As Christmas draws near, the city of Kolkata witnessed a significant surge in last-minute shoppers this Sunday, marking the final weekend before the festive day. Markets and shopping malls across the metropolis were teeming with people eager to complete their festive purchases.
Festive Frenzy Grips City Markets
The hunt for Christmas essentials was in full swing. Shoppers were particularly keen on acquiring Christmas trees, decorative items, Santa-themed clothing, and various memorabilia. The demand for traditional baked goods was exceptionally high, with items like plum cakes, fruit cakes, and Dundee cakes disappearing rapidly from shelves. Beyond the crowded markets, the city's landscape has been transformed with festive lights and decorations, amplifying the celebratory atmosphere.
Traditional Bakeries and Market Hubs See Heavy Footfall
For generations, local bakeries have been the cornerstone of Kolkata's Christmas celebrations, where families gather to buy cakes. This year is no exception. The iconic Nahoum's bakery in New Market, renowned for its rich fruit cakes, attracted hundreds of customers. A representative from the bakery noted that footfall has been consistently strong over the past two weeks. Improved Metro connectivity to New Market is believed to have contributed to the increased visitor numbers. Similar scenes unfolded at Park Street and other prominent market areas, with numerous temporary shops set up to cater to the festive demand.
High Interest But Mixed Sales Sentiments
Despite the visible enthusiasm and crowded lanes, some shopkeepers expressed a nuanced view of the season's performance. A New Market shopkeeper observed that while many people are visiting and inquiring about products, the actual sales figures have not fully matched the apparent enthusiasm. In Hatibagan, where 15 dedicated Christmas decoration shops have been operational since the first week of December, vendors reported a similar trend of heavy footfall but somewhat subdued sales. They also pointed out an evolution in consumer tastes, noting a shift from traditional Santa figurines and trees towards more elaborate and fancy items, such as a Santa Claus figurine equipped with a parachute.
The final countdown to Christmas has undoubtedly infused Kolkata with vibrant energy, as residents rush to usher in the festivities with the perfect decorations and treats, even as businesses gauge the season's commercial pulse.
