Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)

Udupi, Aug 8: The price of the world-famous Shankarapura Jasmine has skyrocketed to Rs 2100 per bundle, a significant increase from the earlier price of Rs 280 per bundle on July 22.

In July, much of the jasmine crop was destroyed due to high water content and limited sunshine, leading to root rot in many plants. Ramakrishna Sharma, a jasmine grower from Bantakallu, stated that he used to sell 100 bundles of jasmine per day, but now, due to the rainy season, it is difficult to obtain even one bundle.

Despite the high price of Rs 2100, jasmine is scarcely available in the market. The rates of both Bhatkal Jasmine and Shankarapura Jasmine are currently at the same level.

Vincent Rodrigues, a jasmine grower from Shankarapura, explained that the lack of sunshine has reduced the jasmine crop yield. A week of sunshine would allow growers to harvest the jasmine.

With festivals lined up on August 9 (Nagara Panchami), August 16 (Sankramana), and August 25 (Sri Krishna Janmashtami), the demand for jasmine is expected to increase. While jasmine is not in high demand for Nagara Panchami, the Sankramana festival falling on a Friday this year is expected to create a significant demand, according to a jasmine trader.