The city’s markets are packed as shoppers go on a shopping spree during Dhanteras festivities on Tuesday.

In Hindu belief, Dhanteras is considered an auspicious day for buying jewellery, utensils and other valuable items.

Members of tradesmen and market associations said that the influx to the markets has increased.

They added that customers were confused about the date of Dhanteras, which they said fell on October 29 or 30.

Precious metal prices have risen sharply this season; 22 carat gold increased by 24% and 24 carat gold increased by 21% compared to last year.

Amid these price hikes, local jewelers have noticed a change in buying trends, with many customers opting for gold and silver coins rather than fancy jewelery or idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, he said.

A jeweler on Mall Road said that last year his stocks in Mumbai and Surat were insufficient due to high demand, but this year demand is relatively low. He said the density was expected to increase on Wednesday. Anand Sikri, president of Ludhiana Jewelers Association, emphasized on the impact of high gold and silver prices.

The cost of 24 carat gold is now ₹10 grams is 81,300 and the price of silver ₹1 lakh per kilogram.

Gayatri, a 42-year-old housewife, said she usually buys heavy jewelery on Dhanteras and this year she opted for a 5 gram gold necklace.

There was also an intense influx of customers to shops selling pottery and kitchenware.

The owner of a crockery shop in Jamalpur said customers generally prefer glassware and bone china, but on Dhanteras, they turn more towards traditional items. Makeshift stalls selling earthenware, flowers and decorative items were seen attracting crowds.

Shopkeepers said there was an increase in broom sales. According to a local vendor, the age-old practice is based on the belief that buying a broom on Dhanteras will eliminate poverty and financial troubles.