NaMo ‘pichkari’, RJD ‘gulal’ a hit among all

PATNA: ‘Pichkaris’ (water guns), bearing pictures of leaders like Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi or RJD chief Lalu Prasad, have flooded city markets. Besides, different coloured ‘gulals’ (powdered colour), which are named after political parties, are a hit among Patnaites.

According to Vinod Kumar, a small vendor near Khetan Market, “Keeping in mind the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, we are selling colours in the name of political parties. For instance, a BJP supporter is buying packets of orange-coloured ‘gulal’ whereas an RJD supporter is looking for green-coloured ‘gulal’.”

Taking a cue from the Indian Air Force’s recent air strikes in Pakistan, shopkeepers are also selling a large number of rifle-shaped water guns with light and sound effects.

Rajat Kumar, a shopkeeper at Churi Market near Nala Road, said, “While the hi-tech water guns are selling like hot cakes, those named after chief minister Nitish Kumar and Lalu are also in demand.”

Ranjit Singh, a vendor on Thakurbari Road, showed this reporter some new water guns called ‘Balakot Surgical Strike Weapons’. “These heavy water guns, which spray colour with force, cost anywhere between Rs 350 and Rs 980,” Singh said.

Besides, ‘Modi water tanks’ with pictures of the PM are flying off the shelves and are available for Rs 650.

Vendor Subodh Kumar, who owns a makeshift shop near Boring Road roundabout, had bought several political water guns from Delhi’s Chandni Chowk Market. Most of them, however, were sold within five days.

“I wish I had purchased some more Holi items as I am left with only two water tanks now. Business was exceptionally good this time,” Kumar said.

Ramji Prasad, who runs a shop in Kadamkuan locality, claimed colourful Modi caps, masks and wigs were also popular among youngsters and kids. There are also Lalu and Nitish masks in the market. Prasad said, “I have sold at least 24 Modi masks in a week. While a mask is priced between Rs 325 and Rs 450, a cap is available for Rs 85.”