Chadakhai Turns Odisha’s Non-Veg Markets into Festive Hotspots
Bhubaneswar, Nov 7: Odisha’s non-veg markets witnessed an extraordinary surge in footfall today as Chadakhai celebrations kicked off across the state. From Bhubaneswar to Cuttack, early morning crowds flooded fish and meat stalls, turning regular markets into festive hubs.
Rohi fish sold between Rs 200–Rs250/kg, while premium varieties like Hilsa touched Rs 1800/kg. Crabs fetched Rs 1200/kg, and mutton prices ranged from Rs 750 to Rs 900/kg depending on location.
Chicken saw brisk sales too, with broiler priced at Rs 240/kg, Banaraj at Rs 300/kg, and desi chicken reaching Rs 500/kg.
Vendors reported record sales, estimating over Rs 2.5 crore in fish, prawns, and crabs alone. Mutton sales are expected to cross Rs 4 crore, with Bhubaneswar alone consuming 2000 kg of goat meat and 50 quintals of chicken.
Supply chains were stretched to meet demand. Around 70% of goats came from West Bengal, while Odisha districts like Balangir and Nayagarh contributed the rest. Chicken was sourced from Andhra Pradesh, Pipili, and Baripada.
According to Sheikh Muntakim Bux, President of the All Odisha Non-Veg Traders Federation, “Chadakhai is the biggest day for meat traders. We expect total sales to cross Rs 7 crore this year.”
With weddings and weekend feasts adding to the frenzy, Chadakhai 2025 has reaffirmed its status as the grand festival of Odisha’s non-veg economy.
