As India prepares for the upcoming lighting festival Diwali, one of the biggest celebrations in the nation, decorative lighting products imported from China are becoming highly visible in Patna, reported the Times of India.

Traditional earthern lamps known as diyas are being gradually replaced with Chinese imports to the extent that some local potters are considering career changes. Compared to five years ago, sales of handmade terracotta diyas dropped 50%, said a manufacturer Jitender Kumar.

Chinese lights can be seen in the narrow lane of Chandni Chowk Market near Patna Junction. The lights are beginning to replace local indigenous products.

“A few years back, we used to sell Indian products,” said Rakesh Kumar of Ganpati Electrics. “But they faced tough competition from the Chinese products and slowly vanished from the market."

Chinese electric products are replacing traditional lights because of its more appealing designs, lower prices, and longer shelf life, explained Kumar. Prices of lights fitted in a revolving crystal globe, plastic trees, Swastik and ‘Shubh Dipawali’ banners are available from INR 90 to INR 800 (US $1.36 to US $12.06).

LED light options are also becoming available on the market. Compared to Gel Rice lights sold till 2014, "LED lights have more life and consume less electricity than Gel Rice lights," said Ashok Kumar of Cheap Electric Store.

A 9.14 meter long wire multi colored LED lights fitted with small bulbs costs only INR 50, while the 33.53 meter long light is priced at INR 110. Prices tend to vary according to the length of the string lights. Cylindrical and flattened rope shaped LEDs are also available, with the cost of a 10 meter light ranging from INR 600 to INR 650 respectively.

There are also electric diyas and candles entering the market, with the cost for 25 pieces placed at INR 40.

"We also have lights in the shape of grapes, trees and other fruits. People look for such items to place them in their drawing rooms," said Niranjan of Asha Electrics.