Rakhis shaped like earrings, soft toys, tortoises in demand

Mumbai: Rakhi sales began to peak on Monday, ahead of Thursday’s festival of Raksha Bandhan.

A rare finesse has entered the rakhi manufacturing industry that has altered the simple silken thread into various artistic pieces. Earrings, tassels and miniature soft toys are being used as centrepieces this year, prompting impulse shopping among women and children.

A cursory glance at the counter makes it seem as if one has arrived in a women’s accessory store. “It is true that these are more suited to women’s tastes, but men have no qualms tying them. They know that trends have changed from the classic swastika or satin flowers,” says Vijay, a vendor. He says women choose tassels to tie on the wrists of female relatives and friends.

Another latest centrepiece is a bright-eyed tortoise straight out of the film 'Katha' which is drawing buyers in droves. Each patch on its shell is cast in a different colour, lending it an exquisite ornamental look. And if any more persuasion was needed, Amol says the 'kachhua' brings "barkat" (abundance).

This year, silver rakhis with motifs of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Laxmi that cost over Rs 1,000 are being sold at streetside stalls. “We source them from jewellers. These days people are willing to spend more on Raksha Bandhan so we stock a range of silken threads from Rs 10 to Rs 1,060,” says Amol Modgatte, whose shop in Four Bungalows market does not close even by night.

Kalbadevi wholesaler Ashok Patole says, "Over the years, the rakhi has transformed into a friendship band. No longer do women buy rakhis just for brothers or male cousins. Some use them as gifts for single children who miss having a sibling. Children buy for classmates or friends in their neighbourhood."