From Scents to Cents

Nazma has been working in the capital's Shahbagh area as a flower-seller for around 18 years. She took up the trade from her father, who brought her here to start their new life. Nazma's elder daughter, an 8-year-old, has also followed in her footsteps. Every day, the duo makes garlands while the younger daughter sleeps. For many others like Nazma, the sweet scent of flowers means a livelihood. The profession itself has been “inherited”, with many families involved in the craft for over three to four generations. The sellers buy flowers from bigger traders in Shahbagh and can make Tk 100-200 per day by selling them. Some days the profits fall but special occasions means the losses can be at least partially recouped. And thus life goes on for flower-sellers in Shahbagh.    

Photo: Anisur Rahman