NEW DELHI — Shoppers packed jewellery stores and bullion markets across India on Friday for Dhanteras, the traditional gold-buying festival two days before Diwali. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) estimated the day's nationwide trade at more than ₹1 lakh crore. Gold and silver accounted for the largest share.

Dhanteras opens the five-day Diwali festival, which culminates in Lakshmi Puja on Sunday, November 8. Hindus consider the day auspicious for buying precious metals, utensils and household goods. Jewellers in Delhi's Karol Bagh and Chandni Chowk, Mumbai's Zaveri Bazaar and Chennai's T Nagar reported queues from early morning.

Trade bodies said high bullion prices had changed how people bought. The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council said customers favoured gold coins, small bars and lightweight pieces over heavy bridal sets. Representatives of the India Bullion and Jewellers Association said silver coins and utensils drew strong demand from buyers priced out of gold.

CAIT said the value of sales had risen on last year's Dhanteras, but jewellers in several cities reported lower gold volumes by weight. Retailers also reported brisk trade in electronics, kitchenware, vehicles and brass idols. Many chains extended opening hours into the night to match the muhurat timings published by temple priests.

The festival rush came as Delhi residents faced worsening air quality ahead of Diwali fireworks. Traders said they expected shopping to continue through the weekend before Sunday's celebrations. Industry bodies said final figures for the full festive season would be released after Bhai Dooj.