Cake, pastry shops usher in spirit of Christmas

By: Debjani Chakraborty
RANCHI: With less than a fortnight to go, Christmas shopping has started in the state capital in full swing with shops dotted across the city luring the customers with fancy Christmas decor and delicious baked goodies to munch on. Though the branded outlets are going out of their ways to woo the Christmas shoppers, it is the row of dainty little shops on Purulia Road that are pulling in the biggest numbers, just like every year.The street, with its little shops has transformed into a Christmas wonderland complete with bells, stars, snowflakes and Santa Claus, all coated with the Christmassy glee and cheer.
And just like every other street market, this area has managed to keep down the costs for an affordable yet fulfilling shopping experience for Christmas. Rahul Kumar, a shopkeeper beside St Xavier's College, said, "Shimmery decor items are in this season. Be it lights or the good old Christmas star, glitter items are in huge demand this year." Various types of decorative lights are available in the market ranging between Rs 200 and Rs 2,000.
"Trees come in at varied shapes and sizes the smallest ones begin at Rs 50 and the price can shoot up to Rs 3,000 for five-feet-high tree," said Kumar. Another item that is in huge demand are the fancy candles, that are available in packs of six, priced between Rs 80 and Rs 300. Be it star shaped, aromatic or floating, every kind of candle has a special clientele during the season.