As Raksha Bandhan approaches, the streets of old Ahmedabad are buzzing with excitement. The vibrant lanes of Tankshal in Kalupur are filled with colourful stalls selling rakhis, the sacred threads symbolising love and protection. Sisters are out in full force, searching for the perfect rakhi for their brothers. Traders are optimistic this year. They expect rakhi sales in Ahmedabad to exceed ₹200 crore. The bustling Kalupur wholesale market is attracting retailers and street vendors not only from Gujarat but also from states like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Rakhis are produced at a low cost, ranging from ₹1.50 to ₹2 per piece. This affordability is boosting sales, even during the monsoon season, which usually slows business. With only a few weeks left until the festival, customer footfall is steadily increasing. Rakhis priced between ₹1.50 and ₹150 are flying off the shelves. A trader from Kalupur stated, “The rakhi season lasts only a month, but the crafting of these beautiful threads is a year-round effort.” Many women in neighbourhoods like Shah Alam, Bapunagar, India Colony, and Ranip work throughout the year to create these unique rakhis. They use materials such as pearls, kundan, beads, and decorative stones. Most of the threads come from Tankshal, while decorative items are sourced from places like Delhi and even China. Popular among children are cartoon-themed and light-up rakhis, mainly imported from Delhi and China. However, at Manek Chowk and Delhi Darwaza, only a few stalls are set up so far, catering mostly to NRIs and international orders. Vendors often hear questions like, “What’s new this year?” Artisans, though often without formal training, showcase their creativity with fresh designs each season. This year, rakhis themed around Shri Ram and the Ram Mandir are particularly in demand. Trendy pastel-coloured and dual-tone rakhis are captivating shoppers, while online sales of resin art, plantable, and personalised rakhis are also on the rise. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) anticipates that festive trade during Rakhi will surpass ₹12,000 crore, a notable increase from previous years. There is a growing preference for indigenous rakhis over imported ones, indicating a shift towards supporting local artisans. Unique rakhis from different parts of India have also attracted significant consumer interest, contributing to the festive trade boom. As the festival nears, the excitement in Ahmedabad continues to build, with vendors and shoppers alike preparing for a celebration that honours the bond between brothers and sisters.
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