With the Gowri-Ganesha festival approaching (August 27), markets across Bengaluru are witnessing a sharp rise in the prices of flowers and fruits. Traders say the surge is a result of high festive demand combined with erratic supply in recent weeks, a trend that has now become routine during major celebrations in the city.
On Sunday, jasmine touched Rs 3,800 per kg and as much as Rs 40 for just 10 grams, one of the highest prices seen this season. Tube roses, which were selling at Rs 120–Rs 150 per kg in wholesale markets, including KR Marker, cost as much as Rs 400 per kg in retail outlets across Basavanagudi and Jayanagar.
"Compared to Varamahalakshmi or Dasara, these prices are still on the lower side, but for consumers, the pinch is real," said Manjunath, member, Flower Merchants' Association.
It is not just flowers. Fruits, too, have become significantly costlier. Yelakki bananas are retailing at Rs 160 a kg, oranges at Rs 200, and apples at Rs 240-260, each priced at least Rs 30–Rs 40 more than earlier this week.
Read more at The New Indian Express
