Bhatkal: More than 900 applications were received for just 35 stalls for Ramzan stalls this year, which were auctioned on Tuesday 13 June.

Town Municipality marked total 73 shops for Ramzan Bakda at Main road and Marikatta area in  Bhatkal, of which 32 shops were allotted to the existing shop owners, 2 were reserved for police to provide security and one bakda reserve for handicapped, so the draw was held for remaining 35 stalls in the  jam packed municipality complex which was attended by thousands of people.

The application process started on Monday whereby the applicant had to submit adhar card copy along with 50 rupees fee. Last year, each shop was let out at Rs. 1000 but now the rent has been doubled to Rs. 2000 per bakda.

Just like previous years, only the individuals whose residence falls in the Municipality limit and are above the age of 18 were given the opportunity to apply for the Ramzan stalls. One person is allowed to apply for one shop only.

It may be noted that Ramzan Bazaar is held every year during the second half of the holy month of Ramzan and people come here for shopping regardless of their religion or caste or creed, which is a perfect example of communal harmony.

People from Bhatkal and neighbouring towns including Shiroor, Byndoor, Honnavar, Kumta and many other surrounding villages throng to the Bhatkal Ramzan Bazaar to purchase all kinds of things. Almost all goods including branded and unbranded footwear, clothes, cosmetics, accessories and utensils, etc are available in the bakdas and heavy rush is usually seen for last 10 days of Ramzan.

It is learnt that crores of rupees of business has been recorded in this Ramzan bazar which runs only for 15 days. The rush reaches its climax on the last day of Ramzan when the businesses try to clear out their stock at throwaway prices.