Kochi: What is Onasadya without Payasam? Varieties such as palada, wheat, ada pradhaman, parippu, semiya and banana payasam are seen in the grand finale of feasts and celebrations. 10 lakh liters of payasam is expected to be served in Kerala on Thiruvonam day alone. It amounts to Rs 20 crore approximately. Taking the calculations from Atham day, 50 lakh litres of payasam is expected to be savoured in Kerala. A business worth around Rs 100 crores.
Since Onam is being celebrated after 2 years of Covid crisis, the demand for payasam has seen a rise right from the Atham day. This year better payasam sales was witnessed when compared to previous years, according to the Caterers Association. Half litre and one litre payasams are mostly in demand. Payasams are sold in hotels, catering units, residents' associations and bakeries. Also, various types of payasam are available on the roadside at Rs 30-50 a glass.
Three years back, a litre of payasam costs Rs 220-270. But now, due to inflation, GST and increased costs of food items, the cost of payasams have gone up.
Payasam sales in most of the districts have seen a 20 percent jump in sales. Sales is largely seen in Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts. Even in Malabar regions, the sales has increased. Payasams will be home delivered only to those who have pre-booked orders for Thiruonam day. President of the All Kerala Caterers Association (AKCA) Prince George said that all catering units are well prepared to deal with the huge demand.