Ahmedabad: Gold demand during Akha Trij is expected to remain subdued this year, with jewellers anticipating significantly lower sales compared to 2025, as high prices and cautious consumer sentiment weigh on purchases. According to trade estimates by India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), gold sales in Ahmedabad touched around 50kg during the festival last year. This year, however, the figure is likely to drop to 30-40 kg, indicating a sharp decline in muhurat and sentiment-driven buying.This is the second year in a row that gold sales are expected to remain below 100kg in Ahmedabad on Akha Trij on April 19. Industry players say advance bookings, which are typically a strong indicator of Akha Trij demand, have remained weak.“Bookings are hardly there for jewellery or bullion, so we do not anticipate much demand. Even the demand for silver is muted. Cautious spending is clearly visible, and that reflects the sentiment,” said Hemant Choksi, general secretary of Manek Chowk Choksi Mahajan. The softness in demand comes despite the festival’s cultural significance as an auspicious day for gold purchases. Jewellers noted that high prices have dampened consumer enthusiasm. Gold is currently trading at around Rs 1.55 lakh per 10 grams (plus GST), with prices rising sharply over the past few days. “The demand is barely 15%-20% of the normal level at present. Prices are still high, and sentiment is poor. Consumers are not ready to spend on luxury commodities, while investors remain in a wait-and-watch mode,” said Ahmedabad-based jeweller Manoj Soni. He added that volatility across asset classes — including equities and real estate — has further impacted buying decisions. Echoing similar concerns, Haresh Acharya, director, IBJA, said, “Investment demand has slowed amid uncertain market trends. The stock market is showing a zig-zag pattern, and globally too there is volatility. We expect around 40kg of sales,” he said. Jewellers across the city will keep shops open on Sunday for the occasion, but footfall is expected to remain tepid. With incomes under pressure and discretionary spending tightening, Akha Trij this year may fall short of its usual sparkle, signalling a broader pause in gold consumption.
