Kolkata’s first-time gold buyers focus on security

Buying gold on Dhanteras isn’t just a tradition for many, but also a means to ensure stability in uncertain times. And for Kolkata’s first-time gold buyers, the priorities aren’t any different. Here’s what they told us about their Dhanteras plans on a year when price of the yellow metal has reached record highs:‘I’ll buy a gold ring with diamonds’For actress Hiya Chatterjee, this is the first Dhanteras since she started working. “For me, investing in health is the topmost priority, but if it comes to financial investments, gold is definitely a great asset. But I have just started working and don’t think I’ll be able to invest much. I’ll probably buy a gold ring with diamonds this Dhanteras. Ma knows a lot more about gold, so any investments I make in the future will definitely be after consulting her,” Hiya told us.‘I’m planning to invest in a gold bar’For lawyer Tiasha Gupta gold symbolises good luck and stability. “Since childhood, I’ve seen my mother save up every year to purchase gold during Dhanteras. I’m planning to invest in a gold bar. I feel gold is tangible, and its price fluctuates in a stable way, hence it feels like a safer and more reliable investment. Of course, I plan to buy under my parents’ supervision as this will be my first big purchase,” she told us.I’ll buy sovereign gold bonds. With bonds, I don’t have to worry about theft, storage, or purity. I also earn an interest and can redeem the actual gold price later. I think that’s smart investing – Soumyojit Mullick, an IT professionalI’ll buy gold as it resists the erosion that fiat currencies often suffer in inflationary environments. In other words, when money loses value, gold can act like a safe harbour – a shield – Pramita Sen, a chartered accountantI don’t believe in collecting a dozen tiny gold trinkets; it should be one bold piece. It isn’t just about adornment, it’s about strength, heritage, & knowing you’re carrying your roots with you – Bitasta Sinha Roy, a model and first-time gold buyerWhat are Kolkata’s first-time gold buyers going for? Online gold or gold bonds Gold coins and gold bars Everyday wear jewellery such as rings and earrings Chunky pieces for investment purposes