Republic Day 2014: Thaneites ready to paint the city Tricolour

THANE: The city is gripped with Republic Day fever. One look around the city and you can ensure that the patriotic fervour is at its zenith. Residents of Thane are out on the streets to usher in the mood of the day while some have already made plans on a community level.
Right from the swanky malls to the modest retail outlets to the street side stalls, everything is trying to make the most of the patriotic wave.Malls are arranging several events to celebrate the day with mega discounts while clothes with tri-colour combination are also a rage. Curios and flags sold on the roadside are also selling fast while sweet shops and restaurants also plan R-day special spread. Societies are also gearing up with celebrations in their respective complexes.
Several malls in the city have promised handsome discounts on the occasion of this day and have already geared up with adequate security mechanisms to handle the mammoth crowd expected every year. "We expect a huge crowd as is the case with our brand every year and this year its going to be no different," says the manager of a mall in Thane. Some retail garment outlets have come up with combinations of the tri-colour on display. "The trend of wearing clothes that display the tri-colours has become a trend of late with collegians and some office goers also," says Rohit More, a collegian from Waghbil.
Those wanting to usher in the Republic day by celebrating outdoors have ample options and can ensure a lavish spread at several outlets. "
We are planning something exclusive for the day," says the owner of a premium hotel on Ghodbunder Road.
Nowadays, the concept of having sweets in tricolours has also become popular. "Tri-colour malai rolls have always been a favourite with customers," says Mahendra Sawant, a sweetshop owner.
Several societies also planning to usher in the R-day with festive celebrations. Many organise community festivals or pooja or sports that also becomes a good way to socialize.
"This is a good opportunity for society members to socialize, as it also gives us a chance to know more about other society members. Children can also enjoy such events to also display their talent," said Pravin Gawde, a city resident.
And not to forget the patriotic emblems like the clip on flags or small paper flags that sells like hot cakes during such time. A vendor near Thane station was seen doing brisk business selling tri-colour wrist bands, broaches, paper flags, etc.