The Onam festival in India leads to a massive increase in demand for flowers at the Thovalai flower market in Kanniyakumari resulting in the prices of fragrant flowers going to the sky.
In the period of the Onam festival in India, the Thovalai flower market in Kanniyakumari has experienced a skyrocketing of prices due to an exceptional demand for flowers. Customers came from not only Kerala but also the whole district and crowded the market to pick up fresh flowers for their festivals.
There was such a demand for delicious smelling Malli and Pitchi flowers that the prices went through the roof and it was hard to keep up with them. 900 Rs per kilogram and 1000 Rs per kilogram were the prices of Malli and Pitchi respectively. Red and yellow Kenthi flowers were sold for 100 Rs. per kg, Vadamullai at 350 Rs., and roses at 200 Rs.
Heavy Footfall and Supply Surge
Known for the pollen of Thovalai, the attendance of the buyers was surprisingly large this year. According to the information from the traders, flowers have been delivered from Salem, Hosur, Rayagiri, Dharmapuri, and the farms located around Thovalai. More than 100 vehicles were used to transport flowers to Kerala only.
According to the statement of S Krishna Kumar, a local flower seller, the Onam festival this year attracted the buyers in a big way. Both small traders and individual buyers, who packed the market, stimulated sales to record levels.
Price Trends and Market Insights
The climb in prices seen during the Onam festival underlines festival-driven demand as well as limited supply in peak season. Malli and Pitchi, stated as the most selective flowers, got the largest jump in prices, whereas those in the group of commonly used ones, e.g., Kenthi, experienced only moderate increasings.
Their opinion is that the Onam festival never fails to keep the flower market prices high during the short-term as floral decoration is a very popular tradition not only in households but also in public places in Kerala.
Impact on Local Economy
The festival-related demand for flowers not only makes farmers in Tamil Nadu happy but also local traders who get a sudden increase in their daily sales volume. The economic chain reaction also includes transporters, wholesale dealers, and vendors in any place of Kanniyakumari and neighboring districts.
Consumer Behavior and Festival Significance
Onam festival, flowers are not only used as a symbol of beauty but also hold a symbolic value. Consumers purchase a wide variety of flowers to make the traditional Pookalam arrangements and decorate their homes and places of worship. Such hectic purchasing activity results in increased retail flower prices, especially during the festival, reflecting the festival’s economic significance.
Looking Ahead
The Onam festival will continue to be the main factor of flower demand in the market according to experts and the prices of flowers will stay high until the festival ends. Producers and sellers are expected to play the role of balancing supply and market demand in the future through timely and effective planning.
FAQ’s
Why do flower prices rise during Onam?
Flower prices shoot up during Onam because of heavy demand for Pookalam decorations in homes and temples, while supply struggles to keep pace with festival needs.
Which flowers saw the biggest price jump this Onam?
Malli (₹900/kg) and Pitchi (₹1,000/kg) saw the steepest price hikes, while roses, Kenthi, and Vadamullai also became costlier.
Where do flowers for Onam celebrations come from?
Apart from local Thovalai farms, flowers are sourced from Salem, Hosur, Rayagiri, and Dharmapuri, with over 100 trucks supplying Kerala alone.
How does Onam flower demand affect traders and farmers?
The surge in sales boosts incomes for farmers, traders, transporters, and vendors, creating a strong short-term economic impact in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
What role do flowers play in the Onam festival?
Flowers are central to Pookalam (floral rangoli) making, symbolizing prosperity and tradition. Almost every household in Kerala buys flowers in bulk for the festival.
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