Journalism of Courage
Rakshabandhan is going to be one colourful affair as rakhis with flickering lights,miniature photographs and cartoon characters on them flood the markets
Rakhis are not anymore about the yellow threads which Tagore had initiated as a bond of harmony between the Hindus and Muslims prior to Independence. There is more to it than the much celebrated sibling affection. We have started a new range of bracelets this year, says Younis Manya,the owner of Star Bangle Matching Center in Camp. These bracelets are gold or silver plated and Manya charges Rs 100 for each. The motive behind such type of rakhi cum bracelet is that the brothers can keep them for a lifetime and wear it when they feel like, feels Manya. This multi-purpose accessory can be used as a rakhi,during the occasion and as a wrist ornament for any other day.
Dhare also sells Ganpati and Sai Baba rakhis which have the tiny figures of the deities on the bands. A special range of the chord bag rakhis are available in little teddy bags. The switch rakhis just enhance the appearance of the cartoon rakhis, feels Prakash Shroff,owner of Sharda General Stores,Camp. Shroff has an innovative collection of action cartoon rakhis and the car rakhis. While the former is a range of Harry Potter,Superman,Batman,Benten,Hanuman,Mario and Noddy,the latter caters to racing car buffs. The ‘car rakhi’ may be a bit too big for a ten-year-old boy’s wrist but it is unique in itself. It can be used as a toy once the occasion is over. Shroff also sells the light rakhis which is a great attraction among kids. The tiny green and red lights stuck beneath the cartoons,when switched on,create a little ray of red and green.
The complete thalis are also available with a small bag of colourful rice grains,chocolates and kumkum,and are priced at Rs 2. The Bhaiyya Tussi Great Ho collection at Shroff’s store is an assortment of the thalis and the stone-studded rakhis which come in a package for Rs 200.
Personalised rakhis are selling like hot cakes at Red Moments,Fergusson College Road. The store provides two interesting options for them. Customers can have a photo of the brother or a mini album capturing all the sweet memories. These personalised rakhis which are priced at Rs 150 and Rs 200,and can also be used as key chains later.
