Markets boom with Christmas shoppers in India

21 December, 2012

Markets across the nation witnessed a heavy rush with thousands of people flooding shops decked with decorative items ahead of Christmas. Despite skyrocketing prices, locals in Kolkata are making beeline of shops selling Christmas cakes and trees.

A CUSTOMER, John, talked about the Christmas and the rising prices of things in the festive season. “It's true but never mind. It’s Christmas time, it’s party time and you have to buy something for your sake. It's moreover enjoyment and partying so it’s okay and in spite of the high price, we don't mind shelling out the extra bucks,” he told ANI.

He also mentioned that prices were not so high last year. “But we have to purchase so there is no alternative,” he added. Decorative items including dancing Santa Claus and Christmas trees with musical effects attract thousands of people including children.

Aman, a shopkeeper in Kolkata said, “We are hopeful that the sale will pick up. We have put up the stalls in that hope only. We are doing good business and it might improve in the coming days.”

An exuberant wave of cheer and festivity has also gripped Meghalaya ahead of Christmas as people prepare for the festival with gusto and high spirits. A shopkeeper Kamal Verma spoke about the variety of Christmas items on display. “We have varieties for different people- lower income group and the higher income group people. What we are enjoying now is the pre-sale of Christmas. From 21 December to 25 December the actual sale would pick up.”

Marking the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas is celebrated across the world on 25 December. People from all faiths enjoy a holiday and a cake on Christmas in India.