PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Taking inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for local products, the Dehradun market has seen a surge in demand for Indian decorative lights compared to their Chinese versions during the Deepawali festival. Many shop owners said that this year, residents chose to purchase Indian decorative lights, even though they are more expensive than Chinese options. They attributed this shift to the durability and quality of these local products.
With Deepawali less than a couple of days away, crowds flocked to the major markets in Dehradun on Saturday. The markets were adorned with Deepawali decorations, including lights, flowers and other festive items.
The owner of a lighting shop Raju Arora said that over time, people’s awareness of Indian products has grown. The PM’s message of “vocal for local” has resonated with the community, leading to an increased demand for Indian decorative lights this year, as residents choose them over the Chinese alternatives. Although these Indian lights come at a higher cost, customers are willing to invest in them due to their durability and the impact of social media. He said that for this Deepawali, Indian decorative lights accounted for 80 per cent of the sales in his shop.
He added, “The demand for Indian decorative lights had already started to rise last year. In anticipation of this trend, I have stocked more Indian decorative lights instead of Chinese ones this year. Local residents are increasingly leaning towards purchasing Indian decorative lights, appreciating their durability and ease of repair. There is a significant price difference between Indian and Chinese lights; for instance, Indian lights range from Rs 800 to 1,200 per bundle, while a single Chinese light costs around Rs 50.”
Numerous other light sellers have expressed a similar perspective regarding the rise in sales of Indian decorative lights. Resident Mona Bhatt said that she has purchased Indian decorative lights for her home. These Indian lights tend to last much longer than Chinese lights and are also easier to repair, while Chinese lights do not offer the same level of durability.
