of this custom but also reflects the broader social and economic dynamics at play during this festive season.
