Planning to buy flowers for the pooja? Prices are sky-high in Madurai!

With Ayudha Pooja and Vijayadashami just around the corner, flower prices have surged significantly in Madurai’s markets. Jasmine flowers, in particular, are being sold at rates ranging from ₹1000 to ₹1500 per kilogram.

The Integrated Flower Market near MGR Bus Stand in Mattuthavani is abuzz with activity. Flowers grown in various parts of Madurai district – including Vadipatti, Alanganallur, Chozhavandan, Usilampatti, Valayankulam, and Nilaiyur – are brought here for wholesale trade. Additionally, flowers are sourced from neighboring districts like Virudhunagar, Dindigul, Theni, Sivaganga, and Ramanathapuram.

Madurai’s jasmine flowers are not just popular locally – they are also exported to other Indian states and countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Dubai. Due to their superior fragrance and quality, Madurai jasmine has earned the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Indian government.

In view of the upcoming festivals, jasmine flowers are being sold at ₹1000 per kilo, while prices of other flowers have also seen a noticeable spike.

Current Flower Prices (Per Kilogram/Piece):

Jasmine: ₹1000 – ₹1500
Pitchi: ₹600
Mullai: ₹700
Sevvanthi (Chrysanthemum): ₹220
Sambangi: ₹200
Scented Jasmine (Scent Malli): ₹60
Kanakambaram: ₹1200
Rose: ₹250
Button Rose: ₹280
Paneer Rose: ₹300
Kozhikondai: ₹80
Arali: ₹500
Marikozhundhu: ₹80
Lotus (per flower): ₹25

Murugan, Treasurer of the Meenakshi Wholesale Flower Traders Association at Mattuthavani, said:

“The jasmine supply is moderate. Today alone, around 2.5 to 3 tonnes of flowers are expected to be sold. With Ayudha Pooja and Vijayadashami celebrations, the demand has surged, and prices have followed. Both the public and small-scale vendors are purchasing flowers in large quantities.”

Summary:

As the festive season draws near, the demand for flowers in Madurai has skyrocketed, leading to a sharp rise in prices. Traders note that if the current trend continues, flower prices may climb even higher in the coming days.