How inflation pinches Mumbaikars’ pockets this Navratri 2024

As the festive season of Navratri 2024 approaches, Mumbaikars eagerly anticipate the vibrancy of dandiya nights, grand celebrations, and the traditional rituals that bring families and communities together. However, the joyous mood is somewhat dampened by the sharp sting of inflation. For many, rising costs are affecting everything from groceries to travel, making it harder to fully enjoy the festive spirit without feeling the pinch in their wallets.

Food costs skyrocketing

The impact of inflation is particularly evident in the markets. Vegetables, fruits, grains, and other essential items that are a big part of Navratri celebrations have seen a significant price hike. The price of staple ingredients like onions and tomatoes has surged, affecting home-cooked meals and the food served during community gatherings.

Shraddha K, a homemaker from Dadar shared, "The cost of basic groceries has doubled this year. Even making a simple prasad is becoming expensive. We have to cut back on other expenses just to manage the basics."

Fasting foods become costly

Navratri is synonymous with fasting, and special ingredients like singhara (water chestnut flour), kuttu (buckwheat flour), and sabudana (tapioca) are essential fasting recipes. However, the cost of these items has skyrocketed, putting an additional burden on families who observe the fast.

A vendor from Crawford Market mentioned, "Wholesale prices for fasting foods have surged by 20-30%, which is impacting retail costs as well. Fasting, traditionally a period of devotion, is now turning into a financial burden."

Travel and fuel prices

As families travel to meet relatives and visit temples across Mumbai, the high cost of fuel adds another layer of financial strain. The cost of petrol and diesel has seen a consistent rise, leading to higher transportation expenses. Auto rickshaw and taxi fares have also been adjusted, further increasing the overall cost of celebrating Navratri across the city.

"The inflation is affecting everyone. In recent years, meeting daily expenses has been a challenge. Inflation has affected even our festive celebrations. In the past, we used to take a day trip to Shirdi every Navratri, but this year we've had to reconsider due to rising fuel prices. It's not just the cost of travel - everything along the way has become more expensive," lamented the Pawaskar family from Mulund.

Shopping and apparel woes

Navratri shopping, which typically includes purchasing new ethnic outfits and accessories, has also become a more expensive affair. Many families are finding it difficult to manage their festive shopping due to higher prices in clothing, especially for traditional attire.

A boutique owner in Colaba explained, "The cost of fabric has increased due to inflation, so we have to raise our prices too. Unfortunately, many customers are either cutting down on their purchases or opting for cheaper alternatives."

Dandiya events hit by high prices

Dandiya nights are among the most anticipated highlights of Navratri 2024. However, increasing costs are also impacting the event organisers. The price of renting venues, paying for sound and light systems, and arranging the decorations has increased, leading to higher ticket prices for participants. Many Mumbaikars are finding it difficult to attend multiple dandiya events this year.

Parth Kanojiya, a final-year student from Andheri, shared, "When we were kids, our parents would take us to dandiya events, and I recall that most of them were free. As we grew older, these events started charging entry fees. My friends and I used to attend three or four dandiya events each year, but now we limit ourselves to just one because the ticket prices have become too high. We'd rather save that money for other expenses."

Coping strategies

To deal with the burden of inflation, many Mumbaikars are making adjustments. Families are opting for more intimate celebrations at home, while some are cutting down on non-essential purchases or choosing budget-friendly alternatives for travel and shopping.

Tushar Shah, a Ghatkopar resident, stated, "In recent years, celebrating festivals has become difficult due to rising prices and inflation. This year, to make the most of Navratri, we're sticking to a tighter budget. Rather than attending large dandiya events, we're hosting smaller gatherings with friends and family at home."

Despite the pinch of inflation, the spirit of Navratri 2024 remains undeterred. Mumbaikars are adapting to the rising costs with resilience, ensuring that the essence of celebration and devotion continues. However, inflation is reshaping the way the festival is experienced this year, making it a more modest and conscious celebration.

As one Mumbaikar aptly puts it, "Navratri is about devotion and togetherness. Even if prices rise, we'll find ways to keep the spirit alive, because festivals are more than just material things - they are about the bonds we share."