Thumdi marks Diwali countdown

What Christmas trees are to Christians, Khandil and Thumdi, decorative items are to the Marwari and Gujarati community. The period between Dasara and Diwali is considered good to spruce up homes and buy decorative items. Neelam Dewra, a housewife says, “It is a tradition to deck up homes with Khandil and Thumdi. They not only add colour but also lift the spirit.”

The shops in the Old City at Gulzar Houz make a killing during the festival season. R P Agarwal, a trader says, “There is a sizable Marwari and Gujarati community in the city that makes sure they buy these decorative items.”

The tradition of decorating homes with Thumdi dates back to more than 50 years. In the past, the items were made with paper but over the years, velvet and other material is used. The decorative items range from Rs 100 to Rs 10,000 and come in various shapes and sizes.

Rakesh Tayal, a resident of Begumpet says, “Items that we buy during the year and which are not used are brought out during Diwali. It is considered auspicious to start using new goods for the festival.”