Agartala, October 15: As Tripura gears up to celebrate Lakshmi Puja, households in the state’s capital are bustling with preparations to worship the Hindu goddess of wealth, fortune, and prosperity. However, this year’s market scene paints a complex picture.
Markets in Agartala have been flooded with idols of goddess Lakshmi, as devotees gather to purchase idols, fruits, sweets, and other necessary offerings for the puja, traditionally observed on the full moon night following Durga Puja in this region. Unlike in the western parts of India, where Lakshmi is worshipped during Diwali, the festival here comes earlier, adding to the vibrant cultural landscape of Tripura.
Despite the festive atmosphere, many shoppers have voiced concerns over the rising prices of essential items. “The prices are high, but we cannot avoid buying the necessary things. Worshiping Lakshmi with sincerity is believed to bring fortune, so we make the effort despite the cost,” said a devotee at the market.
However, idol sellers report a different side of the story. While the markets appear busy, vendors claim sales have been notably lower compared to previous years. “Even though we are seeing a lot of footfall, the sales haven’t been as high. We are having to reduce prices, and still, it’s not enough to cover the losses,” shared an idol seller in Battala Market.
The drop in demand is attributed by some to the economic impact of the recent floods that affected several parts of the state, disrupting local livelihoods and market stability.
The economic uncertainty has left both buyers and sellers navigating the fine balance between tradition and financial strain.
While consumers are striving to maintain religious observance, merchants are struggling to stay afloat, underscoring the challenges faced by small businesses during the festive season.
The goddess Lakshmi, also known as Shri, remains central to the Hindu faith, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and success. Her worship, believed to bring good fortune, is a deeply ingrained tradition, and despite the hardships, people across Tripura are determined to keep the spirit of Lakshmi Puja alive.
As the festival unfolds, devotees hope that the goddess’s blessings will not only restore prosperity in their homes but also improve the economic situation in the region.
