Flower and fruit prices soar ahead of Varamahalakshi festival in Bengaluru

Prices for flowers and fruits have surged in Bengaluru ahead of the Varamahalakshmi festival, as demand increases. At the K.R. Market, chrysanthemums are priced between ₹200 and ₹400 per kilogram, roses at ₹300 per kg, jasmine at ₹500 to ₹800 per kg, and kanakambara at ₹3,000 per kg. Lotus stems, traditionally favored by worshippers of Goddess Lakshmi, are expected to cost between ₹50 and ₹100 per stem during the festival.

Mr. Diwakar, a flower merchant, explained the price hike, attributing it to both the festival's significance and the lack of rainfall this year. He noted that flower and fruit prices have risen by ₹50 to ₹100 due to higher demand. Fruit merchants also reported price increases, with apples, bananas, pomegranates, and oranges seeing a price jump. Local customer Ananthnarayan, who purchased fruits and flowers for his wife, said he couldn't resist the festival's lure despite the higher costs.