Firecracker sales in Bengaluru have been sluggish as the city marked the third day of Deepavali festivities. While some vendors reported steady sales, others experienced a decline of 20 to 30 percent compared to last year. Girish, a firecracker seller in Jayanagar, observed reduced sales for the festival season, although off-season sales remained unaffected.
In contrast, V Keshav, president of the Vishala Karnataka Fireworks Traders’ Welfare Association, reported satisfactory sales, highlighting strong numbers on October 31 and optimistic expectations for November 1 and 2.
Amid intensified police checks, shopkeepers noted that selling non-green firecrackers has become exceedingly difficult, with authorities strictly monitoring to prevent the sale of illegal products. A vendor explained that shopkeepers pay rent to stall owners, who manage all necessary documentation, including trade license verification.
This subdued sales trend may also indicate a growing awareness of the environmental impact of firecrackers. Lingarajapuram resident Meghdeep Patnaik shared, “I stopped bursting crackers about 15 years ago as I became more conscious of the harm to the environment and animals. Now, I spend Deepavali on the couch, comforting my dog.”
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