Christmas celebrations get a Premam touch

A ‘Premam’ star at a shop.

It seems like the influence of Premam , the Malayalam blockbuster, which acquired a cult status of sorts on and off the screen, is never far away.

Months after the film completed its run in the theatres, there comes a reminder in the Christmas market. A decorative star modelled along the shape and font used in the promos for the film has become an instant hit in the market. “ Premam stars have emerged a runaway hit just as the film,” says Rajeev, a shopkeeper in Broadway. Another blockbuster Vellimoonga has also emerged an inspiration for those designing stars.

But don’t be under the illusion that it’s just the big screen all the way. Blockbuster serials from the smaller screen have also spawned their ‘star clones.’ It seems like people still haven’t got enough of televisions soap operas like Paraspparam and Chandanamazha that they are now even taking Christmas stars influenced by them.

Stars in the price range of Rs. 80 to Rs. 500 are available in the market. The commercial value of Christmas seems to be rising with each passing year with shopping becoming an integral part of the festivity. From stars, cakes, LED lights, cribs, gifts, Santa masks, the market is getting only bigger. LED lights have many takers. Red and white seems to be fast encroaching on the predominantly green Christmas trees. The streets are still getting the hang of the season as the season is yet to peak.

But shops are already doing better sales, said Kiran, a shopkeeper.