Raigad markets see brisk Dussehra buying despite high gold prices

Alibag: Buying something new on the auspicious Dussehra muhurat is considered good. Markets in Raigad showed clear enthusiasm for shopping on Tuesday. Customers crowded showrooms and shops to buy two-wheelers and four-wheelers, gold and silver jewellery, furniture and electronic goods.

Traders said more than 400 two-wheelers and more than 100 four-wheelers were sold in the district in a single day. They estimate that the buying generated business worth crores of rupees in the district.

Gold prices are high, yet customers' desire to buy jewellery remained, which kept the markets buoyant. People had planned in advance to bring something new home on Dussehra. Some customers had booked vehicles in advance, while others thought it right to buy at the time of the muhurat itself.

Vehicle showrooms across Raigad district had crowds of customers from the morning. Two-wheelers from companies such as Honda and Hero were in good demand. Customers also showed interest in four-wheelers, especially cars. Petrol two-wheelers were preferred more. Vehicle makers had offered various discounts to attract customers.

Some customers paid cash for their vehicles, while others took loans. When the new vehicle reached home, it was garlanded and worshipped. Many people photographed themselves with the vehicle, with their families, and shared selfies on social media.

Electronics shops were also crowded. Shopkeepers had offered discounts on televisions, refrigerators, air conditioners and several other electrical appliances. People bought essential items for their homes. Markets showed energy on Dussehra.

Customers also kept coming to the bullion market. The rising price of gold had some effect, but many people bought jewellery of various kinds, big and small, on the auspicious occasion. Customers bought according to their means, so the bullion market too had a festive air.