Patna has transformed into a landscape of vibrant stalls and early celebrations as the city prepares for Holi. Outside coaching centres, students have already begun dousing one another in colour, marking an unofficial start to the festivities. Every corner of the city is now lined with vendors selling abir, gulaal, neon hair wigs and water guns, while shops are witnessing a surge in women purchasing white attire and glass bangles. From crowded marketplaces to student hubs, the city is fully immersed in the build-up to the festival of colours.
For the city’s large student population, the celebrations cannot wait for the official holiday. “Most of us are leaving for our hometowns tomorrow to be with our families, so Holi starts early for us here in the hostels,” said Aman Raj, an engineering aspirant celebrating outside a coaching centre on Boring Road.
“We want to celebrate with our friends and teachers before we head back home,” he added. Local markets are witnessing heavy footfall as residents stock up on festive essentials. Roshan Kumar, a shopkeeper at Boring Road Chauraha who sources his stock from Kolkata, said, “The things that sell the most are colourful smoke and gulal. ” Moreover, “The smoke guns and cylinders range from Rs 200 up to Rs 1500, depending on the size and the variety of colours available in one,” he added.
Novelty items continue to draw strong interest among the youth. Another seller, Sunny Prasad, pointed out the enduring popularity of festive headgear. “The Malinga wigs sell like hotcakes every year; they come for Rs 200,” said Prasad. “All my stock comes from Delhi, so once they sell out, I cannot get any more, even after requests. I am waiting for Sunday as I am sure the shop will be almost empty by evening,” he added.
Fashion trends are also influencing sales at Mauryalok Complex, where traditional aesthetics blend with contemporary styles. Shayan Khan, a seller at the complex, highlighted the demand for specific accessories. “Braided multicoloured glass bangles are trending right now,” said Khan. “We get them from Jaipur, and a pair comes for Rs 200. A lot of women have been buying them on the days leading up to Holi,” he added.
As the weekend approaches, the atmosphere in Patna remains charged with anticipation, with the city’s streets already painted in the first hues of the festival.
