Raksha Bandhan 2026: Rakhi trade estimated at Rs 25,000 crore, Delhi likely to see Rs 4,000 crore business
Raksha Bandhan shopping has picked up across markets in Delhi and other parts of India, with the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) estimating that nationwide rakhi trade could reach nearly Rs 25,000 crore this year. Delhi is likely to account for around Rs 4,000 crore, according to the traders' body.
CAIT said overall Raksha Bandhan-related trade, including gifts, sweets, apparel, electronics, dry fruits, decorative items and other festive products, could exceed Rs 30,000 crore.
Raksha Bandhan shopping picks up across markets
With four days remaining before Raksha Bandhan, markets across Delhi are witnessing increased customer activity, particularly during the evening hours.
Major markets such as Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Karol Bagh, Lajpat Nagar, Kamla Nagar, Rajouri Garden, Gandhi Nagar, Khari Baoli and Laxmi Nagar are seeing shoppers preparing for the festival.
According to CAIT, similar shopping activity is being reported by trader organisations in different parts of the country.
Theme-based rakhis attract buyers
Alongside traditional rakhis, theme-based designs are also being promoted this year.
According to CAIT national secretary general and Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal, rakhis based on themes such as Viksit Bharat, Modi Guarantee, BrahMos, Nari Vandan, Atmanirbhar Bharat and Vocal for Local are attracting attention.
Women entrepreneurs, self-help groups and artisans have also showcased handcrafted rakhis inspired by themes including patriotism, women’s empowerment and nation-building.
CAIT said BrahMos, Rashtra Raksha Sutra and Viksit Bharat-themed rakhis have generated interest among younger buyers, while Nari Vandan and Lakhpati Didi designs have attracted attention among women.
Regional crafts add to rakhi choices
Rakhis inspired by India's regional art and craft traditions are also being promoted in the market.
These include Khadi rakhis from Nagpur, Sanganeri art rakhis from Jaipur, seed rakhis from Pune, tea leaf rakhis from Assam, jute rakhis from Kolkata, bamboo rakhis, silk rakhis and Madhubani art rakhis from Bihar.
Eco-friendly and seed-based rakhis are also attracting attention as consumers look for alternatives to conventional designs.
Gifts, sweets boost festive trade
Raksha Bandhan shopping extends beyond rakhis, with several other categories seeing demand ahead of the festival.
CAIT said gift packs, chocolate hampers, dry-fruit boxes, handicrafts, ethnic wear and traditional sweets have also registered growth in sales.
When these categories are included, along with apparel, electronics, decorative items and other festive products, CAIT expects overall Raksha Bandhan-related trade to exceed Rs 30,000 crore.
The Rs 30,000 crore figure should not be added to the Rs 25,000 crore rakhi estimate, as the broader estimate includes the rakhi trade and other overlapping categories.
Local markets remain key for shoppers
Despite the growing presence of e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms, CAIT said many consumers continue to prefer physical markets for Raksha Bandhan shopping.
The festival is also providing an opportunity for women entrepreneurs, self-help groups, cottage industries and local artisans to sell handcrafted products.
Khandelwal said the demand for indigenous rakhis could provide economic opportunities for local producers and artisans while supporting traditional crafts.
