As the harvest festival of Makar Sankranti approaches, the markets of Hyderabad are already teeming with enthusiastic crowds. Residents have begun their festive shopping in large numbers, seeking traditional items like Rangoli colours, Muggu powder, decorative nets, and other ornaments to celebrate in authentic style.
Shopkeepers See Exceptional Festive Business
Lakshman Lal, a shop owner from the bustling Himayat Nagar area, expressed optimism about having exceptional business in 2026. His shop sells a wide array of festive supplies, including Rangoli, Jali, and Naurang Mukku colours. He noted a strong response from customers of all age groups.
Detailing the affordable pricing, Lal mentioned that Muggu packets are priced at just ₹10, while the decorative Muggu nets range between ₹10 and ₹40. His shop boasts an impressive selection, offering at least 25 varieties of colours sourced from major hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, and local Hyderabad markets, attracting families and children alike.
Customers Embrace Tradition and Variety
A regular customer praised the shop for its extensive range of Jali designs and colourful powders, which keep her coming back. Another longtime Sankranti enthusiast shared nostalgic memories, recalling how people in the past prepared Muggu using natural ingredients like cow dung and soap sourced from villages.
She remembered seeing large Muggu designs in front of houses during Bhogi and Sankranti, describing the practice as a cherished daily tradition during the festive period. Customer Shakti Pami explained the familial celebrations, which involve preparing traditional dishes such as til ladoo and til dal.
"Many also draw Rangoli designs depicting Pongal pots, kites, cows, and chariots, followed by special poojas at home," she added, painting a picture of the holistic celebration.
The Deep Cultural Significance of Sankranti
Another local, Lakshmi, highlighted the profound cultural importance of Makar Sankranti. She stated that the festival reflects people's colours, traditions, and way of life. Elaborating on specific rituals, she spoke about the practice of keeping milk pots on rooftops and preparing "Gauramma" using a mixture of cow dung, turmeric, and holy water to symbolize Navadhanya and prosperity.
Local shopkeepers across Hyderabad are reporting robust business this season, with both children and families flocking to purchase Rangoli colours and other festive essentials. To cater to the rush and heavy demand, shops have ensured they are selling a wide variety of colours while maintaining adequate stock for all customers, ensuring the festive spirit is accessible to everyone in the city.
