Puffed rice production is in full swing in Dindigul ahead of Ayudha Puja next week, with manufacturers preparing more than 30 tonnes to meet festive demand. However, a shortage of rice used in production has pushed up prices.
A 100-litre sack of puffed rice, which sold for ₹380 last year, now costs ₹470 — an increase of ₹90. Manufacturers say prices could rise further if the shortage continues.
Ayudha Puja is celebrated in honour of machines, tools and vehicles used in daily life. Puffed rice, roasted gram, coconuts and bananas are commonly offered during rituals to mark the festival.
While rice was traditionally roasted over a fire, production has increasingly shifted to machinery over the past decade.
Rice is sourced from Karnataka and West Bengal at ₹45 a kg and transported to Dindigul. It is soaked in salted water, processed and dried before being roasted to make puffed rice.
More than 30 tonnes have been produced for this year’s festival, with production continuing round the clock. Despite the shortage of raw material, manufacturers are producing an average of two tonnes a day.
Last year, the rice used for production cost ₹38 a kg. The price has now risen to ₹45, and supplies remain difficult to obtain even at the higher rate.
