Gold rush in Chandigarh as drop in prices boost Dhanteras sales

The current gold prices in Chandigarh have reignited enthusiasm among jewellers during the auspicious Dhanteras festival. After a year of fluctuating rates, 22-carat gold is now available for roughly Rs 1,33,900 per 10 grams, down from the previous festive season's price of around Rs 1.66 lakh. Rajeev Sahadev, president of the Chandigarh Jewellers Association, noted a 30 per cent rise in gold sales compared to last Dhanteras, attributing the surge to the more affordable prices.

The current gold rates for 24-carat, 22-carat, 18-carat, and 14-carat were Rs 1,45,600, Rs 1,33,900, Rs 1,11,000, and Rs 87,600 per 10 grams respectively. Silver was priced at Rs 192 per gram, while a silver coin (sikka) was offered at Rs 2,300. Buyers took advantage of these lower rates to either celebrate the festival or make long-term investments.

Ranjeet, a local resident, explained that purchasing gold coins on Dhanteras was a wise move due to the reduced prices. He felt that buying gold represented a secure long-term investment. Many customers, seeking to avoid the high costs of gold from previous years, chose to buy gold jewellery or coins during Dhanteras. Jewellers observed a mix of traditional festive purchases and a shift towards treating gold as a valuable asset for the future.