Guwahati Markets Buzzing for Rongali Bihu, But Sales Lag Due to Election Timing
Markets across Guwahati are awash with festive essentials as shoppers weave through stalls ahead of Rongali Bihu, eagerly picking up traditional delicacies, attire, and Assamese scarves. From the bustling lanes of Khanapara to Dighalipukhuri, the festive buzz is unmissable, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the city.
Election Timing Dampens Festive Sales
Despite the crowds, traders report that sales are not keeping pace with the footfall. Vendors from districts such as Nalbari, Kamrup, and Golaghat point to a key dampener: the timing of elections just ahead of Bihu. With many residents traveling home to vote, the increased presence of people in markets has not translated into robust sales, leaving small traders worried during what is typically their most crucial window for revenue.
Sharat Das, a seller from Nalbari, explained, "Many have traveled back to their native places to cast their votes, which led to a dip in the number of buyers. This is our peak season, and it is crucial for small-scale traders like us."
Traders Voice Concerns Over Browsing vs. Buying
Bijoy Rabha, another seller from Kamrup district, echoed these sentiments, stating, "We are seeing people in the markets, but they are either browsing or making minimal purchases. Compared to previous years, the sales are not matching the footfall." Other traders have raised similar concerns, adding that the elections held just before the festive period have divided public attention and spending capacity.
One seller remarked, "If the election dates were postponed, it would have been better for us," highlighting the direct impact on their livelihoods.
Traditional Bihu Essentials Flood the Markets
The markets are brimming with traditional Bihu essentials, including:
- Gamosas (traditional Assamese scarves)
- Dhols (traditional drums)
- Festive ornaments
- Traditional attire like dhoti and kurta
Additionally, a variety of festive food items are available, such as:
- Poka mithoi (Assamese spiced rice flour balls) at Rs 70 per packet
- Black rice at Rs 160 per kg
- Pitha starting from Rs 60–80 per packet
- Bora dhanor seera (flattened bora rice) at Rs 160 per kg
- Mahor dali (split black gram) at Rs 180 per kg
- Sunga pitha from Rs 100 onwards
- Coconut jaggery dumplings priced between Rs 80 and Rs 100 per packet
- Black sesame at about Rs 300 per kg
Hope for Last-Minute Sales and Festive Preparations
Despite these concerns, traders remain hopeful that sales may pick up on the eve of the festival, as shoppers are expected to step out in larger numbers for last-minute purchases. Meanwhile, the city continues to prepare for Bihu with cultural programs, community feasts, and traditional performances lined up to mark the Assamese New Year, ensuring the festive spirit remains high.
