Unseasonal rains escalate marigold prices amid Lakshmi Puja

Nashik: Unseasonal rains have severely damaged marigold crops in Nashik and its surrounding areas. As per the information from the farmers in the district, around 70–75% of the plants were damaged. In fact, the crop loss will certainly increase the price of marigolds during the festive season, especially for Lakshmi Puja; both farmers and local flower market traders are saying the same.

Prakash Prav is not far away. Only a few days left for this festival, which is celebrated with gaiety in Nashik and other regions. Currently, massive turnout could be seen in the market because customers usually buy new clothes, home decor, vehicles, Diwali snacks, and so on. Despite the heavy rush, the faces of flower farmers are fading due to the drop in marigold production caused by bad weather and consistent rains.

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At present, marigold is coming to the market, but in low quantity, with crates selling at Rs 250 to Rs 300 each. However, as demand is expected to go owing to the upcoming Lakshmi Puja, it is expected that prices could reach as high as Rs 500 per crate.

This year’s marigold production was limited due to uncertain weather and lower income from previous seasons. “Around 70 to 75 percent of our marigold crop was damaged last week,” said Sadashiv Mehndale, a local farmer. “We expect the prices to increase for Lakshmi Puja.” Farmers hope for good prices to balance their losses