Demand for candles in different hues in wholesale markets is much more than the earthen lamps made by potters. Pictures by Sanjib Mukherjee

Cuttack, Nov. 4: Candles are threatening to spoil the business of traditional diyas (earthen lamps) that are used to light up homes during Diwali. Market trends here indicate that the demand for candles of different hues in wholesale markets is much more than the earthen lamps made by potters.

“Trends indicate a 10 per cent rise in the sale of candles despite five per cent increase in prices since last year due to rise in cost of wax,” says Bikash Agarwal, a candle trader at the Choudhury Bazaar wholesale market.

“Candle are easy to maintain and, unlike diyas, they don’t require oil for lighting them. People also prefer them because they prove to be cheaper than diyas,” says Mohit Agarwal, another candle wholesaler.

The preference for candles reflects a shift in loyalty of customers. Speaking of this change, Suvenka Das, a customer from Sutahat, says, “We will use candles to decorate our home this time. It is less costly than the earthen lamps that require castor oil, which costs Rs 110 per litre.” “Castor oil prices have gone up by Rs 30 since last Diwali,” adds Sandhyarani Sahu, another customer from Telenga Bazar.

“Candles seem to have made an increased presence in the market this year, which is bound to affect our business. In fact, a 20 to 25 per cent fall in sale of diyas is expected,” says trader Drona Kumar Swain.

However, Avinash Nandi, another diya trader, pins hope on the traditional customer base.

The traditional diyas cost Rs 40 for every 100 pieces (at the retail level 50 paise each). The fancy ones or terracotta variety diyas sell at Rs 80 to Rs 120 for every 100 pieces (at the retail level Rs 1 and 1.50 each). Similarly, candle packets containing 15 to 16 pieces are available for Rs 5 to Rs 40.

Diwali is one of the major festivals celebrated in the silver city. Idols of goddess Kali also come up at 67 puja mandaps across the city. This year, the city police has fixed November 10 for immersion of Kali idols, while prohibiting use of loudspeakers after 10 pm. The police have also prohibited bursting of crackers beyond 10 pm.

“All police stations have been directed to be extra vigilant while mobile patrolling vans and special squads would be pressed into service to ensure strict adherence to laws and regulations,” said A.N. Sinha, deputy commissioner of police (DCP).