Why Deepavali shoppers still make time for the bazaar

Deepavali shoppers continue to prioritize the bazaar experience over online shopping, despite the convenience of digital transactions. Seremban's Deepavali Carnival Bazaar on Jalan Dato Lee Fong Yee, also known as Little India Seremban, attracts traders and customers looking for traditional attire, jewellery, prayer items, snacks, and festive decorations.

Clothing vendor N Leena, 37, emphasizes the value of seeing, touching, and trying on fabrics before making a purchase, as many younger consumers favor online shopping. Leena has observed competitive pricing, with certain garments now costing between RM150 to RM180, down from previous prices of RM250 to RM300. For older shoppers, such as henna artist M Bvithra, 30, the bazaar offers an invaluable opportunity to personalize their celebration.

Bvithra notes a doubling of bookings as the festival approaches, with most customers arriving two days prior to Deepavali to adorn their hands with henna patterns. As 140 traders participate in this 10-day carnival, organizers expect over 30,000 visitors. The bazaar atmosphere, characterized by personal interactions and festive preparations, remains an irreplaceable aspect of Deepavali for many shoppers.