Women Flock to Barabanki Markets for Karva Chauth Celebrations
Barabankis markets are bustling with women preparing for Karva Chauth, buying attire, jewelry, and henna in anticipation of the festive day.
Barabanki, October 29 (Daily Kiran) : The festival of Karva Chauth, celebrated for the longevity of husbands and a happy marital life, is set to be a grand affair in Barabanki. The local markets are buzzing with activity as women prepare for the occasion. Many are seen purchasing designer sarees and fancy suits, while others are busy buying bangles, jewelry, and beauty products. There is also a noticeable excitement among women getting henna applied, with shopping continuing late into the night.
At the Laiya Mandi in Barabanki, long queues of women waiting to get henna designs on their hands are a common sight. According to henna artists, the crowd has been steady for the past three days, with women arriving from 10 AM until late at night. On average, more than 100 women are getting henna applied each day.
Typically, the cost for henna application ranges from ₹50 to ₹100, but during the festival, prices can increase by two to two-and-a-half times depending on the design. Despite the price hike, enthusiasm among women to get henna remains high.
The bustling markets at Dhanokhar, Nagar Palika Market, and the clock tower area are also filled with activity. Women are shopping for sarees, salwar suits, gold chains, rings, silver anklets, and toe rings. There is a rush at shops selling bangles and other adornments, while stores offering worship materials have seen a surge in demand for items related to Karva Chauth rituals. Shopkeepers are optimistic about strong sales during this festive period.
Local resident Preeti shared that just as the Chhath Puja is eagerly awaited in North India, women also look forward to Karva Chauth. This festival is deeply rooted in faith, love, and family traditions. Women prepare with great enthusiasm, observing a day-long fast without water, followed by evening prayers. They will later view the moon, offer arghya, and break their fast with water from their husbands’ hands.
Another local resident noted that preparations begin days in advance, including decisions on where to apply henna, what clothes to wear, and how to style their hair. Women start early because this festival holds significant importance in North India, similar to the way Chhath is celebrated in Bihar.
