New Delhi, Aug. 27 -- Raksha Bandhan gifting is evolving beyond traditional mithai and chocolates, with shoppers increasingly opting for useful, personalised and gender-neutral presents ranging from gadgets and cookware to beauty, wellness and home decor items.
The shift is reflected in rising demand for products that combine functionality with a personal touch. Management professional Anusha Jaiswal, 43, said she was considering a speaker, projector or PlayStation for her tech-savvy brother, while also exploring cookware and appliances as he has recently taken up cooking.
"There is a growing preference for products that are thoughtful, well-designed and built to last, rather than gifts that are purely ceremonial," said Himanshi Tandon, co-founder of kitchenware brand Ember. Around 40 per cent of the company's Ember Concierge gifting requests came from siblings buying for one another, she said.
Electronics are emerging as a popular choice, with XElectron reporting nearly double demand for digital photo frames during the festive season and a 30 per cent rise in portable projectors.
"People aren't just going for the usual gifts anymore; they want something that can actually fit into the receiver's daily life," said Gagan Sharma, managing director of XElectron.
Grooming, beauty and wellness products are also gaining traction. Brands are offering festive hampers and personalised gift boxes, while demand for dry fruits, nutrition products, skincare and wellness items remains strong.
The festive trade is expected to receive a significant boost. According to estimates by the Confederation of All India Traders, Raksha Bandhan-related business could cross Rs 30,000 crore nationally, with Delhi alone expected to account for around Rs 4,000 crore.
Retailers are reporting increased demand across price segments. MR. DIY said its footfall had risen 40-50 per cent, with shoppers purchasing home decor, perfumes, cosmetics and other products.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.