Wooden flowers popular during Deepavali

Wooden flowers are a popular choice among the Hindus as they usher in the auspicious Deepavali celebration today.

S. Sangeetha, 24, a trader in Little India, Brickfields, said wooden flowers are unique and more long lasting than plastic flowers.

"We sell wooden flowers only during Deepavali and Aidilfitri. The Indians love wooden flowers as they are beautiful, easy to care and last up to five years," she told Bernama here, yesterday.

Sangeetha, who has been running the family business for the past six years, said she got the materials to make the wooden flowers from abroad.

"A bouquet of wooden flowers is sold at RM50 to RM80, depending on the size. It may take some time to make, but it is worth the effort as demand is high."

M. Nashaa, 29, from Melaka said she loved the wooden flowers and often buy them for home decoration and as gifts for friends.

"They (wooden flowers) are colourful and come in various designs. They are also affordable," she added.

In Little India, last minute shoppers thronged the shopping haven to do their last minute shopping and to cash in on attractive discounts.

Abaez, 35, a tourist from Nigeria said he bought the kurta (traditional Indian attire) at a bargain price.

"The sellers told me they were going to make a sale on the eve of Deepavali. So, I took the opportunity to buy the kurta," he added.