Temporary markets selling livestock for sacrifice have sprung up across India, Indian-controlled Kashmir and Bangladesh ahead of Eid al-Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice as it is known.

It’s a joyous occasion and food is a key part of the celebrations.

Devout Muslims buy and slaughter animals and share two-thirds of the meat with the poor.

Eid al-Adha is one of the biggest Islamic holidays and commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim who was willing to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command.

Muslims slaughter sheep, goats and cows as a demonstration of faith and remembrance of the Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son, which was ultimately replaced by a ram.

As Eid al-Adha approaches, livestock prices have increased in New Delhi.

“Prices are on the higher side,” says cattle trader Mohammad Ali Qureshi, adding that goats which used to sell for 50,000 Indian rupees (US $580) are now selling for as much as 56,000 rupees (US $640).

The prices fluctuate from one market to another, and potential buyers are often seen negotiating for a better price.

In Indian-controlled Kashmir’s city of Srinagar, a livestock trader said that the markets were slow this year.

“The business we used to have is no longer the same, and the passion that buyers once had is also missing,” said Adnan.

In Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, cattle trader Delwar Hossain said the livestock market was slow due to the political situation.

Eid al-Adha will be celebrated on Saturday in India and Bangladesh.

AP video shot by: Meraj Ud Din, Al Emrun Garjon, Shonal Ganguly