Stalls at Ravivar Peth selling baskets and puja items for Navaratra
Shubangi Thorat, who runs a stall selling puja essentials, said, “People are buying kalash, coconut, red chunari, flowers, incense sticks and other items for Ghatasthapana on the first day of Navaratra. We have also stocked small puja kits for families who want to perform the rituals at home,” she said. Navaratra gives us a reason to do both,” she said.
Religious preparations are also driving footfall. Thorat expects the rush to build as people complete their preparations over the weekend. The festive shopping list can extend to home decor, too. Priyanka Majumdar bought a bandhini dupatta and a traditional skirt from a temporary neighbourhood stall, opting for pieces that would not require a large outlay for occasional wear. She also picked up diyas and decorative torans for the house. “My mother prefers to keep the puja traditional, while the younger ones at home are keen on dressing up and going out in the evenings. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Pune | Silver Rate in Pune | Bank Holidays in Pune | Public Holidays in Pune | Petrol Price in Pune | Diesel Price in Pune | CNG Price in Pune | LPG Price in Pune
For shoppers, the preparations are a mix of religious observance and social plans. others are looking for outfits that will work across multiple festive evenings without stretching their budgets While some are stocking up on ritual essentials for home. Temporary stalls have sprung up across neighbourhoods in Pune selling ghagra-cholis, bandhini dupattas, dandiya sticks and decorative embellishments. These stalls offer an alternative to established clothing stores, particularly for those looking for traditional designs without investing in expensive outfits.