NewsFlash Daily™
19 March
Festive demand surges at KR Market as Ugadi triggers steep rise in flower and fruit prices across Bengaluru
Bengaluru: As Ugadi, the first festival of the new year, approaches, Bengaluru is witnessing massive festive crowds and soaring prices of flowers and fruits, especially at the iconic KR Market.
Despite the sharp price rise, residents are thriving in festive spirit, flocking to markets in large numbers to purchase flowers, fruits, and puja essentials.
Flower Prices Touch the Sky
The prices of flowers have seen a sudden and steep surge, putting pressure on consumers’ budgets.
Jasmine (mallige), which earlier sold at Rs800–Rs850 per kg, has now climbed to Rs. 1,000 per kg. Similarly, the price of a jasmine garland has increased from Rs 80 to Rs 100.
Chrysanthemum (sevanthige) prices have risen from Rs150–Rs180 per kg to Rs200–Rs250, while roses have touched Rs250 per kg.
Even marigold (chendu), usually considered affordable, is now being sold at Rs40–Rs50 per kg.
Essential festive items have not been spared either. Neem leaves, crucial for Ugadi rituals, have doubled from Rs 10 to Rs 20 per bunch, while mango leaves have surged from Rs10 to Rs 25, reflecting the impact of rising demand.
Fruit Prices Also Surge Amid Festive Demand
Alongside flowers, fruit prices have also recorded a significant spike due to increased consumption during the summer and festival season.
Muskmelon prices have jumped from Rs 70 to Rs 100 per kg, while the price of wood apple (bael fruit), a key ingredient for Ugadi pachadi, has surged from Rs 20 to Rs 50 per piece.
Grapes are now being sold at Rs120 per kg, up from Rs80, and pomegranates have risen from Rs180 to Rs220 per kg.
Demand Outpaces Supply
The simultaneous arrival of summer heat and Ugadi festivities has disrupted supply chains slightly, while demand has nearly doubled.
This imbalance has led to a sharp escalation in prices, forcing consumers to spend more despite the rising costs.
“Demand has increased significantly due to the festival, while supply has been slightly affected, leading to higher prices,” market sources indicated.
Price Rise Across Key Bengaluru Markets
The price surge is not limited to KR Market alone. Similar trends have been observed in prominent markets such as Malleshwaram Market, Gandhi Bazaar, and Yeshwanthpur Market, where festive buying has peaked.
