Coimbatore's Flag Industry in Full Swing as Republic Day Nears
With just three days remaining until the 77th Republic Day celebrations, the manufacturing of tricolour flags is operating at peak capacity in Coimbatore. Local manufacturers report a surge in orders, primarily sourced from Kerala, as they work tirelessly to meet the deadline. However, this seasonal boost contrasts with a broader trend: a noticeable decline in tricolour flag supply over the past decade, particularly during Republic Day observances.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Livelihood
R Rajendran, a flag printer who has been in the business since 1975 in Coimbatore, highlights the personal and economic significance of this work. "This has been my livelihood, and I have provided job orders to many women working from home," he explains. Production for Republic Day began in December last year, and with the deadline looming, the pace has intensified. Rajendran notes that demand for tricolour flags is generally higher on Independence Day compared to Republic Day. Annually, his operation sells around 3 lakh tricolour flags, including exports to Indian nationals living abroad in cities like Paris and Dubai.
Shifting Trends: Political Flags on the Rise
Amid the Republic Day rush, flag manufacturers are observing a parallel increase in sales of political flags, driven by upcoming elections. Rajendran anticipates a sales uptick this year as party members are expected to hoist flags at their office premises. Another flag printer from Coimbatore reveals that among political flags, DMK flags have historically been the top sellers, followed by AIADMK. "We witnessed more sales of BJP flags this financial year due to local body elections in Kerala," he adds, indicating regional political dynamics influencing demand.
Declining Republic Day Sales and Market Insights
K Balamurugan, proprietor of Gandhiji Khadhar Store, provides further context on sales patterns. He states that Republic Day sales typically reach around 50,000 flags, while Independence Day sales nearly double to a lakh. Over the last 10 years, Republic Day sales have been declining because fewer people hoist flags and organize programmes, including educational institutions. "Only a limited number of people participate actively during Republic Day," Balamurugan remarks, underscoring the changing public engagement with the occasion.
Political Flag Sales Surge Ahead of Elections
Balamurugan also notes a significant increase in political flag sales, particularly for AIADMK flags. Normally, about 10,000 political flags are sold from his store, but this time, an additional 4,000 have been moved. "These numbers are likely to exceed, and we expect to reach a lakh this year as new parties have emerged," he predicts, pointing to a vibrant political landscape boosting the flag industry. This trend suggests that while tricolour demand may be waning for Republic Day, political fervor is driving a new wave of business for Coimbatore's manufacturers.
