With Raksha Bandhan approaching, city stalls are all stacked and decorated with attractive designs and styles of rakhis. While some are sticking to the traditional stone and thread designs, the others are going all out experimenting with favourite cartoon characters, superhero miniatures, silver and watch shapes. However, what stands out this year in the market are the edible and eco-friendly rakhis.
Rusheel Dadu, owner, Dadu’s Sweet Emporio, Baner wanted to give people something to remember this Raksha Bandhan as tying the thread and losing it is an every year phenomenon. Rusheel said, “Starting this occasion with something sweet and bringing a smile on everyone’s faces is what we were aiming at. No rakhi is complete without indulging in mithai. As per tradition, after tying the rakhi the girl gives sweets to her brother. So, we thought of innovating the concept to make the rakhi only edible.”
Edible rakhis at Dadu’s Sweet Emporio are made with dried fig, cashew nuts, almond, pistachio, and dates. The edible rakhis are made round and in the form of actual rakhis to keep the Raksha Bandhan sentiments intact. They are priced between Rs 50-Rs 100 depending on the rakhi that is chosen and the shelf life of this rakhi is four days.
While edible rakhis are being picked up by the youth and those with a sweet tooth, the environment conscious are opting for paper quilling and eco-friendly rakhis. Devendra Tulshibaugwale, owner, eco-friendly rakhi centre, Kothrud said, “Paper quilling has gained popularity for its unique designs and quality. Also, with prior order you can customise a special rakhi for your sibling. People are becoming aware of the ill-effects of plastic and hence are approaching the green way.” These eco-friendly rakhis start from Rs 10 onward.
{{/usCountry}}While edible rakhis are being picked up by the youth and those with a sweet tooth, the environment conscious are opting for paper quilling and eco-friendly rakhis. Devendra Tulshibaugwale, owner, eco-friendly rakhi centre, Kothrud said, “Paper quilling has gained popularity for its unique designs and quality. Also, with prior order you can customise a special rakhi for your sibling. People are becoming aware of the ill-effects of plastic and hence are approaching the green way.” These eco-friendly rakhis start from Rs 10 onward.
{{/usCountry}}Rajesh Jadiya, owner, Hira Moti Rakhi, Ganesh Pethe said that he has seen people make a traditional shift in their choices. Jadiya said, “I have customers asking me for traditional stone and string ones. Then there is still a section that opts for cartoon characters and plastic ones. However, they are the kids. Rakhis range from Rs 84/ dozen and can go up to Rs 624/dozen too.”
Gold/diamond and silver rakhis
The trend to buy gold and silver rakhis has increased. We offer a variety of designs which are light on pocket and of multiple use. Diamond and gold rakhis can be used as pendants later. Use of enamel work, colour stones, Bengali work and also temple motifs are popular,” said Saurabh Gadgil, CMD, PNG Jewellers. The silver bracelets/rakhis range from Rs 150 onwards. The gold and diamond ones can be customised as per design, size and weight.