Markets Teem with Varalakshmi Shoppers; Prices Hit The Roof in Andhra
VISHAKHAPATNAM: Markets were bustling with eager Varalakshmi Vratam devotees here on Friday. However, eye-watering prices took some of the sheen off the shopping experience.
Puja material stalls particularly the ones selling fruits, flowers, textiles, and gold were very crowded.
The flower and fruit shops in Rythu bazaars were packed though prices were inflated. Similarly, the gold and textile shops along the city's main roads attracted large crowds.
As the markets were packed from morning to noon, the main roads were congested.
Chrysanthemums (chamantulu), usually priced at Rs 400 per kg in the rythu bazaars, were sold at Rs 600 per kg due to scarcity. Apples were sold at ` 300 per kg, pomegranates at two pieces for RS 100 and oranges at four for `100.
The price of a dozen small bananas skyrocketed to Rs 100, even though they were supposed to be sold for RS 70 in the rythu bazaars. Despite the high prices, the markets remained congested with eager buyers.
On Friday, 22-carat gold was fixed at Rs 6,555. A one-gm coin cost Rs 7,350, with an additional making charge of 9 per cent, for a total cost of Rs 7,350 per gram.
The jewellery shops were teeming with buyers, and many spent half an hour waiting to pay their bills, reflecting the busy and time-consuming nature of the markets during the festival.
