CHENNAI/TIRUCHY/COIMBATORE—As the auspicious occasion of Ayudha Pooja approaches, market prices for flowers, vegetables, fruits, and prayer essentials have experienced a dramatic increase across various districts of Tamil Nadu. This spike in prices is a common phenomenon during festival seasons, but this year’s surge appears particularly pronounced, raising concerns among consumers and traders alike.
Significant Price Increases in Flower Markets
In Coimbatore, the price of jasmine (malli) has skyrocketed from its typical range of Rs 500-600 per kilogram to an astonishing Rs 1,200-1,400. On the eve of the festival, the market saw a remarkable influx of flowers, with 50 tonnes stocked—ten times the usual sales volume for this time of year. Overall, flower prices in Coimbatore have surged by over 100-120%, reflecting heightened festive demand.
At the bustling Gandhi Market in Tiruchy, the situation is no different. Prices of various flowers, including malligai, mullai, and jathi, have nearly tripled, with jasmine commanding a price of Rs 800 per kilogram. The nearby Srirangam flower market has also witnessed an uptick in customers purchasing flowers at inflated rates, demonstrating the widespread impact of festive demand.
In Madurai, oleander flowers are fetching Rs 800 per kilogram, a steep increase compared to regular prices. The pattern of rising flower prices is particularly noticeable in Nagapattinam markets, where jasmine and mullai are being sold for Rs 800 and Rs 900 per kilogram, respectively. Farmers in the region, such as MR Subramaniyan from Adhanur in Vedaranyam block, have noted that prices are expected to double during Ayudha Pooja, underscoring the market’s reliance on festival demand.
Prayer Essentials and Coconut Prices Soar
The surge in flower prices has also extended to other prayer essentials, particularly coconuts, which have become increasingly costly in Madurai. The wholesale price for coconuts has climbed above Rs 80 per unit, with retail markets reflecting this trend. On Thursday, wholesale prices hovered between Rs 50 and Rs 60, but the demand for coconuts during festival season has pushed retail prices higher.
This dramatic increase in coconut prices is attributed to the high festive demand, which often leads to shortages as suppliers struggle to meet consumer needs during celebrations. The effect on market dynamics is evident, as prices rise in anticipation of increased purchasing activity.
Escalating Vegetable and Fruit Prices
The rising prices are not limited to flowers and prayer essentials; vegetables and fruits have also seen significant price hikes across Tamil Nadu. At the Koyambedu Market in Chennai, a reduction in supply—likely due to low yields—has further complicated the situation this festive season. The wholesale prices for essential vegetables like onions and tomatoes have risen, currently standing at Rs 70 per kilogram for both, while yams are priced at Rs 45 per kilogram and green peas at Rs 150 per kilogram.
In Coimbatore, fruit prices have surged by at least 20%, with lemons selling at an astonishing Rs 260 per kilogram, a drastic increase from just Rs 10 per kilogram the previous week. The price increase highlights the volatility of produce prices during festive periods, which can cause significant strain on household budgets.
Conversely, in the Madurai district, tomato prices have witnessed a downturn. Heavy rainfall in recent weeks has adversely affected the shelf life of locally cultivated tomatoes, leading traders from other states to shy away from purchasing local stock. As a result, tomato prices have plummeted to around Rs 650 per 15-kilogram crate, down from Rs 900 last week, demonstrating the complex dynamics of supply and demand in agricultural markets.
Conclusion
The days leading up to Ayudha Pooja have been marked by a significant increase in the prices of flowers, vegetables, and essential items in Tamil Nadu. Consumers are feeling the pinch as market prices escalate due to heightened demand, while farmers and traders navigate the challenges of supply shortages and fluctuating market conditions.
With the ongoing festival season, it remains to be seen how long these price hikes will persist and what impact they will have on consumers and local economies. As markets adjust to the changing dynamics, both traders and consumers are advised to stay vigilant about prices and supply levels in the lead-up to Ayudha Pooja.
This year’s dramatic price increases serve as a reminder of the intricate interplay between cultural traditions and market economics, and the challenges faced by consumers during festive times.
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