Bhubaneswar, June 13: As the vibrant Raja festival knocks at the door, the iconic Market Building in Bhubaneswar has transformed into a bustling shopping paradise, teeming with enthusiastic buyers, particularly young women and girls, who are revelling in the spirit of celebration.
From colourful dresses to dangling jhumkas, fashionable sandals to fragrant cosmetics, the Raja shopping spree has taken full swing. The three-day festival, which celebrates femininity and the arrival of monsoon, is incomplete without the indulgence in new attire and accessories and the Market Building is the city’s top destination.
“I came with my friends from Sailashree Vihar. Raja is all about fun, swings, new dresses and ‘Poda Pitha’. This time I bought a pink frock-style kurti with matching earrings,” said Nikita Sahu, a college student, her face glowing with excitement.
Shops overflow with Raja spirit
Traders at the Market Building are witnessing a sharp rise in footfall. Many shops have decorated their entrances with colourful Raja banners and are offering exciting discounts to attract the festival crowd. The ready-made garment shops are the main hotspots, followed closely by cosmetic and footwear stalls.
“This season is always big for us. From ethnic wear to western fusion everything is in demand. We’ve stocked a variety of pastel shades and floral prints which are selling like hotcakes,” shared Rajesh, owner of a garment store.
Footwear stalls are no less crowded. Glittery sandals, heels, and traditional juttis are flying off the shelves. Vendors have even brought in limited-edition ‘Raja Collection’ ranges.
“Girls want to look their best for Raja. Most of my customers are asking for rose-gold and silver-toned sandals this year,” said Kiran Behera, a local footwear vendor.
Cosmetics and accessories add more shine
Cosmetic stalls, too, are witnessing a surge. Bright nail paints, lip tints, mehendi cones and bangles are some of the top picks. Temporary tattoo stalls and floral hairbands are drawing a huge crowd of teenagers.
“I bought matching bangles and hair accessories for all three Raja days. It’s the only time of the year when we pamper ourselves endlessly,” giggled Pragya Nayak.
Traffic woes and safety concerns
While the market is wrapped in a festive mood, traffic congestion and lack of parking space are emerging as major challenges. Authorities have deployed additional traffic personnel to manage the situation.
“We’ve increased patrolling in the area to avoid crowd mismanagement and pickpocketing incidents,” informed a traffic officer stationed near Master Canteen.
A celebration beyond shopping
Beyond the rush of purchases, Raja is a celebration of rest, renewal, and joy. It’s a time when women symbolically take a break, celebrate their womanhood, and enjoy the first showers of the monsoon with swings, songs, and special delicacies.
As the festival approaches, Market Building stands as a testimony to Odisha’s unique culture where tradition meets modern festivity and every corner hums the tune of Raja.
