Udupi : Shankarapura Mallige (jasmine), cultivated by thousands of farmers in Udupi district, are in distress following the lockdown and lack of demand for flowers.

Known for its fragrance, the jasmine is used in marriages, decorations, temples, production of perfumes and incense sticks. Though the flower has gained a wide market in the West Asian region as well as in Mumbai, Pune and Bengaluru, tthe lockdown has put an end to the market.

On an average, a `chendu’ (a set of flowers tied by a string, normally around 800 flowers) of Shankarapura Mallige was fetching a good price between March and May. An Atti (four chendus make one atti) jasmine normally fetches Rs 400 to Rs 800. During the auspicious days, it fetches even Rs 1,250 as well.

“The rates of Shankarapura Mallige had declined from March 20 after the authorities laid restrictions for large gatherings, temple fairs and the sale completely stopped from March 23. An atti of jasmine was sold for Rs 600 before March 20 and the price declined to Rs 150 on March 21,”