Amritsar’s Golden Temple complex is refreshingly non-commercial; even its suitably-huge toilets are free. (and meticulously maintained)
All nearby streets are another matter, entirely; shops abound.
Rents for commercial premises are reportedly among India’s highest,
However, a lot of commercial activity does not benefit landlords – it is “informal”, “al fresco”, conducted on the actual streets.
Many buyers and sellers radiate good cheer.
“Mr Balloon”, however, took no evident delight in his spectacularly large and colourful wares.
(photo copyright ©️ Doug Spencer, taken a few minutes walk away from the Golden Temple at 9.59 am on 09 May 2024. A future, multi-image post will celebrate these streets)
Musical bonus
The late great English guitarist John Renbourn (1944-2015) did take evident delight in balloons.
On the self-penned title piece of his 1979 album Renbourn played all the guitars. Tony Roberts played flute: