Shortage Sparks Mango Price Surge in Pune Market ahead of Akshay Tritiya Celebrations

With the traditional practice of purchasing mangoes in abundance during this festive period, Pune residents are facing a challenge as mango rates soar by ₹300 to ₹400 per dozen.

9 May 2024

By Payoshi Bisht

Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej, falls on the third day of the bright half of the Hindu lunar month of Vaishakha. It holds immense importance in Hindu mythology and is believed to be the day when Lord Ganesha began writing the epic Mahabharata to the dictation of sage Vyasa. Additionally, it is considered an auspicious day for weddings, business ventures and investments, as it is believed that any venture started on this day will flourish and bring prosperity. 

One of the highlights of Akshaya Tritiya celebrations is the prominence of mangoes. The mango holds a special place in Indian culture and cuisine. It is not just a fruit but a symbol of abundance, fertility and sweetness. In many regions, the arrival of the first mangoes of the season is celebrated with great joy and reverence. 

The significance of mangoes in Akshaya Tritiya can be traced back to ancient mythology. According to Hindu beliefs, the mango tree is considered sacred and is associated with various gods and goddesses. It is believed that the mango tree originated from the drops of nectar that fell during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) by the gods and demons to obtain the elixir of life (amrita).

As the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritiya approaches, Pune finds itself grappling with a significant shortage in mango supply from the Konkan belt, leading to a surge in mango prices across local markets. 

The vice-chairman of the Pune Market Yard Traders’ Association, voiced concerns over the dwindling supply, attributing the scarcity to a notable drop in mango arrivals from the Konkan region. Kanchi highlighted that while Pune typically witnesses a surge in mango supply during Akshay Tritiya, this year’s scenario differs as the initial batch of mangoes arrived in April itself, leaving a considerable gap in subsequent deliveries.

Previously priced at ₹350 to ₹400 per dozen, mangoes at Pune Market Yard now command rates of ₹850 to ₹900 per dozen, reflecting the impact of the supply shortage on market dynamics. The shortfall in mango arrivals, with only 4,000 boxes daily compared to the previous 8,000 to 10,000, is poised to affect the overall festive mango sales during Akshay Tritiya significantly.

The ripple effect of the shortage is felt not only in wholesale markets but also in retail outlets across the city, where mangoes sourced from Devgad and Ratnagiri are now priced between ₹800 to ₹1,000 per dozen. 

Shrikar Mali, a seasoned mango retailer in Pune, emphasised the unusual nature of this year’s mango season, noting the completion of the first supply in April, much earlier than the customary Akshay Tritiya arrival.

Despite the challenges posed by the shortage, Pune’s residents remain undeterred in their excitement for the upcoming festival. Ankita Sinha, a citizen, expressed the traditional significance of Akshay Tritiya in her family, marking the beginning of the mango-eating season with rituals and offerings to Lord Ganapati.