New Delhi: This time, Diwali is all set to be celebrated with the spirit of ‘Swadeshi’ where the people will use everything – from diyas to crackers – which has been made in our own country. Traders, who deal in festival based items, say that they have decided not to purchase or sell any Chinese items. In view of India-China tension along the line of actual control (LAC), even the people are not showing much interest in Chinese items. The demand for Chinese lights has dwindled. People are opting for earthen diyas, which is not only giving a boost to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign but is also creating more job opportunities for the locals.
If we talk about the coronavirus, which has gripped the whole world, people are in a state of panic. As a result, imported goods from China have become an issue of debate. These goods are to be sold during the festival season. The artisans, which make earthen and clay toys along with traders have made up their minds to teach China a lesson in their own fashion. Those who make diyas say that the demand has doubled. The electric machines for making diyas have further encouraged artisans. They are manufacturing more diyas at the consumption of much less time.
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At the same time, if we talk about the firecracker traders of the capital, they are also ready to give a befitting reply to China. They have decided to only sell crackers made in India this time. Cracker businessmen say that China has to be taught a lesson. During every Diwali, there used to be a huge sale of Chinese firecrackers and lights in the NCR, but this time traders have made it clear that they will not sell firecrackers and other things imported from China.
Others also advised to boycott Chinese goods
They said that other traders are also being persuaded not to sell any Chinese goods. A businessman said that he will sacrifice everything but will not allow any goods of China to be sold in Ghaziabad city. Another cracker merchant said that China is a traitor and the traitors will not be allowed to sell their goods in our country. A businessman also said that the old Chinese materials lying with them will be flown in water, but will not sell them. Currently, traders are waiting for licenses from the administration to sell the crackers.
Demand for diyas has doubled
Mohan, a potter, said that this time after the coronavirus hit us, there was a decrease in demand, but when the government banned Chinese applications, people are seen to be avoiding shopping for Chinese goods. With this, the demand for clay diyas has doubled. Last year a lot of clay diyas were left unsold but this time people are already placing orders for clay diyas.
‘Thought to stop doing pottery last year’
Pappu, a potter from Kakadeo area, says that he was planning to stop his traditional work after a lot of diyas were left unsold last year. It was a big financial loss to me. I thought that I should stop this work. But this year, there is hope of making more profits. He says that this time his Diwali will also be a happy one. Therefore, we are also training our children to do the needful. The skill will help them in the future as well.
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Electric machine has made things better
According to Mohan, electric machines have made the task much easier and the output has also increased. These machines have been provided by the government. Earlier they used traditional equipment to make earthen pots. Their income has also gone up.
Mobile phone traders also up in arms
Mobile phone traders in Ghaziabad have also made it clear that they are not buying or selling Chinese goods. Earlier they had just sold the old stock. They have decided to promote Indian mobile phone manufacturers this Diwali for which they are giving offers as well. They say that this is the only way to defeat China in the market.
