Nagpur: The city slipped into festive overdrive on Akshaya Tritiya, as belief in eternal prosperity translated into bustling markets, packed showrooms, and a late-night buying rush across key commercial hubs in Nagpur.
Regarded as one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar, a “complete muhurat” requiring no specific timing, Akshaya Tritiya drew thousands of residents out to shop, invest, and begin new ventures. From glittering gold counters to automobile showrooms, Nagpur witnessed a surge in consumer activity that kept traders on their toes throughout the day.
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Apr 18 2026 - Time 10.30Hrs
The city’s traditional markets, including Sarafa Oli in Itwari, Mahal market, and Dharampeth’s main stretch, were alive with energy. Jewellery stores saw long queues, while garment shops and retail outlets reported steady footfall as families stepped out for festive purchases. Though the afternoon heat slowed movement briefly, the real momentum built up by evening and continued late into the night.
“Most households complete their pooja rituals in the afternoon. Because of the heat, people preferred shopping in the evening, and the rush continued well past nightfall,” said Rajesh Rokade, President of the All India Gems and Jewellery Domestic Council.
Despite soaring gold prices, touching around Rs 1.54 lakh per tola for 24-carat, demand remained remarkably strong. Traders expect total jewellery sales in Nagpur district to cross Rs 150 crore this year, surpassing last year’s Rs 125 crore mark. “Customers waited for the right moment after pooja and then arrived in large numbers. High prices didn’t deter sentiment,” said a jeweller from Itwari.
Retailers across the city echoed similar enthusiasm. A shop owner from Dharampeth noted a steady stream of families purchasing clothes, gifts, and household items, adding to the festive buzz.
The automobile sector, too, rode the wave of prosperity-driven buying. According to the President of the Vidarbha Automobile Dealers Association, more than 500 four-wheelers were sold across the city, with SUVs dominating demand. “Entry-level cars saw relatively lower traction, while interest in electric vehicles is gradually picking up,” he said. Additionally, around 2,000 two-wheelers were sold, reflecting a strong push towards personal mobility purchases.
Beyond commerce, the day also held deep spiritual significance. Many citizens observed traditional rituals such as annadan, offering food to the needy and elderly, rooted in the belief that acts of charity on this day bring lasting blessings. It is also widely believed that ancestors visit the earth on Akshaya Tritiya, prompting families to perform remembrance rituals.
With faith and festivities seamlessly blending with consumer enthusiasm, Akshaya Tritiya once again proved to be a powerful driver of economic activity in Nagpur, keeping the city vibrant, prosperous, and glowing well into the night.
