Deepavali, the festival of lights is around the corner, and the sale of traditional lights and clay lamps has increased across the city. Sellers can be seen setting up makeshift shops in various places.
All varieties of lamps are being sold, mainly at Station Road. While lamps are being sold at day time, the traditional ‘Akash Butti’, the decorative lights made of plastic, wood or paper are selling at night. The lamps are priced between ₹100 and ₹700 based on their size and design.
However, many shopkeepers say that business is not as fast as it was last year. They attribute the slump to the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) which has adversely impacted their revenue.
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“Many sellers and suppliers are still confused on the quantum of tax they have to pay under GST. This is also creating confusion among buyers that the cost may have increased owing to GST. Perhaps, this is why people are not spending money like they did last year,” A.K. Dalawai, a shopkeeper said.
Similar is the cry of other business establishments including those dealing in garments and electronics.
Dayananda Nikam, one of the big saree sellers if the city, said they are witnessing a slump this year. “Normally, garment shop owners earn over 60% of their total annual profit during Deepavali. We used to pay extra money to our salespersons during the festival for staying back late, but this year, we have no such situation,” Mr. Nikam said.
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