Pune: In the bustling markets and upscale showrooms of the city, Dhanteras is a mix of ritual and restraint this year. Buyers are opting for lighter jewellery or turning to silver as a more affordable yet auspicious choice with gold prices straining household budgets.Jewellery stores have reported a steady footfall, even though purchases are more measured.Chairman and MD of PNG Jewellers Saurabh Gadgil said the festive season has begun on a positive note, with a steady demand continuing from Dasara. “Customers continue to make confident purchases, viewing precious metals as trusted and long-term assets. Lighter gold and diamond jewellery pieces are moving fastest, along with silver coins and idols. Almost half of our jewellery sales are coming through old gold exchange, as customers trade in what they own to upgrade without overspending.“Director of Ranka Jewellers Vastupal Ranka said, “Dhanteras marks the beginning of a season that welcomes prosperity and new beginnings. Families have chosen the day to invest in jewellery or coins not only as a ritual, but as a lasting commitment to purity and legacy for generations,” he said, urging buyers to focus on hallmarking and craftsmanship to preserve both sentiment and value.Once secondary, silver is enjoying a resurgence. Store shelves glint with silver diyas, bowls and goddess idols — popular among younger buyers seeking meaning over weight.Meanwhile, not all Dhanteras spending is on metal. Vehicle showrooms across the city are seeing brisk business. Viraj Kulkarni, an IT professional of Vimannagar, will take the delivery of his new car on the festival. “We booked it weeks ago, but decided to take the delivery on Dhanteras. My family is planning to click pictures, make videos and put up a whole show when we go to the showroom to bring home the car. It feels like the right way to begin a new chapter.“In Kothrud, homemaker Shefali Joshi has other plans. She and her husband are moving into their new house. “It’s our first home. Gold can wait. Owning this space is wealth enough for us,” she said.Prosperity has taken a practical turn for many. Anasuya Bose from Fatimanagar said, “Gold’s too expensive this year, so I’m investing in something I’ll use every day — an air fryer. It is still a blessing, just a modern one!”The story repeats with variations across Pune — less glitter, more grounding. Whether it’s a silver coin, a new car, a kitchen upgrade or the keys to a new home, Dhanteras remains a celebration of hope. This year, its shine is subtle — but no less sincere.
