Pune: With the onset of Navratri, the Pune flower market at Market Yard has seen a significant influx of flowers like marigolds and chrysanthemums, among others.
Traders have noted that flower prices are currently lower than last year but are likely to rise by the time of Dussehra, the festival marking the end of Navratri. Traditionally, demand for flowers surges during Navratri after Ganeshotsav.
This year, the supply of flowers has increased due to favorable weather conditions, with rains subsiding just in time for farmers in Pune, Solapur, and Satara to send their flower produce to market.
Sales of flowers began on Wednesday, with a noticeable crowd in the Mandai area as devotees prepared for Ghatasthapana, the first day of Navratri.
Temporary flower stalls have been set up in key locations, including Hutatma Babu Genu Chowk, Shanipar Chowk, and Rameshwar Chowk. The demand for various flowers like marigold, chrysanthemum, gulchadi, aster, and bijli has risen significantly as families prepare for Navratri celebrations.
Arun Veer, President of the Flower Market Traders Association, attributed the drop in marigold prices to increased supply but predicted a price hike as Dussehra approaches.
According to Veer, the flower market has seen a large quantity of substandard flowers. However, high-quality flowers continue to command strong demand and better prices.
He noted that farmers withheld their produce during the Pitrupaksha period due to low demand and prices, but that same stock is now hitting the market.
Flower merchant Sagar Bhosale from Market Yard shared that this year’s cultivation has been particularly fruitful, and flowers of superior quality are expected to sell at premium rates, especially in the days leading up to Dussehra.
Current Flower Prices (per kg based on quality):
Marigold: ₹30 to ₹35
Chrysanthemum: ₹100 to ₹160
Gulchadi: ₹260 to ₹320
Aster (small bunch): ₹60 to ₹100
Aster (big bunch): ₹25 to ₹30