Shoppes picking out a garland at one of the stalls. - Photo: Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR: Little India in Brickfields remains a popular spot for people to purchase fresh items and festive supplies at discounts of up to 50% in preparation for the Deepavali celebration on Thursday (Oct 31).
A survey by Bernama found that shoppers began arriving as early as 8am Wednesday (Oct 30), despite businesses opening only at 10am.
Pavitthra Kandiah, 35, said it was normal for her to do last-minute shopping, especially for flowers and fruits, to ensure they were fresh on the day of the celebration.
"Every year, I come here for last-minute shopping, especially for flowers, which we use for the prayer ceremony tonight and tomorrow morning.
"The flowers wither if we get them early. Even when everything has been bought, we still go out for last-minute shopping because many goods are sold at discounted prices, some up to 50%," she explained.
For Rupiha Ragoowathy, 31, the excitement of preparing for Deepavali at Little India in Brickfields was worth the trip from Klang.
"We arrived at Little India at 8.30am. The shops hadn't even opened yet, but there were already many people. We came early to avoid the large crowd, making shopping easier, and also for parking, which will be easier to get," she said.
Meanwhile, Kumar, 37, mentioned he came to shop for Deepavali clothing, home decorations and fireworks.
"We love to do last-minute shopping here because there are more choices as traders bring out all their stock and sell them at lower prices to clear them.
"Besides, I also want to get into the Deepavali mood," said Kumar, who plans to return to his hometown in Johor on Wednesday night.
Raj Kumar, 40, said he had to take some time off work to get fresh items for tomorrow's celebration.
"I went to the office and started work a little early today to ensure I could come here for my Deepavali shopping for house decorations, fresh food, fruits and vegetables," he said.
Meanwhile, a clothing store trader, known only as Kimed, 24, said he was offering discounts of up to 50% on various items, including women's and men's clothing such as lehengas and Punjabi suits, as well as prayer paraphernalia and home decoration ornaments.
"We have regular customers who come for last-minute discounts. We also offer discounts up to 50% on LED decorative lights and between 20% and 30% on festive clothing and flowers," he stated. – Bernama
