Mon Sep 01 17:52:19 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text about Onam shopping in Kozhikode, incorporating elements of the provided meta-information:

**The Hindu: Kozhikode Onam Shoppers See Stable Vegetable Prices Amidst Coconut Oil Concerns (Sept 1, 2025)**

**KOZHIKODE:** As Onam approaches, residents of Kozhikode are experiencing mixed fortunes regarding festive shopping. While vegetable prices have remained surprisingly stable in the past week, concerns are rising about the cost of coconut oil and banana leaves.

According to local vendors like Pradeep at Karaparamba, most vegetable prices have held steady, with the exception of tomatoes and beans. This comes as a relief to shoppers preparing for the Onam festivities. However, experts predict this stability may be short-lived. Narayanan Kalpakassery, president of the Farmers’ Apex Council at the Vengeri market, anticipates prices to rise in the days leading up to Thiruvonam, driven by increased demand and the impact of recent heavy rains on local vegetable production. “This will be a welcome sign for farmers” he stated.

The cost of coconut oil is a significant worry for many, like Shibina Manoj from Koyilandy, “One litre of coconut oil costs nearly ₹500. I am sure the price of banana chips will also go up since they are usually prepared in coconut oil.” The state government is attempting to mitigate the impact by offering subsidized coconut oil through Supplyco outlets.

Furthermore, torrential rains have devastated banana crops across the state, forcing reliance on supplies from Thoothukudi. This has led to a dramatic increase in the price of banana leaves. Shamseer K.T., a trader at Kozhikode’s Palayam market, noted, “Two weeks ago, a bundle of 100 leaves cost ₹1,000. Now, it is anywhere between ₹3,000 and ₹4,000.”

The situation presents a complex picture for Onam celebrations in Kozhikode. While some staples remain affordable, the rising cost of coconut oil and banana leaves may impact the overall festive budget for many families. This article is published by The Hindu as part of their continued commitment to local and global news. Stay tuned to this platform for more insights including; “The View From India”, “First Day First Show”, “Today’s Cache”, “Science For All”, “Data Point”, “Health Matters”, and “The Hindu On Books”.

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