Prayagraj Markets Bustle with Demand for Natural Holi Colors Ahead of Festival
With the vibrant festival of Holi just around the corner, markets across Prayagraj are experiencing a significant surge in activity. Key commercial hubs such as Civil Lines, Katra, Mumfordganj, Rajapur, Sulemsarai, Chowk, and Kothaparcha are packed with shops offering a wide array of colors and pichkaris. This year, there is a notable trend toward natural and herbal colors, with customers increasingly opting for skin-friendly alternatives over traditional synthetic options.
Shift Toward Herbal and Natural Colors
Long queues have become a common sight at temporary stalls selling herbal gulal and abeer, particularly in upscale localities. Shopkeepers report a clear shift in consumer preferences in recent years, driven by growing awareness of health and environmental concerns. "Customers are increasingly asking for natural colors, abeer, and gulal," said one trader, highlighting the change in demand patterns.
Another shopkeeper, Nitin from Civil Lines, elaborated on this transformation: "Things have changed. Holi is no longer limited to colors and gulal. New festive items are flooding the markets, but packaged herbal colors are currently the top sellers." These products are not only being purchased for home celebrations but also for use in offices and housing societies, reflecting a broader adoption of safer festive practices.
Consumer Preferences and Market Trends
The preference for natural colors is rooted in their skin-friendly properties, as emphasized by local resident Rajul Bhargava: "We always prefer herbal gulal and abeer because they suit everyone's skin. The tradition of using synthetic colors has changed." This sentiment is echoed by many shoppers who are prioritizing safety and quality during the festive season.
Market observations indicate that the demand for herbal and natural colors has led to a bustling trade, with shops stocking a variety of options to cater to diverse tastes. The shift is not just a passing trend but appears to be a sustained movement toward more sustainable and health-conscious celebrations.
As Holi approaches, the markets in Prayagraj continue to thrive, with the emphasis on natural colors setting a positive tone for the festivities. This trend underscores a growing global awareness of eco-friendly practices, even in traditional celebrations.
