Diwali boosts hope in Delhi's markets, but spending caution may be a damper

Crowds return ahead of festive season, but caution in spending hints that sales may remain sluggish

In normal times, Delhi’s popular markets are a kaleidoscope of milling crowds and busy vendors. With their buzzing lanes and stalls enticing buyers to test their haggling skills, the shopping hubs await the festive season for the best sales.

In a post-Covid world, if you thought this Diwali would be a washout, think again.

The chaotic lanes of the Sarojini Nagar market are alive with the ceaseless cries of vendors and besieged buyers. It would seem what transpired in the past seven months didn’t touch the market. A substantial crowd with face masks hanging loose, oblivious to social distancing norms