NEW DELHI — Indian jewellers reported a sharp early rise in festive gold buying on Sunday as the north Indian wedding and festival season gathered pace ahead of Karwa Chauth and Diwali, according to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association.

The surge came despite gold trading near record highs. Retailers in Delhi, Lucknow and Varanasi said customers were advancing purchases to lock in prices before Dhanteras, while the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council reported that weekend footfall exceeded the same period last year.

Demand was concentrated on lightweight jewellery and coins as buyers adjusted budgets to cope with elevated prices. In Uttar Pradesh, where Vishwakarma Puja and other seasonal observances have drawn crowds, gold and silver coin sales were particularly strong among traders and small businesses.

The buying pattern reflects a longstanding cultural association between gold and auspicious occasions in India, where the metal is considered a symbol of prosperity during the festival months. Trade officials cautioned that final Diwali-season sales would depend on price movements over the coming weeks.

A spokesperson for the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council said sentiment remained positive despite the price pressure. "Consumers are buying smaller quantities but the number of buyers is up. Weddings and festivals ensure gold demand holds even at these levels," the spokesperson said.