Ram Navami: Flags, toy arrows, puja items drive biz boom in Central Kolkata but traders keep a wary eye on D-day
Times of India | 6 April 2025
1234 Kolkata: Ram Navami gained significant prominence in Kolkata this year, making its presence felt across streets, political discussions, and even markets.
The festival, which was traditionally celebrated only in a few pockets on the outskirts of Kolkata until a few years ago, emerged as a commercial phenomenon this time, with markets from Burrabazar to Janbazar selling saffron buntings, flags, posters, cut-outs of deities, and items for puja.
Security was beefed up in many parts of the city, with police patrolling major market areas to tackle any situation. According to retailers, sociologists, and those planning processions on Sunday, the charged political narrative, cultural shift, and demographic changes, particularly in the heart of the city, led to a business boom around Ram Navami.
From having a small mention on Kolkata's festive calendar, Ram Navami has shot to prominence in barely a couple of years. Markets that traditionally catered to Poila Baisakh and Durga Puja shoppers are now also stocking saffron buntings, Ram-themed T-shirts, saffron flags, and toy bows and arrows. "Until a few years ago, we did not even stock up some of the items we are selling in bulk today. We supplied bulk orders to various clubs, political entities, and even market committees," said Amit Lohia, a trader on SN Banerjee Road selling Ram Navami paraphernalia.
According to sociologists, the business boom around Ram isn't happening in a vacuum and reflects deeper undercurrents in Kolkata's evolving social fabric. "Religious festivals have always held commercial value in India. The rise of Ram Navami celebrations in Kolkata is a product of political influence, change in cultural identities, and demographic changes in certain pockets of the city," said Partha Roy, a city-based sociologist. With surging sales and swelling crowds, Kolkata's shop owners are hopeful that the festival will be both profitable and peaceful. "We are also keeping our fingers crossed that things remain calm. The last thing we want is any trouble. It will not be good for business," said Debasish Ghosh, a shop owner selling Ram Navami merchandise in Chetla.
Many vendors across the city echoed Amit's sentiment. "We don't care about the politics. My shop generates livelihoods for several families, and I don't want any trouble," said Santosh Singh, a trader on Grant Lane near Chandni Market. "Let the processions happen. Let people celebrate. But no violence," he added.