As Vinayagar Chaturthi approaches, Coimbatore's flower market sees a surge in customers and prices. Jasmine, chrysanthemum, and rose prices have doubled, while devotees eagerly purchase flowers for the festival.
Coimbatore: As the city gears up to celebrate Vinayagar Chaturthi tomorrow, the Coimbatore flower market is witnessing a significant surge in both customer footfall and flower prices. The festive demand has led to a sharp increase in the cost of flowers commonly used for decorating Vinayagar idols.
Jasmine, a popular choice for the festival, has seen its price skyrocket from Rs. 500 per kilogram last week to between Rs. 800 and Rs. 1000 per kilogram now. Similarly, chrysanthemums that were selling for Rs. 100 last week are now priced between Rs. 200 and Rs. 300. Rose prices have also doubled, reflecting the high demand for the upcoming celebration.
Other items essential for Vinayagar decorations have also experienced price hikes. These include coconut frond garlands, mango leaf garlands, and madar flower garlands, along with various other puja flowers and decorative items.
Despite the soaring prices, devotees are flocking to the markets, driven by their enthusiasm to celebrate Vinayagar Chaturthi.
Women shoppers, in particular, expressed their determination to purchase flowers for the festival regardless of the increased costs. They were seen buying roses, chrysanthemums, and jasmine in large quantities, emphasizing the importance of the celebration over the financial burden.
The bustling scenes at the Coimbatore flower market underscore the cultural significance of Vinayagar Chaturthi in the region, with devotees willing to go the extra mile to ensure a grand celebration despite the economic challenges posed by the price surge.