Ranchi: As civic poll counting gathered pace on Friday, flower vendors and sweet shops across Ranchi reported brisk business, with supporters thronging markets in anticipation of favourable results.From Lalpur to Upper Bazar, Kutchery Chowk and Doranda, garlands made of marigold flowers, rose bouquets and decorative garlands were piled at roadside stalls. Vendors said demand began rising early in the morning as counting trends started trickling in from centres.
“Usually, sales peak after results are declared. But today, people started buying garlands from 8 am,” said Raju Sahu, a flower seller near Albert Ekka Chowk.“Supporters don’t want to take chances. They are keeping everything ready to welcome their candidates,” he said, adding that sales already picked up during the political campaigning period.“Ever since rallies and roadshows began, our business was good. Marigold garlands are in highest demand and are being sold at Rs 50 per garland,” he said.Sweet shops, too, witnessed a surge in orders for laddoos, rasgullas and kaju katli. Many supporters placed advance bookings to avoid the last-minute rush.“We prepared extra stock. Since morning, party workers bought sweets in bulk, like 10 kg. Some are even asking us to keep cartons reserved until final confirmation,” said Neha Gupta, who runs a sweet shop in Morabadi.Outside the counting centre at Transport Nagar, supporters were seen waiting with packets of sweets and gulal in hand, watching live updates on their phones.“We are confident about our candidate’s victory. The moment the final announcement comes, we will celebrate,” said Amit Kumar, a ward supporter.As official trends continue to unfold, the city’s markets are already gearing up for celebratory scenes.
