This Store In London Is Charging Customers Rs 1.8 Lakh To Meet Santa Claus

We all grew up believing that there exists in the world a friendly figure called Santa Claus, one who rewarded kids for good behaviour. We hung candy canes and did our houses up in Christmas lights wondering if Santa will find our house easily.

Once the cookies and warm milk were laid out on the table, it was time to head to bed whether we were sleepy or not knowing if we couldn't meet Santa we'd at least have gifts from him waiting for us the next morning.

Today, though we see men dressed up in Santa suits and sitting in malls and parking lots waiting to greet eager folk. Well, at least the kids are happy.

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So imagine everyone's shock when Harrods, the 170-year-old high-end department store in London, restricted access to its Christmas grotto (where Santa Claus meets people), only letting in customers willing to spend 2,000 pounds (Rs 1.8 lakh or more).

The store also said that people who have a Green tier 2 or above Harrods Reward card can visit the Santa Claus. To reach the tier level, customers must spend between 2,000 pounds to 4,999 pounds, the Daily Mail reported.

"They have lost the true meaning of Christmas and given into the commercialisation of the season," The Daily Mail quoted a customer as telling the Guardian newspaper. "Visiting Father Christmas shouldn't be reserved for those that are fortunate enough to frequent the store and spend thousands of pounds."

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Following the backlash from the families who were disappointed by the decision, Harrods has agreed to allow 160 lower-spending families the chance to visit the grotto. They will get 10-minute appointments with the Santa Claus.

The grotto will operate in the five-and-a-half weeks until Christmas Eve and the tickets to see Santa Claus will cost Rs 1,823 per child. A spokeswoman of Harrods said that, "The Harrods Christmas Grotto is offered by invitation only to Harrods Rewards customers in recognition of their loyal custom throughout the year.

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"Due to demand, we invite Harrods Rewards customers who are Green tier 2 and above the opportunity to book tickets," she added.

Isn't this a really bizarre rule? Why won't you let any child see Santa Claus, just because the family doesn't want to spend as much?