kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, June 17 : The footpath opposite the Grand Hotel in Esplanade and the bustling stretch near Gate No. 8 of Esplanade Metro station have turned into a vibrant hub of sports merchandise, especially football-related items. This popular marketplace, officially known as Bidhannagar Market, is more widely recognized as Maidan Market.

Throughout the year, the market remains busy and crowded, attracting both emerging and established sportspersons from the Maidan area. However, its character changes dramatically during major sporting seasons. During the World Cup, excitement in the market reaches its peak, drawing even those who do not usually visit the area to purchase jerseys of their favourite teams or national flags.

The most in-demand items are jerseys and flags of Argentina, Brazil, Portugal, Germany, and Spain, which traders say consistently attract the highest number of buyers. On Wednesday, a visit to the market revealed a lively scene, with customers from different generations, including young buyers like Tuhin and Snigdha, arriving early in the morning to purchase jerseys and flags of their favourite teams.

According to several traders including Mohammad Shajid, Gaurav, and Anil Babu, jersey sales have nearly doubled compared to the 2022 World Cup held after the COVID-19 pandemic. They noted that Spain jerseys are currently witnessing particularly high demand due to their design appeal, leading to occasional shortages in supply.

Alongside Spain, jerseys of Argentina and Brazil are also selling at a steady pace, followed by Portugal and Germany. Prices vary depending on fabric quality and design, but traders noted that increased demand during the World Cup season has led to a rise in prices for certain team jerseys.

Merchants also highlighted that jerseys associated with star players such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, particularly those bearing their jersey numbers, are especially popular among buyers. One trader mentioned that Argentina’s victory in a recent match has further boosted demand for Argentina jerseys among fans.

The crowd includes both young football enthusiasts and older fans, reflecting the wide appeal of the sport across generations. Alongside jerseys, national flags are also selling briskly, with many fans opting to buy flags when their preferred team jerseys are unavailable.

Rows of shops across Bidhannagar Market and surrounding areas have been decorated with flags and jerseys from various countries, creating a colourful and festive atmosphere. As the World Cup progresses, footfall at Maidan Market continues to rise, bringing smiles to small and large traders who have been engaged in this business for decades.