Decorated candles on display at the handicraft mela at Aambagan. Picture by Srinivas

Jamshedpur, Jan. 18: A stall at the handicraft fair presented a colourful solution for frequent power cuts.

Priced at Rs 50 one could get a packet of candles, which could burn continuously for 18 hours. Moreover, it does not contain wax and needs only water and two-spoonfuls of oil to burn.

Mahesh Singh, in-charge of the stall, said these candles could also be prepared at home. “A packet contains hundred cotton battis, a colour bottle, and plastic flowers,” he added.

One could personalise their candles by adding colours to the water, which looks best when kept in transparent containers.

Singh said: “We had a good business in Madhya Pradesh, where they would sell upto 60 candles on a daily basis. People appreciated it because it was environment-friendly, as it does not emit smoke. And transparent glassed candles have a cosy and chic effect.”

He added that his candles were a hit in Diwali as it burnt for a long duration, that too, at an economic price.

A stall owner, on the condition of anonymity, said the candles were manufactured in Mumbai. He also said the visitors at the Aambagan fair were not enthusiastic about the product.

“Buyers are trying to bargain too heavily. We had also done good business in Calcutta but here, six days have passed and the business has not really picked up. We pay Rs 1,000 as stall rent everyday. We hope to do better business in the coming days ” said Singh.

Reena Mahajan, a buyer, said the product was economical and environment friendly. “I have purchased two packets. Power cuts are major problem in my area. I use kerosene oil in lamps, which is quite costly. These candles are the best and prettiest solution,” she said.