Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Oct 12: Following a steep drop in prices during the Pitru Paksha period after Ganeshotsava, the famous Udupi  Shankerpura jasmine has seen a massive surge in demand and price with the onset of the Navaratri festival.

The fragrant flower is currently burning a hole in consumers' pockets, with market prices skyrocketing to Rs 1,600 per 'Atte' on Sunday. Just 15 days ago, the price hovered between Rs 240 and Rs 300 per 'Atte', marking an almost five-fold increase in the open market.

Meanwhile, the Mallige Growers' Association has fixed the price at Rs 570 per 'Atte'. The sudden spike in demand is attributed to the ongoing Navaratri celebrations, as the flower is highly sought after and considered essential for the worship of the goddess. Market sources indicate that prices may climb even higher in the coming days as the Dasara festivities peak.

The price of Jaji flowers has also witnessed a sharp rise, reaching Rs 800 per 'Atte' in the open market, compared to the Growers' Association rate of Rs 160 per 'Atte'.

With the Dasara festival in full swing, the prices of all varieties of flowers are currently experiencing a significant upward trend across the region.