Rallies amid heat trigger scarcity of light cottons in Bengaluru

BENGALURU: High-decibel poll campaigns by political parties and independent candidates in sweltering heat have resulted in a severe scarcity of white and light-coloured clothes, especially shirts and caps, in Bengaluru. This is unlike previous summers when takers for light-coloured cotton clothes were few, say garment traders, adding that the current demand is largely fuelled by poll activities.
Prakash Bhojani, president, Karnataka Hosiery and Garments' Association, said the sun has been harsher this year, deterring people from stepping out in the afternoon. But when it is inevitable, they prefer wearing light-coloured clothes, especially white cotton.
"The demand for cotton clothes, including whites, has gone up. Besides the heat, Ramzan season and polls have also pushed it up in a big way. Garments that are in great demand include T-shirts, regular shirts, kurtas and caps within the price range of Rs 200 to Rs 600 per piece. Besides local consumption, huge consignments are also being sent to the other parts of the state," Bhojani explained.
Another wholesale garments trader from Chickpet explained: "Political parties are our regular customers and often prefer cotton clothes during rallies. But this summer due to the poll season, the orders are only on the upswing. Rallies planned across North Karnataka by all parties will feature special party T-shirts. As candidates' expenditure is strictly monitored, it is largely the parties that are placing orders for these clothes for their workers and volunteers. The only problem is the availability as they may require a few sizes in large numbers and the stocks get over soon. These T-shirts usually cost between Rs 100 and Rs 200 per piece. Also, it normally takes at least 4 to 5 days to supply the garments."
"Campaigning in sweltering heat will be challenging and not many would volunteer to do it. But all our volunteer teams and party workers have been told to keep at least two pairs of cotton clothes, preferably white, so that they can protect us in the extreme temperature. If not for these garments, it will be an ordeal as staying out in the sun can cause itchiness and infections," explained Mohan Kumar, who is part of the campaigning committee of a candidate representing a national party in Central Bengaluru.