Festive Shopping Surge: Pune Sees Gold and Electronics Boom

The city of Pune is experiencing a significant surge in consumer spending as families prepare for Dasara, a festival associated with new beginnings and prosperity. Markets and showrooms are bustling with activity as residents indulge in purchasing items ranging from gold jewellery to the latest electronic gadgets. This year, the sentiment is particularly strong among buyers, reflecting a widespread belief that new acquisitions on this auspicious day can invite good fortune.

Jewellery Sales Flourish with Rising Gold Prices

Jewellers across Pune are reporting remarkable sales figures during Dasara. Vastupal Ranka, director of House of Ranka Jewellers, emphasized the strong performance, stating, “Dasara is shaping up to be very strong this year. We’ve seen excellent sales through Navaratra in both bullion coins and jewellery, and buyer sentiment is incredibly positive.”

With gold prices projected to reach ₹1.25 lakh and silver expected to hit ₹2 lakh before Diwali, many customers are opting to buy early. Ranka noted that the market has seen a 60% increase in gold prices and nearly doubled silver prices compared to last year. Demand for gemstones and 14/18 carat jewellery is also on the rise, indicating a robust trend in precious metal acquisitions this festive season.

Saurabh Gadgil, chairman and managing director of PNG Jewellers, echoed Ranka’s observations, highlighting that Dasara is one of the most auspicious days for purchases in the Hindu calendar. “The bullish trend in gold and silver prices has ignited fresh interest in coins and bars, alongside steady traction for diamonds,” he explained. Gadgil noted that lightweight jewellery bookings are encouraging and that the exchange of old gold accounts for nearly half of their sales.

Electronics and Vehicles: A Festive Focus on New Beginnings

Beyond precious metals, consumer electronics showrooms in Pune are witnessing increased foot traffic as shoppers take advantage of the festive season. Sunil Gaikwad, a store manager in Kharadi, shared, “Many customers tell us they specifically wait for Dasara to make significant purchases. We prepare weeks in advance with extra stock and staff, as sales often double compared to an ordinary weekend.”

For many residents, the items purchased during Dasara go beyond mere luxury; they symbolize new beginnings. Vishal Mehta, a resident of Aundh, expressed his excitement about buying a microwave. “Switching it on during Dasara will feel like starting afresh, with blessings for the home,” he said.

Similarly, Meera Joshi from Camp plans to buy a new smartphone, stating, “It’s not just about utility. The day makes it feel more meaningful, as though it carries good luck with it.” The festival’s significance extends to vehicle purchases as well, with many residents timing deliveries to coincide with Dasara.

For instance, Ketaki Deshpande from Kothrud recounted her experience, saying, “We booked our car weeks ago but specifically asked the dealer to deliver it on Dasara. Driving it home today feels like beginning our journey auspiciously.”

Ultimately, the spirit of Dasara is reflected in the vibrant shopping culture of Pune. Purchases made during this festival are more than simple transactions; they embody the rich traditions and hopes for prosperity that define the celebration. As the festival continues, the combination of rising gold prices, a surge in electronic goods sales, and the cultural importance of new purchases ensures a lively atmosphere in the city.