Asansol: As the festival of Rakhi Bandhan approaches, the markets of West Bengal's industrial city Asansol are getting adorned with colorful and attractive rakhis. From children to youth and women, various new designs of rakhis have arrived in the market. However, amidst the variety of rakhis this time, some particular rakhis are catching people's special attention, where alongside the joy of the festival, the current political situation and various contemporary issues are becoming prominent. In the Asansol market, 'Modi rakhis' featuring pictures and symbols of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the much-discussed 'cockroach print' rakhis have become the main attraction for buyers.
According to local shopkeepers and traders, there is no shortage of design and variety in rakhis this year. Traditional and conventional rakhis are certainly there, alongside cartoon characters, shiny beads, light-up rakhis, and various innovative theme rakhis available for children in the market. However, superseding everything else, a distinct enthusiasm and curiosity are being noticed among buyers regarding 'Modi rakhis' and 'cockroach print' rakhis. Especially politically conscious people and a section of the younger generation are showing more interest in purchasing these special rakhis.
According to local vendors, during social festivals like Rakhi Bandhan, buyers often look for things that are a bit different and eye-catching compared to regular designs. Keeping that demand in mind, such products have arrived in the market. When rakhis associated with political figures, popular symbols, and contemporary phrases enter the market, they quickly catch people's attention. Several buyers in Asansol stated that this kind of political touch in the festive market is nothing new. Even before this, rakhis featuring pictures of various leaders and party symbols during different political situations had received a very good response in the market.
However, in the current political atmosphere, discussion about the 'cockroach print' rakhi is at its peak in the market. According to a section of political circles, given the state's current political context, such symbolic designs are on everyone's lips and have carved out a place for themselves in the festive market as well. Some are viewing this as a joke connected to the current political situation, while many are simply buying the rakhi as an attractive and fun design. On the other hand, traders believe that Narendra Modi's popularity and the interest of his followers are the main driving forces behind the 'Modi rakhi'.
Opinions of ordinary people who came to buy rakhis in the Asansol market suggest that the festive market has always been a living document of society and times. Sometimes celebrities, sometimes silver screen stars, or sometimes cartoon characters become part of rakhi designs; and currently, political figures and symbols have also taken a permanent place in that list. This novel picture of the market proves that festivals are not limited within religious or social boundaries, but rather blend with people's daily thoughts and political discussions.
Of course, the final picture of the commercial success and actual buyer trend of these special rakhis will become clear only after the Rakhi Bandhan festival is over. But there is no disagreement in any circle that on the eve of the festival, this collection of innovative rakhis in the Asansol market has added a new dimension to political debates over a cup of tea alongside shopping. All in all, this year's Rakhi Bandhan festival market in Asansol is not only celebrating the bond of love between brothers and sisters, but has also become a perfect and striking reflection of Bengal's changing and dynamic socio-political situation. From the alley shops of Asansol to large department stores—everywhere, these two distinct-flavored rakhis are currently at the center of discussion. Businessmen are also quite optimistic about this market trend, as such innovative products help retain customers in shops for longer periods and increase sales. As a result, during these festive days, the market of Asansol has become bustling and vibrant.
