Ludhiana,
December 16
“My daughter had to dress like a young belle of rural Punjab in order to participate in her school’s annual function. Every parent wants over-all development of their child. Both me and my husband are happy that she will be on stage. Similarly, my son is to play Santa Claus.
We have been told by the school authorities that either we get the costumes stitched or get these on hire. On enquiry we have found that ‘giddha dress’ will cost Rs 350, including jewellery like ‘saggi phul’ and Santa’s dress will be available at Rs 150 plus a security deposit of Rs 500. This really upset our budget”, rued a harried parent.
For the salaried class, shelling out huge amount for school functions spread out over the year, has become a problem.
A times the schools get the costumes stitched from boutiques and charge the students a tidy sum. There are shops in Ghumar Mandi and Chaura Bazar that do brisk business, renting not only dresses but costume jewellery too.
A Rajasthani dress costs Rs 250 onwards and the jewellery costs as much. Jewellery called ‘Devdas’ sets can be hired for Rs 1,000. According to a shop owner: “Such sets are hired by few students who want to look extraordinary. If the customers are known to us we waive the security. If not, we ask for deposit.”
Santa costumes can be seen aplenty as almost all major schools celebrate Christmas. The costing rent is Rs 100 whereas an army man’s costume, another favourite, comes for Rs 100.
Big dealers provide dresses, jewellery and other accessories to entire troupes comprising 200 or more students. Parents face a Hobson’s choice. If they let their children participate , there is a hole in their pocket, if they don’t their wards ae denied a chance to go on stage.
