Water guns with Modi’s pictures hit markets

Our Correspondent
Jalandhar, March 19

With just two days to go for the festival of colours, city markets are decked up with myriad colours and water guns of various shapes and sizes. However, what’s catching everyone’s fancy is the Prime Minister Narendra Modi inspired water guns that are available for Rs 3 to Rs 300.

“Though we have sold over 100 water guns carrying Modi’s pictures since yesterday, the demand for these is neutral. These were manufactured and supplied from New Delhi,” said a seller at Attari Bazaar, adding that Chinese colour crackers and organic dry colours were more popular among residents and were being sold like hotcakes.

Another trader Nitin from Central Town Market said: “We have new items available with us from water guns of every design and shape to organic colours that are not hazardous to skin. Water guns having motor-pumps installed within are available for Rs 200 to Rs 500 and are being liked by children. These are mostly medium in size, handy and inexpensive, so parents mostly go for these.”

He added that colour capsules, colouring sprays, colour crackers among other items had been purchased in bulk by those who had been organising Holi bashes and pool parties. The cost of the spray colours starts from Rs 20 and goes up to Rs 100 while capsules and crackers were between Rs 100 to Rs 150.

Priyal Mahajan, a resident of Model Town, said: “The Holi celebrations are in full swing in markets. I am surprised at these new items of Holi such as colour crackers and capsules. There is a need to check the amount of chemicals used in such colour capsules, as they can be hazardous to skin.”

She said the authorities concerned should check items that were available and if they had any side effects on usage.

City-based skin specialist Dr Smitha said: “One should apply oil or moisturiser on the skin before playing Holi as it prevents colours from coming in direct contact with the skin. If anyone feels burning sensation or irritation on skin due to colours, he/she is advised to take shower as soon as possible.” People should make use of dry organic colours rather than wet hard colours, she added.

Traditional Holi sweet gujia in demand

As the festival of Holi draws near, sweet shops in the city are witnessing a heavy footfall.

“Gujia, the traditional Holi sweet, is in demand. People are buying gujia in large quantity for themselves as well as their children or relatives living abroad,” said a sweet shop owner, Satish.

He said: “We have special packings of gujia with other low-calorie sweets that could be easily sent to any place within one week.”

Expert advice

City-based skin specialist Dr Smitha said: “One should apply oil or moisturiser on the skin before playing Holi as it prevents colours from coming in direct contact with the skin. If anyone feels burning sensation or irritation on skin due to colours, he/she is advised to take shower as soon as possible.” People should make use of dry organic colours rather than wet hard colours, she added.