The ongoing coconut shortage is affecting religious practices, as devotees at major temples across the country have begun to limit their customary coconut offerings. Traditionally thrown or included in puja pots during rituals, coconuts are now becoming a rare sight at temple ceremonies.
Devotees visiting temples have expressed difficulty in affording coconuts due to skyrocketing prices and supply shortages. The cost of puja pots, typically containing a coconut along with other ritual items, has also seen a sharp increase, discouraging many from making full offerings.
Temple authorities and devotees alike have acknowledged the impact, noting that the spiritual and cultural traditions tied to coconut offerings are being disrupted. Some have started offering alternative symbolic items, while others await solutions to ease the crisis.
The coconut shortage, driven by local supply chain issues and compounded by global demand, continues to challenge both households and sacred institutions alike.
