Secunderabad:
On the occasion of Makar Sankranti and Pongal today, people have little to cheer about as inflation and spiralling food prices particularly, are taking a toll on the common man's budget.
At the Monda market in Secunderabad, people shopping for Makar Sankranti say they are thinking twice before spending every single rupee.
"There is at least 25 per cent price rise in the commodities that we are purchasing. For a common man, it is very tough. Everyone has to think twice before celebrating Sankranti or any other festival,'' says Harsha, a customer.
Many customers also admit the guest list has been pruned drastically this Makar Sankranti.
"During festivals, we visit each others' homes, arrange lunch and dinner but we are not able to afford it now,'' says a local resident.
"The prices of tur dal have doubled. It was around 40-45 rupees two years back, now it has gone to 80-85 rupees. No festival can be celebrated because of high prices,'' another one adds.
The only good cheer is at the government-owned rythu bazaars where for only for Rs 99, you get one kg each of tomato, potato, brinjal, cauliflower, cabbage and carrot and 2 kg of onions.