A few days ago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the public to buy Swadeshi (indigenous) goods for decorating homes and gifting to friends during this festive season.
His appeal is also receiving public support.
We went to various markets in Delhi to find out which Swadeshi items are available for home decoration and gifting that are also affordable.
Delhi’s Markets Leading the Way Towards Self-Reliant Shopping
🪔 Introduction: Why Vocal for Local Matters?
“Uphaar wahi jo Bharat mein bana ho” – this slogan is becoming the heartbeat of India’s growing self-reliance movement. The idea is simple: instead of buying imported products, choose goods proudly made in India. From handcrafted gifts to traditional clothing, Indian markets are filled with treasures that represent our culture and economy.
Delhi, being the heart of India, is now emerging as a hub for Vocal for Local shopping. Its markets are not only popular among locals but also attract tourists looking for authentic Indian products.
🛍️ Delhi’s Top Markets Supporting ‘Vocal for Local’
Whether it’s a beautiful brass idol of Lord Ganesha or finely crafted wooden elephants and horses, Madhubani paintings from Mithila, or exquisite showpieces made on paper – Delhi’s markets are filled with such treasures. These items are not only swadeshi (locally made) but also very affordable, making them a perfect choice for gifting during festivals.
1. Dilli Haat – Cultural Shopping Paradise
If you are looking for a special gift item made in a particular state, you can visit Delhi Haat located in INA. Here, you will find world-famous Madhubani paintings in the Crafts of India showroom. Shopkeepers say that during festivals, paintings priced between ₹500 and ₹5,000 are in the highest demand. If you want to gift something to a woman, you will find beautiful ladies’ purses made from ‘kona grass’ at the Manipur northeastern stall. Additionally, the Phulkari Dupatta House has beautiful Punjabi Phulkari suits, with a starting price for a full 3-piece dress at ₹1,450.
Dilli Haat is a perfect blend of handicrafts, textiles, and local cuisine. Every state brings its handmade jewelry, handloom sarees, wooden crafts, and traditional home décor.
✨ Best Buy: Handwoven shawls, terracotta art, Madhubani paintings.
2. Janpath Market – Budget-Friendly Local Fashion
During the festive season, decorative items are the most common gifts. If you are looking to buy showpieces made of wood and brass, there are many options available in the Janpath market. Shopkeepers at the Cottage Arts gift shop in Janpath say that people buy decorated elephants the most, and horses are also in high demand. For those who want to give religious items, brass idols of gods like Vishnu, Krishna, Ganesh, and Murugan are available. The 4-inch idols made of brass are particularly popular. For gifts made of ‘Pital Brasso,’ a pair of swans and flowerpots are the most frequently purchased items.
This marketplace Known as the fashion hub for youngsters, Janpath offers ethnic jewelry, cotton kurtis, juttis, and handicrafts at very affordable rates.
✨ Best Buy: Rajasthani jewelry, Kashmiri scarves, bamboo products .
3. Karol Bagh – Mix of Tradition and Modern Local Brands
Karol Bagh is a shopper’s delight where you’ll find local clothing brands, wedding wear, electronics, and accessories. Many Indian small businesses thrive here with quality products.
✨ Best Buy: Bridal lehengas, locally made footwear, ethnic suits.
4. Chandni Chowk – The Oldest Local Shopping Destination
Chandni Chowk is already famous for shopping. During festivals, traders usually offer discounts and special deals. This becomes a great opportunity for buyers to save a significant amount.
The centuries-old Chandni Chowk is famous for its zari work, silver jewelry, handloom fabrics, spices, and sweets. It represents the soul of India’s ‘Vocal for Local’ spirit.
✨ Best Buy: Banarasi sarees, jewelry, handwoven dupattas.
5. Connaught Place (CP) – Local Meets Modern
CP is not just about branded stores – its inner circles and stalls offer locally made handicrafts, souvenirs, and small-business innovations.
✨ Best Buy: Wooden handicrafts, Indian paintings, handmade candles.
Here are the prices of traditional gift items:
| Item Name | Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Brass Laughing Buddha | 3,500 to 18,000 |
| Brass Idol of God | 1,650 to 17,500 |
| Brass Ganesha (with stone fitting) | 22,000 |
| Marble Lamp Set | 450 to 3,500 |
| Wooden Elephant/Horse | 850 to 5,000 |
| Marble Elephant/Horse | 200 to 3,500 |
| Madhubani Painting | 500 to 400,000 |
| Paper Showpiece | 500 to 3,500 |
| Phulkari Three-Piece Dress | Starts from 1,450 |
| Manipuri Purse | 700 to 2,000 |
| Flower Pot | 50 to 2,000 |
| Plant Pot | 50 to 10,000 |
| Bowl | Starts from 50 |
| Plate | Starts from 100 |
| Aroma Pot | 250 to 500 |
| Kashmiri Pashmina Shawl | Starts from 2,000 |
| Roadside Laughing Buddha | 100 to 900 |
Note: Prices are in Rupees and depend on the quality and size
📊 A ‘Vocal for Local’ Showcase
| Emporium/State | Featured Products/Handicrafts |
|---|---|
| Andhra Pradesh | Kondapalli toys, Kalamkari textiles |
| Karnataka | Rosewood furniture, sandalwood crafts |
| Kerala | Silk scarves, coir products, brass lamps |
| Rajasthan | Blue pottery, miniature paintings, leather goods |
| Jammu and Kashmir | Kashmiri carpets, Pashmina shawls, wood carvings |
| Tamil Nadu | Brassware, bronze idols, traditional jewelry |
🌿 Benefits of Choosing ‘Made in India’ Gifts
- ✅ Supports Local Artisans & Small Businesses
- ✅ Boosts Indian Economy & Employment
- ✅ Promotes Indian Culture & Heritage
- ✅ Eco-Friendly & Unique Products
🎁 This Festive Season: Choose Local, Gift Local
Next time you think of buying a gift, remember: “Uphaar wahi jo Bharat mein bana ho.” Delhi’s vibrant markets are a reminder that when you shop local, you don’t just buy a product—you support a story, a family, and the nation.
If you also know of any market where affordable and good-quality products made in India are available, then please share your story. Drop them in the comments below—let’s celebrate its spirit together!
Also read: You are planning to visit Kashi Vishwanath, then you must read this—it will be very useful for you.