Despite inflation, people continued to flock to caterers to keep the tradition of distributing food on Youm-e-Ashur alive. Haleem, Biryani, chanay walay chawal and zarda remained the top choices. Door to door distribution of “Niaz” is common during the Muharram Days, especially on the Ashura Day, with both Shiite and Sunni Muslims ordering deghs for distribution amongst relatives, neighbours and the poor. Rates of Biryani Degh ranged from Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,500 depending on the quality and quantity of rice and chicken. On the other hand Haleem Degh’s price ranged from Rs 6,000 to 10,000. A caterer Zubair Alam told Pakistan Today said that the significant increase in the prices of Degh related items had dented his Muharram business and most people were choosing grams and rice over Biryani. “Wood prices have forced us to increase the prices”, he added.
He also said the Zarda Degh’s price was Rs 5,300 and Gram Rice degh had been booked for Rs 3500. An impact has also been witnessed on the prices of kitchen items and other cooking utensils due to the Muharram food items. Citizens said although the prices have risen dramatically but inflation could not impact their Muharram related buying, as they had been following these rituals for years. Another Caterer Ashfaq said the rush of people has been the same as before, adding that he was selling a Haleem Degh at Rs 10,000.