Pune: As Navratri approaches, a significant number of devotees across India observe fasts, leading to a spike in demand for fasting-related food products.
Reflecting this trend, the grain market at Market Yard has witnessed an increased supply of sabudana, peanuts, and barnyard millet (bhagar) from various states. However, while the prices of sabudana have remained steady, those of peanuts and bhagar have risen by ₹4-5 per kilogram.
The majority of the sabudana supply comes from Tamil Nadu's Salem district, the sole producer of this essential fasting item in the country.
Traders at Market Yard report that the sabudana varieties—Extra Super Fine, Milk White, and regular—are arriving in sufficient quantities, maintaining stable prices.
According to Ashok Lodha, a prominent trader, the good production this season has kept sabudana prices unchanged compared to last year.
Meanwhile, bhagar and peanut prices have seen an upward trend. Bhagar, often preferred as a hygienic food during fasting, is experiencing a 10% price hike compared to last year.
Supplies of raw barnyard millet arrive from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Vidarbha, and the processed products reach Nashik's Market Yard after processing.
Traders also note increased arrivals of peanuts, with Spanish, Ghungroo, and Gujarati varieties entering the market. However, due to recent rainfall in Gujarat, arrivals have slightly dipped, pushing up the prices. Despite this, traders anticipate a price drop around Diwali as supplies increase.
Demand for fasting essentials such as sabudana, bhagar, amaranth, and peanut-based flours has soared in both wholesale and retail markets. Dishes like khichdi, bhagar, puris, and thalipeeth made from these ingredients are staple items during this festive period.
Daily Influx of Goods:
Market Yard receives a daily influx of 150 to 200 tons of sabudana, which is considered a good supply compared to regular days. Bhagar arrivals have also been steady at around 100 to 150 tons daily.
Prices in the wholesale market are stable for sabudana, while bhagar and peanuts are seeing an increase due to high demand.
Current Wholesale Prices (Per Kg):
Sabudana: ₹68-72
Bhagar: ₹95-110
Peanuts (Spanish): ₹110-120
Peanuts (Ghungroo): ₹105-112