Jaipur: With Diwali just around the corner, Jaipur’s firecracker markets are witnessing a surge in last-minute shopping, bringing cheer to traders after a sluggish start to the festive season.From Johari Bazaar and Tripolia Bazaar to Chandpole and the traditional market near Hawa Mahal, shops saw a rush of customers Thursday, with buyers making a beeline for fireworks despite prices being considerably higher than last year.Wholesale traders said sales had picked up considerably as the festival approached.“Customers are visiting shops in large numbers, and the last-minute rush has given business a much-needed push,” said Abdul Saleem, a wholesale firecracker dealer at Johari Bazaar.Young buyers preferred sound-producing crackers such as sutli bombs, bullet bombs, and bottle bombs, while middle-aged customers were more inclined towards light-emitting fireworks, including anar, jameen chakkar and sky shots.Traders said aerial fireworks, popularly known as ‘Hawaiyan’, which illuminate the night sky, were also in demand.Despite prices being nearly 30% higher than last year, traders said demand had picked up. “The demand for both varieties has increased as families look to make the most of the festive celebrations,” said Ramesh Totlani, a wholesaler at Chaura Rasta.Kishan Lal, a wholesaler at Chandpole Bazaar, said customers who had initially postponed their purchases were now turning up in large numbers. “People are no longer waiting for prices to come down. With Diwali approaching, they are coming to the markets and purchasing according to their budgets. Hawaiyan and sound-producing crackers are among the preferred choices,” he said.The traditional firecracker market near Hawa Mahal, known for its long-established wholesale and retail shops, is also drawing families from across the city. “People have been coming to this market for generations. Many customers prefer buying from these old shops because they are familiar with the market and its traders. The rush has increased as Diwali approaches,” said Salim Ali, a wholesale trader there.Meanwhile, the cooperative firecracker store at Bais Godam is attracting budget-conscious buyers with discounts of up to 50% on the maximum retail price (MRP).Traders expect customer footfall to remain strong in the run-up to Diwali.
