AZE.US
Prices for sacrificial animals have increased in Azerbaijan ahead of Eid al-Adha, with the cheapest rams in Baku now starting at around 300 manats, or about $176.
According to Vesti Baku, the minimum price for sacrificial rams last year was around 250-280 manats. This year, the lower end of the market has moved up to 300-340 manats, sellers say.
The price depends mainly on the animal’s weight, age and appearance. When sold by live weight, sacrificial animals are offered at around 10–11 manats per kilogram, or roughly $5.90-$6.50. Cleaned meat is being sold at about 21–22 manats per kilogram, or around $12.35-$12.95.
Sellers say a standard sacrificial ram can cost around 430-450 manats, or approximately $253–$265. Larger animals are more expensive, with prices reaching 500 manats, or about $294.
Prices are somewhat lower in the regions. Smaller rams and lambs bought directly from private farms can be found for around 250-270 manats, or about $147-$159. In regional markets, sacrificial animals are generally being sold in the 250-380 manat range, roughly $147-$224.
Despite the higher prices, sellers say demand this year is weaker than in previous years. For many households, even the lowest price of around 300 manats has become a serious addition to the holiday budget.
There is also a separate seasonal market for decorations used on sacrificial animals. Ribbons, beads, decorative covers and other accessories are being sold ahead of the holiday. Simple ribbons cost around 2-5 manats, while more decorative items are priced at 10-20 manats. Custom-made accessories can cost more.
The practice has sparked mixed reactions. Some people see decorated animals as part of the holiday atmosphere, especially when a sacrificial ram is taken to relatives or to a bride’s family. Others argue that excessive decoration turns attention away from the religious meaning of the holiday.
Theologian Tural Irfan said a sacrificial animal should be clean and well kept, but excessive decoration for display is not considered necessary from a religious point of view. He said the main purpose of Eid al-Adha is intention, sharing and helping people in need.
The market ahead of Eid now shows both trends at once: sacrificial animals have become more expensive, while accessories around the holiday have also turned into a small seasonal business. For most families, however, the main issue is not how a ram is decorated, but how much the holiday will cost this year.
AZE.US