Lucknow's Opulent Holi Traditions: Silver Pichkaris and Golden Gujiyas Steal the Spotlight

As Holi approaches, a Lucknow jeweller revives the tradition of gifting silver Pichkaris, with prices ranging up to Rs 1 lakh. Meanwhile, a Gonda sweet shop unveils a lavish 'Golden Gujiya' priced at Rs 50,000 per kilogram, featuring a luxurious 24-carat gold layer.

In the heart of Lucknow, a jewellery shop is making waves by offering a unique twist on a time-honored Holi tradition. The shop, spearheaded by jeweller Adesh Kumar Jain, is selling exquisite silver Pichkaris, intricately designed and priced between Rs 8,000 and Rs 1 lakh. This year, Jain introduced meenakari work and stone inlays, a first for these traditional water guns, designed as gifts among newlywed families during Holi.

Sales have soared, with Jain reporting over 1,000 Pichkaris sold in Lucknow alone. The shop's wholesale business model further amplifies its reach, as many local retailers snap up the Pichkaris to offer to their own customers. Jain anticipates this gifting tradition could see even more popularity in years to come, as Holi enthusiasts seek these unique items.

Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda, a sweet shop is offering an opulent treat for the festival: the 'Golden Gujiya.' Priced at a staggering Rs 50,000 per kilogram, each piece of this gujiya features a 24-carat gold layer with premium dry fruit filling. Shop manager Shivakant Chaturvedi highlights this exclusive creation as a luxurious take on the traditional sweet dumpling, aiming to add sparkle to the festivities.