Keralam Onam: Rain, early buying subdue Thiruvonam eve shopping rush in Kochi
Heavy rains and early consumer purchasing patterns have resulted in a subdued shopping season for Onam in Kochi. Traders reported lower sales and price fluctuations for essential vegetables compared to previous years.
Why it matters
The report illustrates the impact of climate-related events and changing consumer behavior on local retail economies during major cultural festivals.
Uthrada Pachil — the last‑minute shopping rush on Uthradam day, the eve of Thiruvonam — has been somewhat subdued in Kochi city, Kerala, on Tuesday (August 25, 2026), due to heavy rain since the previous evening and advance purchases by customers keen to avoid last‑minute scrambling and potential price hikes.
In Ernakulam market, business slowed to the extent that traders cut down orders for vegetables from suppliers in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, who largely cater to Onam demand here. Prices of several vegetables dropped compared to the previous day. Bitter gourd fell from ₹95 a kilogram on Monday to ₹65, snake bean from ₹70 to ₹50, and lady’s finger from ₹75 to ₹50.
Hundreds turned up for last-minute Onam shopping at Broadway in Kochi on Uthradam day (August 25). | Photo Credit: H. Vibhu
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