Festival frenzy grips Kollam on the eve of Thiruvonam

The festival fever in Kollam reached its peak on Saturday as people flooded the streets and shops for the last-minute Onam shopping spree known as ‘Uthrada Pachil’. Textile shops were bustling with customers picking out their festive outfits, while grocery and vegetable shops had long queues. Flower vendors were in high demand as shoppers sought out various flowers for their decorations. Street vendors selling a variety of items also saw brisk business as families prepared for the Onam feast. Despite traffic snarls and crowded malls, businesses reported a successful day of sales. With the absence of organized events by the District Tourism Promotion Council, the crowds are expected to reduce in the coming days. Bakers and restaurants were also busy with customers booking slots for the Thiruvonam day feast.