PNS I DEHRADUN
People flocked to the city’s major markets, including Jhanda Bazaar and Paltan Bazaar, for last-minute Deepawali shopping on Wednesday. The roads, corners of the markets and various locations were found decked with rangoli colours, lights and Puja materials in tune with the mood of the festival of light. Many locals rushed to the markets having found some items remaining un-purchased despite having begun the festive shopping weeks in advance. As a result, a large crowd of buyers was noticed in the city’s principal markets for last-minute Deepavali preparations.
“I have come to the market to buy idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi which will be installed during the Lakshmi Puja on Deepavali. Additionally, I purchased Deepavali-specific decors and sweets for its appropriate celebration,” said a local Ponam Jeena.
Another local Sanjeev Kaushal said that buying new items for the home is always considered auspicious during Deepavali. “With this in mind, I went to the market to purchase a new dining table for my house,” he said.
He also said he had bought several other items to enhance the festive atmosphere. “However, one thing I must say. The shop-owners charge double for the items the last-minute shoppers purchase,” he added.
A Puja material shop- owner, Dev Upadhyay said he had been expecting customers to throng for last-minute Deepavali shopping. “This happens every year and this year is no exception. A day ahead of the festival, people mainly come to buy the important puja items like tilak, idols and mala,” he said.
Asked whether the prices are hiked for the last-minute shoppers, he nodded and said that this was a normal phenomenon. “This happens around this time and people do not mind it,” he added.
