Hyderabad: The economic slowdown has affected business but businessmen are not slowing down when it comes to ritual, celebratory pomp, and charity during the Ganesha festival and the observation of Muharram.
Businessmen who spent from Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000 on celebrations last year have kept the same budget. They won’t reduce expenses as the collections have come in over the year.
Similarly, those observing Muharram and making charity donations during the first ten days indicate no change. Mir Hadi Ali, a Shia community senior in the Old City said: “For the observance of Muharram, households save every month. Charity during this month is a priority. It will be carried out with due diligence.”
The water sabils, distribution of food and sharbat, and other charity to non-government organizations are done this month. The slowdown has had no impact on these sentimental offerings.
Businessmen across communities agree that customer footfalls are limited and that daily fixed costs is a challenge. They say they will have to brave up for tough times if the situation does not improve.
Deepa Shailender of Kapra will take part in festival gaiety. “The festival fervour will be the same, as it is said that more the hardship the stronger the prayer,” he said.
