Flower prices in Udumalpet, Tirupur district, have skyrocketed due to the upcoming Onam festival in Kerala and auspicious events in Tamil Nadu, causing a surge in demand.
Tirupur: The prices of flowers in Udumalpet, Tirupur district, have witnessed a sharp increase ahead of Onam, one of the major festivals of Kerala. The surge in prices is attributed to the high demand for flowers during the festival season and various auspicious events in Tamil Nadu.
The price hike has affected various types of flowers. Jasmine has seen a significant increase from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2,000 per kilogram. Mullai (Arabian Jasmine) prices have risen from Rs. 200 to Rs. 1,000. Sathipoo (Champa) now costs Rs. 600, up from Rs. 300. Sampangi (Magnolia Champaca) has doubled from Rs. 100 to Rs. 200. Kozhikondai (Celosia) prices have increased from Rs. 60 to Rs. 100.
Other flowers have also seen substantial price hikes. Sevvanthi (Chrysanthemum) now costs Rs. 200, up from Rs. 150. Button Rose prices have doubled from Rs. 150 to Rs. 300. Colored Chrysanthemum has seen an increase from Rs. 200 to Rs. 400. A bundle of 20 roses now costs Rs. 300, up from Rs. 160. Panneer Rose (Damask Rose) prices have doubled from Rs. 150 to Rs. 300. Sendu Malli (Marigold) has tripled in price, from Rs. 40 to Rs. 120.
The price surge coincides with not only the Onam festival in Kerala but also with various auspicious events in Tamil Nadu. These events include ear-piercing ceremonies, Seemantham (baby shower), puberty ceremonies, weddings, and house-warming functions, all of which are scheduled to take place tomorrow in large numbers.
Despite the significant price increase, customers were seen queuing up to purchase the fragrant flowers, particularly jasmine, without complaint. The simultaneous occurrence of the festival and auspicious dates has led to an unprecedented demand for flowers, resulting in the steep price hike.