Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Massive shopping was witnessed across India this year on Dhanteras, with total trade estimated to have crossed Rs 1 lakh crore, marking one of the strongest festive seasons in recent years, according to the authorities. Praveen Khandelwal, National General Secretary of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) and Member of Parliament from Chandni Chowk, said that Dhanteras marks the appearance of Lord Dhanvantari with a pot of nectar during the churning of the ocean, symbolising health and prosperity. “The total trade in gold, silver, and other Dhanteras-related items across the country is estimated to be worth Rs 1 lakh crore,” Khandelwal said.
Gold and silver alone accounted for more than Rs 60,000 crore in sales, while Delhi markets registered transactions exceeding Rs 10,000 crore as demand for indigenous products surged. Pankaj Arora, National President of CAIT and the All India Jewellers and Goldsmiths Federation (AIJGF), stated that based on the heavy customer turnout over the past two days, the turnover of gold and silver jewellery, coins, and related items nationwide crossed Rs 60,000 crore. “In Delhi alone, trade exceeded Rs 10,000 crore, marking a 25 per cent rise compared to last year,” he said.
Last Diwali, gold prices were around Rs 80,000 per 10 grams, while this year they surged to over Rs 1,30,000 — an increase of nearly 60 per cent. Silver prices also rose sharply from Rs 98,000 per kilogram in 2024 to more than Rs 1,80,000, an increase of about 55 per cent. Despite the steep prices, investors continued to buy gold and silver as safe assets, while regular buyers preferred lightweight jewellery. Khandelwal noted that buying new utensils made of copper, silver, or steel and other kitchen items is considered auspicious, symbolising prosperity and purity.
