Silver Paranas Swing Into Demand in Surat Ahead of Janmashtami

SURAT : For Surat’s Krishna devotees, Janmashtami is bringing a new kind of sparkle to home temples — silver paranas (cradles) for Nandalala. Jewellers across the diamond city are witnessing strong demand for intricately designed silver cradles ranging from just 11 grams to massive 2 kg pieces, with prices stretching from ₹5,000 to nearly ₹8 lakh.

The trend is being driven by devotees preparing to welcome Bal Gopal home in style, with buyers choosing designs and weights according to their budgets. At the same time, the purchase is increasingly being viewed as an “investment with devotion”, as silver prices have stabilised after recently touching record levels.

Deepak Choksi, owner of D. Khushaldas Jewellers, said customers were showing interest across price segments.

“We have made paranas available in different sizes and designs, from 11 grams to 1.50–2 kg. Prices start at around ₹5,000 and can go up to ₹7–8 lakh. Devotees are happily choosing according to their budget and the size of the Balgopal idol at home,” Choksi said.

Besides the cradles, silver idols of Lord Krishna ranging from around 20 grams to 1 kg are also attracting buyers.

A major attraction this year is the wooden-silver fusion parana, designed to offer a grand appearance without making the product unaffordable for middle-class families. Jewellers are using carved wooden bases with silver work layered over them, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

“The wooden-silver fusion gives devotees the auspicious touch and appearance of silver while keeping the overall cost more manageable. The design is particularly gaining popularity among younger buyers,” Choksi said.

With Janmashtami approaching, jewellery showrooms in Surat are seeing increased footfall and advance bookings. Traders said stable silver prices have encouraged customers to make purchases without waiting for the festival rush.

For many families, the silver parana is therefore more than a festive decoration. It represents a blend of faith, tradition, gifting and long-term value, allowing devotees to celebrate Krishna’s birth while adding a precious-metal asset to their household.