Tricolour adds patriotic spirit to city markets

Guwahati: On the eve of Republic Day, city markets were lined up with tricolour flags, badges, caps and other items. From roadside vendors to small stationery shops, stalls have been stocked with items ranging from miniature paper flags to large cloth banners.

However, traders say the festive buzz is missing this year, with sales remaining sluggish compared to previous years.




The vendors displayed plastic and cloth flags priced between Rs 20 and Rs 500, depending on size and material. Small hand-held paper flags were being sold for Rs 20, while medium-sized cloth flags cost between Rs 150 to Rs 250. Tri-coloured badges were priced between Rs 10 and Rs 30.

Despite the variety, shopkeepers say footfall was significantly low. “Earlier, we would sell hundreds of flags in a day during the week before Republic Day. This time, people are just looking, asking prices, and leaving,” said Ramesh Kumar, a vendor at Fancy Bazaar who has been selling national flags for the last five years.

While traders are waiting for a last-minute rise in sales, many still remain unsure. However, with tricolour waving in the streets and more people stepping out in the evenings, shopkeepers are hopeful that the occasion’s spirit will bring better business in the final days.

Salma Begum, who runs a small stationery store near Dhirenpara, said, “The prices of raw materials have gone up, but we cannot increase rates much. However, I am hopeful, as people often visit the markets in the evening.”

While flags remain an important symbol during Republic Day celebrations, many citizens say their choice to reuse old flags come from simple, everyday practicality and a sense of responsibility. “I already have flags at home from previous years. It feels wasteful to buy new ones every time. We should respect the flag, not treat it like a disposable item,” said Anupam Dhar, a Chandmari resident.

Few residents opted for a more minimal celebration. “I just wear a badge or reuse a cap I already have. Patriotism doesn’t depend on how much you spend,” said Yuvraj Sarmah, a Kahilipara resident.
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