As Chhath Puja approaches, the markets of Ranchi are witnessing an extraordinary phenomenon – thousands of devotees flooding shopping areas despite facing significantly inflated prices on essential ritual items. The sacred festival, dedicated to the Sun God, continues to draw faithful crowds who prioritize spiritual obligations over financial concerns.
Market Buzz Defies Economic Pressures
The bustling markets of Ranchi, particularly those in Hindpiri, Upper Bazar, and Main Road, are experiencing unprecedented footfall. Shopkeepers report that traditional Chhath items including bamboo baskets, clay pots, sugarcane, fruits, and special sweets are flying off shelves, even with prices reaching new heights.
"The devotion of Chhath Puja devotees knows no monetary boundaries," shares Ramesh Kumar, a veteran shopkeeper in Daily Market. "Despite prices being 20-30% higher than last year, people are buying everything needed for proper rituals without hesitation."
Essential Items See Significant Price Surge
- Bamboo baskets (soop/dala) have jumped from ₹200-250 to ₹300-400
- Clay pots and utensils show 25-40% increase
- Sugarcane prices have risen by 30-35%
- Traditional fruits like bananas and coconuts cost 20% more
- Special Chhath sweets and offerings see 15-25% hike
Devotees Speak: Faith Over Finance
Sunita Devi, who traveled from nearby Namkum with her family, expressed the collective sentiment: "Chhath Puja comes once a year, and we save throughout the year for this occasion. Yes, prices are higher, but we cannot compromise on our traditions and offerings to the Sun God."
Similar feelings echo through the market lanes as families carefully select the finest offerings, determined to maintain the sanctity of their worship despite the additional financial burden.
Shopkeepers Capitalize on Festival Demand
Local vendors and shopkeepers have stocked up extensively, anticipating the four-day festival rush. Many have extended their shop hours and hired additional staff to manage the continuous flow of customers.
"This is our peak business season," explains Priya Singh, who runs a fruit stall in Upper Bazar. "We've been preparing for weeks. The demand is so high that we're struggling to keep some items in stock, despite the increased prices."
Traditional Preparations in Full Swing
The market scenes reflect the deep cultural significance of Chhath Puja in Jharkhand. Women in traditional attire carefully examine each item, ensuring everything meets the strict standards required for the rigorous fasting and water-based rituals.
From selecting the perfect bamboo baskets for offering arghya to choosing the freshest fruits and special thekua sweets, every purchase carries spiritual importance that transcends monetary value.
Community Spirit Shines Through
Amid the commercial activity, heartwarming scenes of community support emerge. Experienced devotees guide first-time observers in selecting appropriate items, while neighbors coordinate group purchases to potentially secure better prices.
The overwhelming market activity demonstrates how traditional festivals like Chhath Puja continue to strengthen community bonds and cultural identity, proving that some values remain priceless regardless of economic fluctuations.
