During the festive season of Diwali, Belagavi undergoes a remarkable transformation, emerging as a captivating city that entices all who encounter its inviting charm.
Potholes are disregarded as people graciously yield to one another, creating a harmonious flow. Vibrant hues saturate the surroundings, infusing the city with a kaleidoscope of colors. The air becomes infused with delightful fragrances, a medley of sizzling Chakli, sweet Laddoos, and the lingering scent of fresh flowers and new garments. Each household eagerly welcomes new shopping bags brimming with clothing, traditional diyas, essential groceries, and thoughtful gifts.
This metamorphosis not only enhances the visual appeal of Belagavi but also fosters a sense of warmth and unity among its residents. The city radiates an aura of celebration, inviting all to partake in its joyous festivities.
The city center of Belagavi needs to address the issue of limited parking space, as this could potentially result in shops in the heart of the city losing valuable customers. Dharmveer Sambhaji Maharaj Circle is consistently overcrowded with cars from Goa and other areas. The new Bakri Mandi parking lot is relatively unknown, and Laxmi Parking and others are difficult to access.
Belagavi’s Golden Shopping quadrangle, consisting of Ramdev Galli, Khade Bazar, Ganpat Galli, and Maruti Galli, each offers something unique. Additionally, the street vendors of Samadevi Galli and Kirloskar Road contribute to a small Business District, reminiscent of Pune’s Tulshibag-Laxmi Road-Bajirao Road.
Khade Bazar possesses its own charm, with a variety of ready-to-wear shops and more. Furthermore, jewelry stores such as Kalyan, Joyalukkas, and Belagavi’s very own Potdar Brothers indicate the potential value of transactions in this area. We also have the latest addition, PNG Jewellers, Tanishq although it is somewhat distant at Basveshwar Circle and Malbar on College Road.
Shoppers can be seen enjoying snacks at All India Bhel, Samadhan, Ajanta, Suvarna Mandir, and various other locations, with shopping bags in hand and children running around.
It is a delight to witness housewives savoring their food, having completed their shopping, and radiating happiness on their faces.
Samadevi Galli, Khade Bazar, Ganpat Galli, and Maruti Galli are bustling with small-time vendors selling exquisite earthen lamps. Some of these lamps are so large that they can hold more than 10 wicks at once. They are hand-painted, adorned with sequins, and have multiple layers, making them truly unique. Pangul Galli offers a variety of colorful lanterns, soaps, oils, Diwali decorations, and beautiful Rangoli imprints. Ganpat Galli is a one-stop shop for everything you need during Diwali.
You can find flowers, Rangoli, lamps, fruits, lanterns, kids’ clothing, vibrant synthetic and embroidered sarees, savory snacks, fairy lights, bags, belts, watches, and much more. If you’re looking for accessories and decor with a touch of variety, make sure to visit Maruti Galli. Additionally, you can indulge in delicious savory snacks like Chaklis and Kadbolis at select shops like Lokur and the one opposite.
Tailor shops are working tirelessly, with clothes hanging on hangers, ready to be worn. Shahapur market is bustling with shoppers carrying grocery bags. I noticed many poha shops stocking up on sacks filled with Poha, Phutane, Groundnuts, and other essential ingredients for Faraal.
Children are busy constructing forts with great attention to detail. They use buckets of water and muddy hands to shape the ramparts, beautifully decorating Shivaji’s throne. Cars and planes compete with soldiers on horseback, creating a captivating sight. The children have already stocked up on crackers, which they will enjoy for days, a tradition unique to the Shahapur area.
As noon approaches, women disappear into their kitchens, experimenting with shared recipes for Chakli, Chirota, Karanji, Shev, Chivda, Kadboli, Shankarpali, and Laddoos.
The Diwali week has arrived, and it is not merely a festival; it is a time that we cherish and create lasting memories. So, take a moment to inhale deeply, Belagavi, and let a smile grace your face, for happiness is about to grace your homes.