Aurangabad, Dec 22:
With only two days left for Christmas, people are rushing to the markets for shopping. Many are thronging markets to complete their last-minute purchases of items like clothes, sweets, toys and cakes. However, the maximum demand is seen for Santa Claus dresses, Christmas trees and gifts.
The preparations of the Christian community to celebrate Christmas are in full swing across the city. The community members are decorating houses and Churches to celebrate the day with full zeal and fervour. Although the markets were not witnessing the usual hustle bustle this year due to the spread of Covid-19, however, a good number of people were rushing to markets, particularly Gulmandi, Osmanpura, Aurangpura, Cidco, TV Center and other places in the city. People are also busy buying decor items for Christmas trees and homes, new clothes, toys for children and other things to exchange gifts. Traders said that due to outbreak of pandemic this year Christmas shopping was not the same as before. The rush in the markets was much less than in previous years. However, the rush increased since Sunday. New clothes and sweets are especially in demand. People are also buying gifts for their relatives. However, due to the pandemic, fewer items have been brought for sale. As a result, prices of Santa Claus dresses, hats and Christmas trees have risen by 20 per cent. Houses, streets and Churches are specially decorated for the event.
Advance booking for cakes
The community members specially buy cakes, sweets and chocolates to celebrate the occasion. Hence many have placed advance orders for cakes and sweets. This year, cakes are priced between Rs 400 to Rs 3,000. Similarly, custom made chocolates are also available at Rs 200 to Rs 1,500. Bakers are seen busy making custom order cakes for customers.