Noddy, Harry Potter, Superman and Ben 10 are vying to be on the wrist of every brother this year. These seem to be the latest in rakhi fashion as Raksha Bandhan rolls around, in Chennai. The variety of rakhis available this year is mind-boggling, as a walk down Sowcarpet’s crowded streets will show. With prices starting as low as Rs 5 and going up to Rs 450, there is a model for every budget. The simple red and gold thread ones and those made of wool are on the lower end of the range. Silver rakhis encrusted with crystals and coloured stones are a bit more expensive, at Rs 350 and above, depending on the design. For the kids, cartoon characters like Noddy and Ben 10 are favourites. My Friend Ganesha, Harry Potter, Superman and Batman designs are also available.
Kishan, who runs an exclusive rakhi shop at Mint Street, says that each year the designs are new. “I bring in the chumki work designs from Rajasthan, where they are traditionally made. The fancy design ones are from Kolkata,” he says. He also says that the crystals on thread designs are the favourites this year, as they are not very expensive (Rs 30 to Rs 80 each), but look great.
“There are still some who favour the traditional shiny gold design, with a swastik or Lord Ganesha symbol in the centre, to signify blessings. These are around Rs 20 to Rs 60 a pair,” says Kishan, adding that the number of customers is increasing as the day has arrived. For the DIY type of girls, shops also provide material for handmade rakhis. This includes various types of threads, silks, stones and other materials for unique designs.
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