In a spirited bid to spotlight the charm of local markets, the Chandigarh Beopar Mandal (CBM) held its first-ever competition recognizing the most beautifully decorated and well-managed markets in the city. The initiative, launched to coincide with Diwali 2024, was designed to help markets attract more visitors and bring an added festive cheer to the streets of Chandigarh.
For the first time in the city’s history, markets were encouraged to step up their decor and parking management, with five markets winning awards for outstanding decorations and three more for exceptional parking arrangements. The competition, helmed by the CBM’s IT Cell, saw enthusiastic participation from traders across the city, and the results were nothing short of dazzling.
With the rise of mall culture and increasing competition for customer footfall, Chandigarh’s local markets have been striving to keep their appeal. The CBM recognized this trend and devised an initiative aimed at bringing back visitors and enhancing the shopping experience for citizens. Mr. Charanjiv Singh, President of the Chandigarh Beopar Mandal, shared that the idea stemmed from a need to invigorate markets during Diwali, the festival that brings communities together. The Board, through discussions with local authorities and traffic management, arranged additional parking spaces at 31 nearby schools, further facilitating easier access for shoppers.
In addition to logistical support, the Board encouraged market associations to embrace the festive spirit with vibrant decorations. The IT Cell, chaired by Mr. Diwakar Sahaja, issued an advisory promoting lighting, floral decorations, and fabric accents to create a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers. These efforts not only beautified the markets but also created a community-driven push to enhance the local economy.
On Diwali Eve, a team of judges from the CBM, including prominent members like Mr. Nal Vohra and Mr. Sanjeev Chadda, evaluated markets across Chandigarh based on their decor and parking management. The criteria included elements such as the use of lights, thematic decor, and ease of parking for visitors, with points awarded for each. From these assessments, five markets emerged as leaders in festive decor:
- Sector 17 Business Promotion Council
- Sector 35C Market Welfare Association
- Sector 22B Mobile Market Traders Welfare Association
- Sector 22D Jewelers Market Welfare Association
- Sector 20C Inner Market Welfare Association
Each of these markets will receive equal honors, celebrating their creativity and dedication to providing a memorable shopping experience. In addition, three markets were specially recognized for implementing parking measures that helped handle increased traffic, including clear signage, volunteer guards, and coordination with nearby parking zones. These markets are Sector 29C Market Committee, Sector 19D Capital Traders Association, and Sector 18D Market Dealers Association. To include smaller businesses, the Progressive Shopkeepers Association of the Sector 20D Booth Jewelers Market was awarded a special honor for outstanding decoration.
With nearly 70% of Chandigarh’s markets participating in the competition, the event was a massive success, underscoring the community’s enthusiasm for promoting local businesses. “Our goal is to have 100% participation in the coming years,” Mr. Singh noted, expressing the Board’s vision of positioning Chandigarh’s markets as competitive, lively alternatives to shopping malls. He shared that the awards will not only provide recognition but also encourage further improvements, motivating traders to make the most of their creative energies.
Moving forward, the CBM hopes to expand the scope of this initiative by introducing prize money and donations for market enhancements, fostering an even stronger spirit of community and celebration. Next year, a pre-event press conference is planned to offer market associations a roadmap for the competition, equipping them with guidelines and strategies for decor and management.
The awards ceremony, set for November 20, will honor these markets in a grand celebration with members of all Chandigarh market associations, esteemed guests, and press representatives. By bringing local traders together to celebrate their achievements, the CBM hopes to create a lasting tradition that will make the festive season in Chandigarh brighter year after year.
As Chandigarh’s markets continue to flourish and adapt to changing times, the CBM’s recognition of local markets' dedication and resilience reflects a shared commitment to preserving the city’s vibrant culture. This initiative marks a festive legacy in the making, where markets brim with the lights, colors, and warmth of Diwali—a tradition that promises to grow stronger with each passing year.
