India’s Holi festival is expected to generate business exceeding Rs 80,000 crore this year, marking nearly 25 per cent growth from last year’s estimated Rs 60,000 crore, the Confederation of All India Traders (Cait) said.
The trade body attributed the rise to strong consumer demand and a growing preference for domestically manufactured goods, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to promote “Vocal for Local”.
Cait Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said Indian-made products were dominating markets this year, with herbal gulal, natural colours, pichkaris, balloons, pooja materials, sandalwood, apparel and other festive items witnessing robust sales. He added that Chinese goods have seen a significant decline in presence since 2021.
In addition to Holi-specific merchandise, traders are reporting heightened demand for sweets, dry fruits, gift items, flowers, fruits, clothing, furnishing fabrics, groceries, FMCG products and consumer durables. White T-shirts, kurta-pyjamas and salwar suits, traditionally worn during celebrations, along with “Happy Holi” printed T-shirts, are selling briskly.
According to Cait estimates, festive trade in Delhi alone is projected to cross Rs 15,000 crore. Markets across the capital are witnessing heavy footfall, with shops displaying colourful gulal, innovative pichkaris, gujiya garlands and festive gift packs. Sweet shops are also reporting a surge in demand, particularly for traditional Holi delicacies such as gujiya.
Khandelwal said Holi celebrations are being organised on a large scale nationwide. In Delhi, more than 3,000 Holi Milan programmes are being hosted by trade bodies as well as social, cultural and religious organisations. Banquet halls, farmhouses, hotels, restaurants and public parks are almost fully booked for festivities.
In Delhi, Holika Dahan will be observed on 3 March, followed by the festival of colours on 4 March. Consumers are increasingly opting for herbal and natural colours, while children are showing strong interest in pichkaris themed on popular characters such as Spider-Man and Chhota Bheem.
Khandelwal said festivals in India play a crucial role in boosting economic activity and generating large-scale business opportunities, adding that this year’s Holi is expected to benefit traders, retailers, small businesses, cottage industries and the MSME sector across the country. |
