Film theme & electric-gun pichkaris, gulal cannons up for grabs at Indore markets this Holi

Indore: With Holi round the corner, the narrow lanes of Indore's traditional Holi markets have turned into a riot of colour and commerce. From stacked cartons of gulal to rows of brightly shaped pichkaris, the city's traditional wholesale market is witnessing brisk activity ahead of the festival.This year, cinema-inspired designs are leading the rush. Pushpa-themed axe, hammer and mace shaped pichkaris, influenced by the film Pushpa 2, are among children's top picks. Models branded around films such as Border 2 and Dhurandhar are also drawing attention. "Children walk in asking for the ‘Pushpa axe' directly. They want something dramatic and different," said Tulsi Ramrakhyani, a trader in Ranipura.Alongside film-themed designs, electric and rechargeable water guns became a major attraction. USB-charging LED water guns and high-pressure electric pichkaris, priced between Rs 350 and Rs 1,550, are selling steadily. "Battery and rechargeable water guns are easy to refill and spray farther. Older children prefer these high-pressure cannons," said Amit, another shopkeeper from Jail Road. Long-range water cannons that can spray up to 30 metre and backpack tank pichkaris with 1.5 to 2 litre capacity are particularly popular.Political-themed pichkaris featuring images of prominent political leaders have also entered the market. These pump and tank models are drawing curiosity, especially among young buyers.A notable shift this year is the rising demand for gulal cylinders and pressurised spray guns that release dry colour instead of water. Prices begin at Rs 400 and go up to Rs 5000 for larger cylinders. "Housing societies are planning organised events, so bulk gulal spray cans are in demand," said Mohit Chandani, another trader from Ranipura area. The festive buzz extends beyond colours. Youth groups are placing special orders for theme-based t-shirts featuring Radha-Krishna prints, film dialogues and cartoon characters. "Our entire group is getting matching Holi t-shirts this time. It feels more fun and planned," said a college student Riya Sharma. Mini bucket pichkaris are also seeing steady demand, with many customers purchasing them for home temples to symbolically offer colours to Lord Krishna during Holi rituals.Traders report that while wholesale business is currently strong, retail sales are likely to peak three days before Holi. Herbal colours continue to see growing demand, with many parents opting for skin-friendly options.As Indore prepares for the festival of colours, its markets reflect a blend of cinema, technology and tradition, all competing for space in children's eager hands.