Dhanteras sees Bengalureans shop in droves for all that glitters

Bengaluru: On Dhanteras, the auspicious day that marks the start of Deepavali festivities, Bengalureans flocked to jewellery stores across the city, eager to buy gold and silver on the occasion.The city's markets buzzed with excitement as families, friends, and couples lined up to purchase traditional coins, bars, and jewellery — symbols of prosperity and good fortune. This ritualistic shopping spree brought together people of all ages, drawn to the gleaming displays of gold and silver that marked the celebration of abundance and blessings for the coming year.Tuesday saw huge gold sales at 160 outlets which were part of the Bengaluru Gold Festival (BGF), organised by the Jewellers' Association of Bengaluru, said festival chairman Ramesh Davanam."We must have sold Rs 100 crore worth gold and silver coins alone. With the rising prices of both metals, people are purchasing coins because it's easy to store and be used later," he added.Urish Chhajed, director of Nikhaar Jewels, Richmond Road, told TOI: "While traditionally, Dhanteras shopping picks up in the evening, we noticed people arriving as early as in the morning to begin their purchases."According to Chhajed, the customers ranged from those buying small gold or silver coins to those taking the opportunity to splurge on heavier, more intricate jewellery.V Shridhar, MD of Sree Ram Jewels, Vijayanagar, said, "Customers are buying everything — from lightweight jewellery, which is flying off the shelves, to gold and silver coins. Many already made bookings last week and walked into the store to pick up their items. Compared to last year, we did great with sales."‘Favourite day to buy gold'Aparjita V, a resident of Wilson Garden, said, "Every year, I buy a small gold coin as a symbol of good fortune, and it feels special knowing it connects me to something my family did for generations. This year, I wanted to get something a little different, so I came early to pick out a lightweight gold bracelet. There's something magical about being in the store on Dhanteras."Dhanteras is an auspicious day for married couples, especially newlyweds, said Whitefield resident Vijay Kumar. "This is our first Deepavali together, and Dhanteras is the day my wife, Anjali, and I've been most looking forward to. We're here to pick out a silver idol for our home temple and a couple of gold coins. It's more than just a shopping day; we're beginning to set up a prosperous start to our life together. The atmosphere in the store feels so full of hope and happiness, which is why Dhanteras is our favourite," Vijay said.