Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 22: The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) on Sunday projected that business during the upcoming Holi festival will exceed Rs 80,000 crore nationwide, marking an estimated 25 per cent rise from last year’s Rs 60,000 crore turnover.
CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said the surge reflects robust consumer demand and growing preference for domestically manufactured goods. He attributed the trend to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Vocal for Local” call, noting that Indian-made products are dominating markets this festive season.
According to CAIT, herbal gulal, natural colours, pichkaris, balloons, ???? materials, sandalwood, garments and other festive merchandise produced locally are witnessing strong sales. In contrast, Chinese-made goods, which once held a sizable market share, have seen a marked decline since 2021.
Beyond Holi-specific products, markets are experiencing heightened demand for sweets, dry fruits, gift packs, flowers, fruits, clothing, furnishing fabrics, groceries, FMCG items and consumer durables. Traditional white T-shirts, kurta-pyjamas, salwar suits and “Happy Holi” printed apparel are also selling briskly.
In Delhi alone, festive trade is expected to surpass Rs 15,000 crore. Markets across the capital are drawing heavy footfall, with shops displaying vibrant gulal varieties, designer pichkaris, decorative gujiya garlands and curated gift hampers. Sweet shops, particularly those selling festive favourites like gujiya, are reporting a significant rise in orders.
Khandelwal said large-scale Holi celebrations are being organised across the country. In Delhi, over 3,000 Holi Milan events are planned by trade associations and social, cultural and religious groups. Banquet halls, farmhouses, hotels, restaurants and public parks are nearly fully booked for festivities.
This year, Holika Dahan in Delhi will be observed on March 3, followed by the festival of colours on March 4.
Consumers are increasingly opting for herbal and eco-friendly colours, while children are gravitating toward themed pichkaris featuring popular characters such as Spider-Man and Chhota Bheem.
Emphasising the broader economic impact, Khandelwal said festivals like Holi generate substantial commercial activity, benefiting traders, retailers, small enterprises, cottage industries and the MSME sector, while reinforcing the spirit of swadeshi commerce across India.