Despite the festive season, inflation has severely impacted household budgets in Bihar. Families preparing for major festivals like Sharadiya Navratri, Diwali, and Chhath are grappling with increased prices for everything from kitchen staples to clothing. Surprisingly, rural areas have recorded a higher inflation rate compared to urban centers.

According to government data, the retail inflation rate in rural areas was 6.08% in September, up from 5.24% in August. In contrast, urban areas saw a retail inflation rate of 4.88% in September, compared to 4.31% in August. The situation is worse in villages regarding food inflation, with the rural food inflation rate recorded at 8.06%, while urban areas stood at 7.18%.

This inflation directly affects the monthly budgets of common families. Prices of rice, pulses, flour, and vegetables are skyrocketing. Retailers report that rice, which cost around ₹20 per kg last year, has now reached up to ₹45 per kg. Onion prices have also surged from ₹10-20 to ₹55-60 per kg in the last six months.

Women shopping at Patna's grain market expressed that all prices have risen, severely impacting their kitchen budgets. Homemakers are forced to reduce the quantity of vegetables like onions, garlic, and ginger or seek alternatives. Besides groceries, they also have to manage house rent, children's education, electricity bills, and medical expenses, leaving less money for other essential needs due to increased kitchen spending.

Inflation is not only affecting consumers but also small businesses and shopkeepers. According to onion trader Laxman Kumar, customers are buying smaller quantities due to price hikes, which is hurting sales. Despite the anticipated increase in demand during Diwali and Chhath, the pressure of rising prices is a growing concern for traders, dimming the festive cheer.