This year's Raksha Bandhan celebrations in Udaipur witnessed a notable decline in footfall across the city’s bustling markets. Despite the opening of shops, the usual hustle and bustle was conspicuously absent. The recent knife incident in the city has created an atmosphere of tension, causing many residents to stay away from key shopping areas.

Traditionally, Raksha Bandhan is a time when Udaipur’s markets, particularly Hathipole, Maldas Street, Delhi Gate and Dhan Mandi, come alive with crowds eager to purchase rakhis and gifts for their loved ones. However, this year, these popular markets were noticeably quieter. The usual throngs of people were missing, there were fewer shoppers carefully making their way through the stalls.

Jitesh Kumar, a shopkeeper in the Hathipole area, said that this year, shopkeepers had to cover expenses out of their own pockets due to a significant decrease in customers.

Despite the decline in crowd numbers, the variety and creativity of rakhis available this year were remarkable. Shopkeepers introduced a range of new designs, reflecting evolving trends and customer preferences. Ayodhya-inspired rakhis, featuring small idols of Lord Krishna, were a standout, symbolizing a blend of tradition and innovation. Other popular designs included Chandan rakhis and peacock-themed rakhis, each showcasing intricate craftsmanship.

Lumba rakhis, also known as Bhabhi Rakhis, adorned the stalls with beautiful designs, catering to the tradition of tying rakhis to sisters-in-law. 

From simple thread work to heavily embellished rakhis, the options were abundant, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.

Small vendors and established shopkeepers alike participated in the festive sales, their stalls decorated with vibrant colors and creative displays. However, the expected rush was missing, with many vendors reporting lower sales compared to previous years. The impact of the recent incident was palpable, as the usually packed streets of Hathipole and Maldas Street remained relatively empty.

While the crowds were thinner, the spirit of Raksha Bandhan persisted. Shoppers who did venture out made sure to buy rakhis for their loved ones, and sweet shops were a rare exception to the quiet, bustling with customers eager to purchase traditional treats for the festival.