Bengaluru’s streets on Thursday were painted in the tricolours ahead of the 79th Independence Day, with roadside stalls and markets doing brisk business in flags, badges, caps, and themed merchandise as the city geared up for the August 15 celebrations.
The streets of Shivajinagar and K.R. Market had undergone a soft transformation. While the usual chaos of vegetable carts and flower stalls still prevailed, the lanes were predominantly characterised by tricolour hues. Mobile carts carrying flags of all sizes fluttered in the breeze, while street hawkers presented their latest tricolour charms and trinkets, pursuing their customers.
For the street vendors of these historic markets, Independence Day is much more than a celebration: it’s a tradition wrapped in business. “We’ve been running this shop for over 40 years, and it’s the same kind of excitement that you get to see,” said Sadiq, who owns a clothing store along the lanes of K.R. Market.
The merchandise has evolved along with pin-on badges, little flags, and Gandhi topis. People today look for LED-lit wristbands, scrunchies, and phone covers, according to shopkeepers, who see the season as the best for their businesses.
With digitalisation and online stores gaining traction, Kashif, the owner of a t-shirt cart in Shivajinagar, points out: “My brother and I print and sell them on my WhatsApp channel to reach more consumers,” establishing a seamless blend between the old and new.
Amid rising awareness and regulations, eco-friendly items are gaining popularity. Cotton flags stitched in Shivajinagar’s tailoring lanes have started competing with the fast-produced plastic ones.
Published – August 14, 2025 09:47 pm IST
