As Holi approaches, the bullion market in Lucknow is abuzz with festive spirit, offering silver and gold-plated ‘pichkaris’ (water guns) and intricately-crafted silver buckets that are attracting enthusiastic buyers. These ornate items, blending tradition with luxury, have become the focal point of festive shopping in the city.
Jewellers in Lucknow are presenting specially-designed silver water guns adorned with gemstones, accompanied by matching silver buckets. These exquisite pieces are in high demand, especially among families celebrating the first Holi of newlyweds. The act of gifting silver buckets and pichkaris to newly married couples is considered auspicious, symbolizing prosperity and joy.
Bullion trader Amrit Jain mentioned that this year, the market has broadened its festive range. In addition to silver water guns and buckets, they have introduced silver laddus, which many devotees are purchasing to offer to Laddu Gopal during Holi celebrations. The prices of these luxury pichkaris and buckets vary from Rs 10,000 to Rs 1 lakh, depending on design and craftsmanship, with some customers opting for customized orders.
Traders highlight the tradition of sending silver pichkaris, sweets, colors, and gulal as gifts to fiancées during Holi. Married couples, especially those celebrating their first Holi post-marriage, exhibit great enthusiasm for playing with silver pichkaris. The seasonal business revolving around silver Holi items is estimated to be worth crores of rupees annually.
Holi, known as the ‘Festival of Colours’ and considered the second major Hindu festival after Diwali, signifies the onset of spring and represents the triumph of good over evil. The festivities commence with Holika Dahan, also called Chhoti Holi or Jalawali Holi, where bonfires are lit to commemorate the legend of Prahlad and Holika. The subsequent day, known as Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi, involves the playful application of dry gulal and water colors.
According to Drik Panchang’s calculations, Holika Dahan will be observed on Monday during the auspicious Pradosh Kaal in the evening. While the Purnima Tithi starts on the evening of March 2 and extends until March 3, rituals are to be performed during Pradosh Kaal while avoiding Bhadra. Based on these traditional guidelines, March 2 has been identified as the most suitable day for igniting the ceremonial bonfire.
