Bengaluru (Karnataka): Shops across the city witnessed heavy footfall on Saturday as people flocked to buy silver, utensils, clothes, and other items, marking the start of Deepavali festivities with Dhanteras celebrations.
Long queues and festive cheer
At Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation Ltd in Majestic, shoppers patiently waited for hours to buy traditional attire. Arati Ravi Patil, 63, purchased a Mysore Silk sari after waiting over two hours. She described the experience as joyful, saying, “We arrived at 10am. The store got stocks around 11.30am and we were allowed inside by 12.05pm.” Holding her sari like a treasure, she added that Dhanteras brings positivity and good vibes.
In addition to the sari, Arati bought gold bangles for her granddaughter, Advaya, in honour of the festival, which is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi (wealth and prosperity), Lord Kubera (treasurer of wealth), and Lord Dhanvantari (god of Ayurveda and health).
Diverse purchases amid rising gold prices
Other shoppers also embraced the festive spirit. Radhika Vaitheeswaran, a resident of Cambridge Layout, bought silver tumblers, saris, and gift hampers for family and friends. Despite the spike in gold prices, many opted for silver and other alternatives.
Neha Arora, 43, operations head at a private firm, purchased a silver coin online for Rs 4,500, noting the convenience of online shopping. “Dhanteras is not about how much you buy. It is about celebrating gratitude, goodness, and the light of new beginnings,” she said.
Festive mood across the city
The city’s markets were abuzz with activity, as families stocked up on essentials, gifts, and festive items. Retailers reported a steady flow of customers throughout the day, with many expressing joy at participating in the traditional rituals associated with Dhanteras.