This year's Akshaya Tritiya saw a significant 30% drop in gold demand volume compared to last year, attributed to a nearly 60% price increase. Gold was priced at ₹1,51,650 per 10 grams, leading buyers to opt for lighter jewellery and smaller coins. Despite the volume drop, value demand rose by 20-25%, indicating a shift in purchasing behavior. Buyers, particularly millennials, preferred solitaires in the ₹75,000-2.5 lakh range. Retailers like CaratLane and Kalyan Jewellers noted that demand remains strong, especially for design-led pieces. The festival, which is one of the most auspicious days for purchasing gold in India, saw South India leading sales with 40% of the national total. Additionally, 40-50% of sales came from exchanges of old gold, reflecting a trend towards upgrading existing jewellery. Retailers are optimistic about demand momentum continuing due to the two-day Muhurat this year.