Seeing shops in the city adorned with a mind-boggling variety of rakhis makes one think how Raksha Bandhan, a predominantly North Indian festival has assumed so much importance in our state. But with a number of North Indians migrating to the state, Kochites are becoming increasingly aware of these festivals. “Earlier only North Indians came to buy rakhis but over the years even Malayalis are coming in search of new varieties of rakhis,” says Jaydeep of Rinku Fancy Stores. There are rakhis that come as cheap as ` 1 and ` 5, and its price goes up to ` 100 . “There is a 10 per cent increase in the rakhi sale when compared to the previous year,” adds Jaydeep.
Naturally then, varieties and designs of rakhis have been on the rise with every passing year. Attractive designer rakhis with mini teddy bears, flowers, dolls or cartoon characters adorn the market.
“This year people are going in for designer rakhis. They are expensive but it gives a classy look. There is ‘lumba rakhi’ which adorn the wrist with kundan and beads work. They cost around ` 150,” says Shamna, sales girl at Archies Gallery in the city. To attract children, light emitting rakhis with cartoon characters on them like Bal Hanuman, Micky Mouse are available. “Usually kids aged between five to 12 years prefer these kind of rakhis. They are funny and look cool on the kid’s wrists,” adds Shamna.
Rakhi thalis which come in a complete set are the new addition this year. “Rakhi thalis cost around ` 399. There are also simple rakhi thalis starting from ` 179,” says Shamna.
For college goers in the city, Raksha Bandhan is also an occasion for some leg-pulling and pranks. Says Preeti of St Albert’s College, “On this day boys usually stay away from girls as they are afraid that they might tie them a rakhi and make them their adopted brothers.”
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