As Makar Sankranti approaches, the iconic kite markets of Jaipur's Walled City are adorned with vibrant hues, yet the usual festive frenzy is building at a slower pace. Unpredictable weather, including foggy mornings and intermittent clouds, has temporarily dampened the pre-festival shopping rush, but traders remain optimistic for a strong surge in the coming days.
Weather Dampens Early Festive Momentum
A visit to the traditional kite hubs on Friday revealed a scene of visual splendour but measured sales activity. Key markets like Handipura, Tripolia Bazaar, Haldiyon Ka Rasta in Johari Bazaar, and Chandpole Bazaar are stocked high with kites of all shapes and sizes, alongside a diverse array of manjhas (kite strings).
"We are expecting good sales this weekend. So far, the weather was not favourable for kite flying due to fog and rain, but buyers in Jaipur usually start shopping two weeks before the festival," said Mushtaq Khan, a wholesale trader based in Handipura. This sentiment is echoed across the market, where the festive buzz began early this year but has yet to translate into full-fledged buying momentum.
Traders Bullish Despite Price Hike
An interesting trend noted by sellers is the current cautious purchasing pattern. Anwar Sheikh, a wholesale trader at Haldiyon Ka Rasta, pointed out, "Right now, customers are buying only five to ten kites in a day. Buyers who usually purchase three to five kaudi (one kaudi equals 20 kites) are yet to arrive."
This hesitancy, however, is not attributed to cost. Traders confirm a significant 25% to 40% increase in kite prices compared to the previous year. Despite this, confidence runs high. A seasoned kite dealer at Chandpole Bazaar asserted, "Makar Sankranti comes once a year and I don't think weather or prices can discourage kite lovers." The demand typically begins its upward climb by the last week of December.
Weekend Rush and Future Outlook
All eyes are now on the weekend and the final week leading up to the festival. Sales are currently steady, with traders anticipating a sharp rise as the celebration draws nearer. The markets are fully prepared, visually vibrant and stocked, waiting for the clouds to clear and the Jaipur sky to fill with colourful kites.
The resilience of this tradition is evident. Even with higher prices and less-than-ideal weather forecasts, the spirit of Makar Sankranti is expected to draw crowds to these historic markets, ensuring that the age-old ritual of kite flying continues to colour the skies of the Pink City.
