As the crucial election counting day of November 14 approaches, flower vendors across Patna are experiencing an unprecedented boom in their business, with sales doubling and even tripling compared to regular weeks. The political fever has transformed their typically seasonal trade into a round-the-clock operation.
Round-the-Clock Floral Preparations
The air in Patna's major flower hubs including Kankarbagh, Fraser Road, and Dak Bungalow Chowk is thick with the fragrance of fresh blooms and the sounds of frantic activity. Vendors report working continuously to meet the overwhelming demand from political parties, candidates, and their supporters who are placing bulk orders for traditional marigold garlands, rose bouquets, lavender arrangements, and carnation displays.
Rajesh Kumar, a florist operating from Exhibition Road, confirmed the extraordinary surge. "We haven't seen anything like this in regular seasons. Political parties, candidates, and their supporters are coming with massive orders for traditional marigold garlands, rose, lavender, and carnation bouquets, along with customized floral arrangements to celebrate their anticipated victories or extend goodwill gestures," he explained.
Florists Struggle to Meet Demand
The pressure on flower vendors has become intense in the final days leading to the counting. Kamalkant Singh, a vendor at Kankarbagh, revealed the exhausting schedule his team has been maintaining. "We haven't had a moment to rest in the past five days. Orders are pouring in bulk for November 14. Some workers have placed orders for bouquets while others requested garlands featuring party symbols," Singh stated.
Nishant Kumar, also known as Pushpak, who runs a flower shop on Thakurbari Road, described how they've started sourcing fresh flowers from West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh to meet the extraordinary demand. "Our workers begin stringing marigold garlands early morning, and we've already started delivering flower strings for decoration purposes. Many political workers and supporters are placing bulk orders for bouquets to greet their candidates, confident about their victory," he added.
Premium Flowers and Pricing Surge
The floral demand isn't limited to traditional varieties. Shailendra Kumar, a florist at Dinkar Chowk, noted that political parties are opting for premium flowers including orchids, lilies, and daisies alongside conventional choices like roses, carnations, and jasmine. The bouquet prices have seen a significant range, starting from Rs 550 and going up to Rs 4,000, depending on the flower selection, green leaves, and decorative elements incorporated.
Manoj Prasad, a vendor near R-Block, highlighted that the floral demand began building up since the start of the election season. "From roadshows to political rallies, parties have been approaching us to decorate raths, vehicles, and meeting venues. Even flower petals are being purchased in bulk quantities. Most orders are intended for victory processions or candidate felicitations," Prasad explained, adding that the experience goes beyond mere business—it makes them feel part of the election excitement sweeping through Patna.
