General : Deepavali Bazaars Remain Preferred Choice Despite Online Competition

Despite the increasing popularity of online shopping, the Deepavali Carnival Bazaar in Seremban continues to attract visitors who prefer to purchase their festive necessities in person. The annual bazaar, held in Jalan Dato Lee Fong Yee (also known as Little India Seremban), offers a variety of items such as traditional clothing, snacks, and home decorations.

Indian traditional clothing trader N. Leena stated that while the prices of traditional clothing have decreased from RM250 to RM300 to around RM150 to RM180, customers still choose to visit the bazaar to examine the fabric and make their selection. Many young people now opt for online shopping, but some still prefer the bazaar to touch, try, and assess the clothing materials firsthand.

Jewellery and prayer necessities trader V. Preeya, who has operated her shop for seven years, noted that physical stores remain the preferred choice for the Indian community, particularly the elderly, even as online sales gain traction. She said that despite competition from online sales, older people continue to shop at the bazaar.

Henna hand artist M. Bvithra, who has 12 years of experience in the field, reported a surge in demand for henna painting services ahead of Deepavali. With prices starting from RM5 to RM8 depending on the design, customers from both the Malay and Indian communities visit her shop. The busiest period is two days before the festival, as customers queue to decorate their hands with henna patterns for the celebration.