Mumbai is abuzz with shops selling colourful rakhis ahead of Rakshabandhan (August 19). This year, Mumbaikars are spoilt for choice with American diamond rakhis, evil eye rakhis, bracelet rakhis, exquisite lumbas and superhero-themed rakhis. These are priced anywhere between `6 to `1,000
depending on the style, quality and materials used. We spoke to stall owners and shopkeepers about the latest trends...
‘We have exquisite lumbas this year’
While this traditional rakhi has been there for years, this season there are some never-seen-before styles of lumbas. Afzal, a rakhi seller, says, “We have exquisite lumbas this year. They are bejewelled, stone studded, some have American diamonds and are designed in such a way that they can be worn as bracelets later. They are priced between `250 - `800.” These rakhis are meant for the brother’s wife. It is connected to the bangle of the sister-in-law and is said to protect and bring harmony.
Roli chawal
The simplest one priced at `20 is just a pair of sachets, there are also tiny printed cards with two mini packets inside. “This year we have a unique roli chawal bouquet made of burlap, decorated with kundan flowers and tiny mirrors, which is priced around `150 - `250,” says Chintan, a rakhi seller.
Puja thalis
Rakhi celebrations cannot be complete without a decorative puja thali. Vansh Bhayani, who owns a wholesale shop that deals in rakhis, says, “This year there is a massive variety available, right from smaller metal ones, to intricately done up gold or silver-plated thalis, meenakari designs, pital thalis with 3D art, and also some handmade artistic ones.”
What’s New?
* Rudraksh bracelet
* Evil eye rakhi
* Meenakari rakhi
* Reusable bracelet rakhis
* Kundan and American diamonds rakhi
* Bracelet lumba
Shin-chan remains popular this year, too, in the kid’s section. Bal Hanuman, Doraemon, Motu Patlu, Peppa Pig, Ironman, Captain America, and Marvel heroes are among the other favourites.
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