The arrival of Navratri brings a vibrant market. However, this also causes onion sales to decline in many cities. In many places, onion consumption is prohibited during Navratri, which could reduce demand.
Navratri 2026: The festival of Navratri is extremely special for devotees of Goddess Durga. As a result, the food and drink habits in many homes change as soon as Navratri begins. Some observe fasts for nine days, while others fast only on the first and last day. Many families also abstain from eating onions and garlic during this period. This could impact onion demand during Navratri. But do you know which states in India are likely to see a decline in onion consumption during this time?
During Navratri, many families abstain from eating onions and garlic and opt for fruit or sattvic food. This could impact onion demand. Purchases may decline, especially in households where onion consumption is completely avoided during Navratri.
In which states may onion consumption decrease during Navratri?
In states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana, onion demand may decline due to families fasting and eating satvik food during Navratri. Religious traditions associated with Navratri in these states require many people to abstain from onion and garlic for nine days. However, this does not mean that onion consumption decreases across the state. Many families continue to eat normal meals, and overall onion demand is also influenced by market supply, prices, and other needs.
Top 5 states in terms of annual onion consumption
According to the available data of the Central Government regarding domestic consumption for the year 2022-23, these five states are included in terms of annual consumption of onion.
- Uttar Pradesh: 27.64 lakh metric tonnes
- Bihar: 20.88 lakh metric tonnes
- Maharashtra: 17.13 lakh metric tonnes
- Tamil Nadu: 14.32 lakh metric tonnes
- West Bengal: 14.23 lakh metric tonnes
Does Navratri also affect onion prices?
Decreased onion purchases by some families during Navratri may impact demand in local markets. However, onion prices aren’t determined solely by the festival. The amount of onion arriving in the markets, the condition of the crop, the storage capacity, and demand from other states all influence the price.
How much does it affect the onion business?
Some families reduce their consumption of onions during Navratri or avoid them altogether. However, the impact this has on onion prices and overall sales depends on several factors: the amount of onions arriving in the market, their storage, the weather , and the demand in other cities all play a role.
