A common cotton bag widely used in Indian households has been listed as a luxury souvenir on the American retail site Nordstrom, priced at Rs 4,228 (about $48). Marketed by the Japanese brand Puebco, this “Indian Souvenir Bag” is promoted as a quirky, upcycled accessory for travelers and those who appreciate Indian culture. However, for most Indians, the bag is instantly recognizable as the familiar cloth tote once given free at sweet shops or snack counters.
The bag is decorated with colorful Hindi phrases such as “Ramesh Special Namkeen,” “Anita Confectionary Works,” and “Chetak Sweets,” replicating the logos and packaging styles of small local Indian businesses. A screenshot of the listing went viral on social media platform X, triggering amusement and surprise among users.
One user, Sheel Mohnot, commented humorously that this bag was the same one given free at snack shops in his hometown, now being sold for $48 at Nordstrom. Others shared nostalgic reactions, recalling how their mothers would expect the bag for free and would be upset if asked to pay for it.
The listing sparked broader discussions about how everyday Indian products are repackaged and sold as exotic or vintage items in Western markets at inflated prices. Some view this trend as cultural appropriation presented as global fashion, while others joke about the business opportunity created by the price difference.
Comments ranged from surprise at the price being only $48 and not more, to remarks about how Indian customers would never pay such amounts for a bag commonly given free with purchases. One user noted the arbitrage potential: buy cheaply in India and sell for a high price abroad, calling it a potentially very profitable venture.
