After muted celebrations for the last two years in view of the Covid-19 pandemic, this year Diwali is expected to be extra special. Elaborate decorations of homes, offices and public spaces with traditional clay lamps, paper lanterns, and fairy lights, the bursting of firecrackers, the exchange of gifts with loved ones, purchase of gold and other valuable items, and the preparation of delicacies are essential elements of celebrations. 
  
The popular practice of purchasing gold or other valuable items on the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras has also undergone a shift and soaring prices have dampened consumer mood. 
  
For Girgaon resident Pooja Vanarse, rising prices are casting a long shadow over the festival of lights. Pooja, while talking to Mid-Day, shared how the price rise has affected festival celebrations over the years. 
  
“Yes, the price rise has affected the festival celebrations over the years. From fuel and cooking gas prices to prices of essential commodities such as vegetables are going up without any regulation. It is making daily life more expensive. With salary cuts, there is not much enthusiasm among people for the festivals as the households are finding it difficult to budget resources. Even for gold, it's the same. Not all can afford to buy gold at such a high price,” she said. 

  
Dhanteras and Diwali are around the corner, Pooja wishes to buy some gold jewellery from her savings as it is considered auspicious. “Yes, this year I am planning to buy a gold bracelet for myself. I think it's a good investment as gold prices are always rising,” she said. “Even last year, I bought gold earrings from the money I had saved,” Pooja added.