Citizens turn to silver, cooling appliances amid gold surge this Akshay Tritiya

Pune: Every year on Akshay Tritiya, Pune's shopping carts overflow with more than just tradition. Once dominated by gold purchases, the festival is now seeing a shift as citizens turn to more practical investments to mark the auspicious day.In Maharashtrian homes, it is customary to perform puja with silver or gold coins, offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, and prepare a meal that reflects abundance.However, with gold prices continuing to soar, residents are choosing to invest differently this year. Many are opting for smaller silver items instead of gold."We will buy silver coins and a small idol of Goddess Lakshmi for our home. It fits our budget and still feels festive," said Swapnil Jadhav of Kothrud.Jewellers have noticed the trend and are adapting to meet the changing demand.Saurabh Gadgil, chairman and managing director of PNG Jewellers, said silver is in strong demand, both as an investment and for purchases during auspicious occasions like Akshay Tritiya."Many people buy silver jewellery for its fashion appeal, which is expected to drive sales of fine jewellery. While silver is gaining traction as an investment, gold remains the preferred choice for serious investors. However, we anticipate a surge in interest from younger buyers, including Gen Z and first-time purchasers, who have to buy something on this auspicious day," he said.Retailers across the city are reporting a surge in demand for airconditioners, inverters and coolers as the summer heat peaks."It is the perfect excuse to finally buy that inverter we were delaying buying. If we are meant to make a purchase that brings long-term benefit, this is a good time to think practically," said Rutuja Deshmukh, a resident of Karvenagar.Appliance stores, too, are jumping on the festive bandwagon. "We are offering zero interest EMI and cashback offers on cooling appliances. The response is strong, especially in this high temperature," said Rohan Gaikwad, who manages an electronics showroom in Pimpri."It is not about how much you spend, but the intention with which you buy. This year, we are buying an AC for our home because the heat in the city has become unbearable," said Ravi Gokhale from Baner.Apart from jewellery and high-value purchases, the festival is synonymous with mangoes, especially the beloved haapus.The seasonal staple features prominently in meals as a symbol of sweetness and prosperity."In many Maharashtrian households, we buy the season's first mangoes on Akshay Tritiya. This year, we have ordered mangoes from a local orchard and are looking forward to enjoying the fruit with the family," said Mangesh Satralkar, a resident of Wagholi."For us, Akshay Tritiya is incomplete without mangoes. We will make aamras puri and share it with family and neighbours," said Smita Joshi, a homemaker from Aundh.