The observance of Kartika Masam, a sacred month dedicated to Lord Shiva, has had a pronounced impact on the fisheries sector, with demand for fish and seafood experiencing a sharp decline. This traditional period, marked by abstinence from non-vegetarian foods, has led to a glut in the market and a steep drop in prices.
In seafood markets, the price of Katla fish has fallen drastically, from ₹250 per kilogram to ₹150. Wholesale traders are grappling with excess stock as large supplies of prawns and other fish arrive in the market, overwhelming the limited demand. “The Kartika season always brings a slowdown, but the scale of this year’s surplus has made it particularly difficult,” noted a prawn wholesaler.
Chicken and mutton markets are also feeling the effects of reduced consumer interest, with prices dropping by around 15% compared to the previous month. However, it is the fisheries sector that has borne the brunt, as seafood constitutes a significant portion of non-vegetarian consumption in the region.
To offset the losses, many seafood sellers are lowering prices in an attempt to attract buyers, while some vendors have temporarily scaled back operations. Despite these efforts, weekend footfall at markets has been sparse, reflecting the cultural significance of the month and its influence on consumption patterns.
On a brighter note, this dip in demand has provided an opportunity for seafood enthusiasts to purchase fish and prawns at much lower prices. Restaurants specializing in non-vegetarian cuisine are also introducing special offers to sustain business during this lean period.
As the demand for fish remains subdued, the focus shifts to the resilience of the fisheries sector, which continues to adapt to the seasonal changes dictated by cultural traditions like Kartika Masam.
