MORE shoppers are expected to throng the Little India this weekend, the final weekend before the Deepavali celebration begins on Oct 31.
As always, last-minute shopping adds a sense of excitement to the preparations, making the festival atmosphere all the more vibrant.
N. Ravi Kaaneshan, a trader selling Deepavali snacks such as murukku, ‘achi muruku’ (sweet muruku), ‘kai muruku’ (hand-twisted, spiral muruku), and Indian sweets, anticipates a larger crowd in the coming days.
“The number of shoppers is a bit low at the moment, likely because people are waiting for payday. From the 25th onwards, we expect more crowds to come,” Ravi explained.
“We still have customers visiting from other states like Perak and Kedah, though the numbers have decreased. This might be due to the Deepavali Carnivals held in their respective states, which are more convenient for them.
“However, we are confident that the crowd will swell this weekend, as it’s the one right before Deepavali,” he added.
At Ravi’s stall, shoppers can find popular Indian sweets such as ‘laddu,’ ‘palkova,’ ‘athirasam,’ ‘jilebi,’ and many more.
Another trader, Kuganeswaran Sinnappaen, shared his hopes for a bustling weekend, wishing shoppers a joyful time as they indulge in their favourite festive treats.
“Last weekend was good for business, and we expect an even larger number of customers this weekend,” Kuganeswaran said.
“We’re selling 14 types of Deepavali cookies and a variety of other snacks, including muruku and ‘achi muruku.’ Some of the cookies are already sold out.
“I hope everyone enjoys their favourite snacks with their loved ones this Deepavali,” he added.
While speaking with Kuganeswaran, shopper Vimli Murugiah expressed her excitement about the festive season.
“We can see a great crowd at night, especially on weekends. My preparations are still a bit slow since there’s still time,” Vimli said with a warm smile, adding a wish for the Hindu community to have a joyous Deepavali.
Meanwhile, a tourist from Durban, South Africa, Viola Sherrif, was soaking in the festive atmosphere at Little India.
“I come from a place with a large Indian community, where Deepavali is celebrated with fireworks everywhere, as it is a festival of lights.
“I’m a bit sad to miss out on the celebrations here since I’ll be leaving for Japan on Sunday. But it’s still exciting to visit the Indian streets here,” she shared.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis