Sky lanterns and kite-coloured lanterns seem to be fascinating Diwali shoppers more than the traditional lanterns made up of wooden structures this year. “This is a new trend and we are adapting ourselves in tune with the changing trend,” said a trader who sells Diwali decors from his shop in a bustling market in the city.
Over the time, things are changing with the people setting more stores by gaudiness than by traditions and the innate beauty. The Diwali lanterns symbolise the fast- changing trend. This is discernible in everything that goes with Diwali. In the pattern of apparels, the tradition is yielding place to glitter. The decors have undergone the same change.
lanterns made up of colorful cloth which people think can be used again and again are becoming their first choice.
However, all have not been swept off their cultural moorings as they choose to cling to the traditional in preference to the gaudy while they are on Diwali shopping spree. “We love traditional lanterns. They have their own old- world charms. They remind us of Diwalis of our childhood days,” said a home-maker Smita.
The youngsters are, as expected, are opting for the sky lanterns. Old type lanterns have ceased to attract them. “This is true. My friends are doing the same and I am falling in line,” said a college student Rajiv, found enquiring about the lantern at an over-crowded shop in Paltan Bazar.
These lanterns are available on many online shopping sites too and their prices range from Rs150 to Rs250, depending upon the sizes.
“It is hard to find such new things at every shop in the city. We would rather order it from shopping sites which will save our time also,” said Ridhima, a student.
Glass lantern which also looks good is also becoming the buyers’ choice. Such lanternsare available at the range of Rs200 to Rs1,000, depending upon its designs and sizes.
lights of different shapes are much in demand too. Electric lamps shaped like diya and rotating colorful bulbs, special ones for trees, T- shaped lights are being sold in the shops in good measure. However, the earthen Diyas, the quintessence of traditional Diwali celebration, are on their way out.
Vendors standing outside the shops selling artificial flower garlands at cheaper rates are drawing buyers. “We are doing brisk business,” one of them said.