The Diwali festivities in Hyderabad have not brought much joy to traders selling traditional Diwali items such as diyas, lights, door hangings, and crackers. Merchants in Begum Bazar and Secunderabad are reporting moderate sales this year compared to previous years. The traders believe that the subdued atmosphere is due to the impact of the election code on their business. The usually bustling streets of Secunderabad and Begum Bazar have only seen a moderate crowd this year.
Fireworks traders have noticed significantly low demand, even though most of them are selling environmentally friendly green crackers. They are disappointed with the limited interest in crackers, especially since prices have increased by 10 percent compared to last year. Despite following safety protocols and obtaining permission from the police department for their stalls, the traders are struggling to attract customers. They are hopeful for a last-minute surge in sales as there is only one day left until the festival.
Suresh Jain, a vendor in Begum Bazar, had stocked various decorative items this year in anticipation of good business. However, the response has been moderate compared to previous years when there would usually be a rush in front of their shops a week before the festival. Sirisha, a diya seller at Pot Market in Secunderabad, attributes the decline in business to a shortage of clay and the increasing preference among urban residents for colorful crafted diyas.
Overall, traders are disappointed with the lack of enthusiasm and lower sales this Diwali season.
