Bajpe: A large variety of fruits were seen at the weekly market held every Monday in Bajpe.

Different varieties of mangoes, papaya, butter fruit, pomegranate, dragon fruit, banana, papaya, grapes, jamun, chikoo and watermelon were seen in heaps, making the market colourful.

The strategy of attracting customers with competitive prices, different styles of calling out and mimicry performances by vendors also drew attention. Mango varieties like Mallika, Kesar, Alphonso, Neelam, Badami, Banganapalli and Totapuri were prominently seen in the market. Mallika mangoes were sold at Rs 100 per kg, Kesar at Rs 140, Alphonso at Rs 140, while Neelam, Badami and Totapuri were being sold at one-and-a-half kg for Rs 100.

Reason for price drop:

Traders said mango prices have slightly reduced due to rainfall. A large quantity of mangoes arriving in the market at the same time and some people avoiding fruits during the rainy season are said to be the reasons for the fall in prices. Some people also believe that eating mangoes during the rains may cause fever or worms in the fruit.

Pineapples from Alangar in the market:

This time, pineapples from Alangar in Moodbidri arrived in large quantities at the market. Competition among traders was also seen here. Pineapples were being sold at two, three and four fruits for Rs 100. Jackfruit was sold at Rs 30 per kg and was also available in cut pieces.

Vegetable prices:

Locally grown vegetables like basale, harive, brinjal and tindora were also available in the market. Basale and harive bundles were sold at Rs 60, ridge gourd at Rs 100 per kg, yam at Rs 80, local thorn cucumber at Rs 150, ladies finger at Rs 160 and tindora at Rs 100. Tomato prices saw a slight rise and were sold at Rs 50, while garlic was sold between Rs 200 and Rs 240 per kg. Drumsticks were available in large quantities, leading to a fall in prices.