Why Have Red Hibiscus Prices Skyrocketed in Kolkata on Kali Puja Festival Day?
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Synopsis
In Kolkata, the price of red hibiscus has dramatically increased, reaching nearly five times its previous value as the Kali Puja festival coincides with Diwali. This surge impacts local vendors and floral rituals significantly. Discover the reasons behind this sudden rise in prices and how it affects the celebration.
Key Takeaways
- Red hibiscus prices have surged due to weather conditions.
- Garlands of 108 and 1,008 pieces are significantly more expensive.
- Local vendors are adapting to market changes.
- Other flowers are also seeing price increases during the festival.
- Festivals greatly influence flower market dynamics.
Kolkata, Oct 20 (NationPress) The price of red hibiscus, a vital element for the Kali Puja festival rituals, has surged nearly fivefold in the retail markets of Kolkata on Monday, coinciding with the auspicious day of Diwali.
A garland comprising 108 pieces of red hibiscus is currently priced between Rs 150 to Rs 200, a significant increase from Rs 25 to Rs 30 just a week earlier.
The cost of a garland containing 1,008 pieces of red hibiscus, typically sold during Kali Puja or special occasions, is now hitting the wallets hard, nearly doubling from last year’s prices.
On Monday, a garland of 1,008 pieces was available for Rs 600 to Rs 700, compared to a maximum price of Rs 350 last year.
In many retail outlets across the city, sellers ceased offering individual red hibiscus flowers on Monday. A local vendor from Gariahat Market indicated that selling individual flowers would incur a loss compared to selling them as garlands, as garland prices include both flower costs and weaving charges.
“Typically, the cost of red hibiscus increases slightly during Kali Puja every year. However, this year’s prices are notably higher due to unforeseen heavy rains before the festive period, which resulted in significant flower stock losses,” remarked a vendor from Kasba Market in South Kolkata.
Notably, the prices of various flowers used in Puja rituals were also exorbitantly elevated in Kolkata on Monday.
For instance, saffron marigold was priced at Rs 180 to Rs 200 per kg, while yellow marigold ranged from Rs 210 to Rs 220 per kg.
A piece of lotus was sold for Rs 20 to Rs 25 on Monday.
Point of View
It is clear that the price hike of red hibiscus during the Kali Puja festival reflects broader agricultural challenges, including weather disruptions. The extraordinary increase in prices underscores the need for effective measures to stabilize flower markets and support local producers during peak festive seasons.
NationPress
20/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are red hibiscus prices so high during Kali Puja?
Prices have surged due to heavy rains affecting flower production, leading to reduced stock availability.
How much has the price of red hibiscus increased?
Prices have increased nearly fivefold compared to the previous week.
What are the current prices of other flowers?
Saffron marigold is priced between Rs 180 to Rs 200 per kg, while yellow marigold ranges from Rs 210 to Rs 220 per kg.
Where can I find red hibiscus garlands in Kolkata?
You can find red hibiscus garlands in various retail markets, notably Gariahat Market and Kasba Market.
What impact does this price rise have on local vendors?
Many vendors are facing challenges as the high prices deter customers, and selling individual flowers is less profitable.
