NEW DELHI: With just two days to go for Diwali, the city’s major shopping hubs including Lajpat Nagar, Karol Bagh and Sarojini Nagar are witnessing an overwhelming rush as festive crowds return in full force. Glittering lights, decorated stalls and the unmistakable buzz of shoppers have brought the capital’s festive spirit back to life.
From ethnic wear and jewellery to home decor, electronics, and sweets, every corner of these markets is bustling with last-minute shoppers. At Lajpat Nagar’s Central Market, shops are lit up with fairy lights and vibrant lanterns.
Stalls display party wear suits, potlis and sandals, while vendors loudly advertise festive discounts. Shoppers, however, face a tough time navigating the tightly packed lanes, with parking becoming nearly impossible even before noon.
Traffic congestion remains a significant challenge. Vehicles inch forward amid overflowing footfall, with pedestrians spilling onto roads. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has deployed additional staff to manage the crowd, especially during peak evening hours. “We barricade two entrances to control the rush, but the footfall is overwhelming,” said a civic official at Lajpat Nagar.
Karol Bagh’s Ajmal Khan Road and Gaffar Market have turned into vibrant corridors of lights and music. Stores are drawing huge crowds looking for ethnic wear, gifting items and electronics. “Sales are strong this year, but the space is too cramped. Still, customers keep coming from morning till late night,” said Rajeev Sharma, a local trader.
Sarojini Nagar, popular for affordable fashion, remains the busiest. The flea market is jam-packed, with shoppers bargaining over prices and vendors waving fresh stock from stools. Winter clothing, imitation jewellery, handbags and sarees are in high demand. Despite police patrols, barricades and strict security checks at market entrances, managing the crowd remains difficult. Long queues begin right from metro exit gates. Yet, the festive cheer outweighs the inconvenience for many. Families, couples and friends are seen enjoying snacks, clicking selfies and soaking in the joyous Diwali vibe.
“The lights, the crowd, the sound—it finally feels like Diwali again,” said Priya Verma, a shopper in Karol Bagh.