Rows of shops offer traditional attire, accessories, and Indian sweets buzzing with customers choosing sarees, kurtas, and home decorations in preparation for the Festival of Lights.

Textile trader R Pushpa, 53, said sales have picked up since last weekend, with many looking for matching outfits for the whole family.

“Business was slow before that, but now more people are coming, especially in the evenings and on weekends. Many of our regulars also return,” she said at her shop here.

Pushpa, who has been operating in the area for more than five years, said this year’s sales have been more encouraging compared with last year, as shoppers appear more enthusiastic about buying new clothes.

Indian sweets seller M Krishnan said popular treats such as laddu, jalebi and palkova are also in high demand.

“Orders are increasing every day. We’ve had to restock frequently because customers are already placing advance orders for family and friends,” he said.

The 52-year-old added that the aroma of freshly made sweets each morning continues to draw loyal customers, including those from outside KL.

One shopper, A Suguna, a nurse from Subang Jaya, made her way to Brickfields after work to buy clothes and sweets for her family in Seremban.

“I come here every year because there’s a wide selection and it feels festive. I want to make sure everything’s ready before heading home for the holidays,” the 29-year-old said.

Despite being tired after work, Suguna said the vibrant sights and sounds of Brickfields heighten her excitement for her trip home to celebrate Deepavali.

Flower vendor A Sivananthan, 54, expects this weekend to be the busiest period as the celebration draws near. “This whole area, especially the flower stalls, will be packed, and we usually sell out completely,” he said.