Earthen Lamps Trend In Sambalpur Thanks To GM University Students

Sambalpur: China-made lights which had taken over the clay lamp business in the last few years, are not so much in demand this time. It’s all because of a hashtag #PottersKiDiwali that’s trending on social media, encouraging people to buy locally made earthen lamps instead of imported electric lights.

Students here, particularly those of GM University, have started this drive by putting up posters across the town highlighting the benefits of clay diyas.

People on social media are urging buyers not to bargain with earthen lamp sellers who are often poor people with very low margins.

Local sellers, too, are reportedly saying that sales are better despite rains. Some have also mentioned that there’s less bargaining from customers this time.

The PHED Ground, however, is slushy after the continuous rains and this has affected cracker sales. As many as 40 out of 100 vendors have closed their outlets on the ground due to lack of sales.