Lucknow: Lucknow’s markets thrived with energy on Dhanteras and Diwali, witnessing unprecedented levels of customer traffic as people shopped for the auspicious festival. A broad spectrum of products, from electronics and vehicles to property and decorative items, saw record sales. With total trade reaching an impressive ₹2,380 crore, the markets were abuzz well into the late hours as buyers filled shopping centers, especially in areas like Aminabad, Nazirabad, Hazratganj, Chowk, and many more.
Key Sectors Driving the Festive Boom
Property Market Leads
The property market outperformed others, with transactions worth ₹500 crore, reflecting strong interest in residential and commercial spaces. Over 600 registrations were recorded across sub-registrar offices, including high volumes at Sadar and Sarojini Nagar, driven by the Dhanteras preference for new investments.
Electronics and Mobile Markets
Electronics and mobile stores enjoyed a windfall, with total sales touching ₹425 crore. Mobiles, accessories, and laptops accounted for ₹175 crore alone, with demand notably high at Shriram Tower and other tech hubs across the city. Uttar Pradesh Mobile Association President Neeraj Johar told the media, the crowd persisted well into the night as shoppers took advantage of festive discounts on gadgets.
Automobile Showrooms Emptied
The automobile sector also had a prosperous day, with ₹250 crore in sales. Vehicle showrooms were packed, and 567 vehicles were delivered to customers, with celebrations and photo sessions marking the occasion. Electric vehicles saw a surge, making up a significant part of the sales, and a 20% increase in EV sales was reported this year. Luxurious purchases, such as a BMW XM worth ₹2.65 crore and Audi Q models, added to the festive fervor.
Bullion Market Shines Bright
The bullion market gleamed with ₹200 crore in transactions, where designer jewelry, gold guineas, and silver coins were highly popular. Vinod Maheshwari of the Lucknow Sarafa Association reported strong customer interest in light, investment-focused jewelry, especially among younger buyers. Non-branded silver coins saw such high demand that stores had to restock late into the evening.
Firecrackers Market Adds Sparkle
Anticipating Diwali, the firecracker business experienced early sales with an estimated turnover of ₹55 crore by Dhanteras. This year saw a trend toward eco-friendly options, with light-emitting crackers like drones, peacock crackers, and duck sparklers gaining popularity. The Fireworks Trade Board and dealers ensured that high-quality, pollution-reducing options were readily available to meet this shift in consumer preference.
Traditional Markets and Décor Add Charm
In addition to major purchases, smaller decorative items, flowers, garlands, and other festive materials contributed ₹125 crore in sales. Textile markets also saw brisk business with ₹200 crore, as families shopped for sarees, lehengas, and other readymade garments. The home decor segment, including curtains, cushion covers, and bed linens, was well-received due to the upcoming wedding season, noted by Ashok Motiani, President of the UP Textile Industry Trade Board.
Meanwhile, malls like Phoenix Palassio, Lulu Mall, and Crown Mall attracted large crowds with elaborate decor and activities, including rangoli competitions, giveaways, and themed installations. At Phoenix Palassio, installations inspired by Ashok Vatika and the Ramayana theme allowed shoppers to enjoy a unique, culturally immersive experience.
Pop-up markets and fairs offered unique shopping experiences. The India International Trade Fair at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan showcased a wide array of imported and local handicrafts, drawing crowds eager for Bangladeshi saris, Turkish lamps, Dubai chocolates, and Indian artisanal items. The La Flea Affair at UP Darshan Park provided handmade goods, culinary delights, and live music, creating an inviting festival atmosphere.
Given the surge in market activity, Lucknow police enforced comprehensive security protocols. Police presence was heightened at markets, entertainment venues, and transport hubs. DGP Prashant Kumar implemented special patrolling, ensuring that jewellery and electronics markets, as well as firecracker vendors, were well-guarded.
Anti-social elements are being monitored closely, while fire department officials coordinated with local authorities to manage the sale and storage of firecrackers, with dedicated inspections ensuring safety at manufacturing sites. DGP Prashant Kumar also mandated 24×7 fire safety monitoring and increased visibility of emergency contact numbers to promote community safety.
