PNS | DEHRADUN
With Christmas to be celebrated on Wednesday, markets in Dehradun have been decked up in an array of decorative items and baked items. Additionally, churches in the city have been decorated with lights and other items. Vendors of decorative items in major markets have noted an increased interest in Christmas among individuals of various faiths, not limited to Christianity. This year, there has been a significant rise in the demand for Santa Claus costumes for children, the shopkeepers said.
A shopkeeper in the Raja Road area of Dehradun, Shiv Hans said that sales of Christmas decorative items like Christmas trees, ornaments, ribbons and small Santa Claus figures have surged. The enthusiasm for celebrating Christmas appears to extend across a diverse range of individuals from different religions, not solely Christians. He further said that the demand for Santa Claus costumes for children has notably increased, as many parents are purchasing them for their children.
“I decorated my shop with Christmas items two weeks prior to the festival. The impact of social media has significantly heightened the enthusiasm among individuals celebrating various festivals and sharing their experiences online. Additionally, I have noticed that many parents purchased Santa Claus costumes for their children to share pictures on social media,” said a shopkeeper in Paltan Bazaar, Akshay Kanojia.
Various bakeries in the city have also started displaying cakes, pastries and cookies themed around Christmas. Bakery owner Parwesh Arora said that over time, there has been an increased demand for a variety of baked goods that align with festive themes. In response to this trend, they have introduced new items this year in line with Christmas themes. Christmas tree cakes and representations of Santa are particularly popular, and customers have placed advance orders for these items, he said.
