People across Tripura are celebrating the traditional Bengali festival, Jamai Shasthi today even as new sons-in-law will miss their first-ever Jamai Shasthi owing to the influence of inauspicious ‘Mal Maas’ which traders claimed seriously affected already dampened & rain-hit local markets.
Quick Glance
- Jamai Shasthi celebrations start today in Agartala and other Tripura markets.
- Mal Maas affects the traditional first Jamai Shasthi celebration for newly married sons-in-law.
- Rain and cloudy weather reduce customer movement and market sales.
- Traders remain hopeful about last-minute festival shopping.
Agartala: The Jamai Shasthi 2026 celebrations have started across Tripura since morning. Womenfolk are blowing conch shells along with ululation (Ulu Dhavani) and performing welcoming rituals associated with Jamai Shasthi for prosperity of the couples. However, this year’s celebration comes with an unusual twist. Many newly married sons-in-law, who were eagerly waiting for their first Jamai Shasthi celebration, will have to wait another year.
The reason is Mal Maas, a special period in the Bengali calendar when many families avoid certain traditional ceremonies. As a result, the much-awaited first Jamai Shasthi rituals for new sons-in-law have been skipped in several households.
For many newly married sons-in-law, the festival is usually a special occasion. It brings family gatherings, traditional food, gifts and blessings from their in-laws. This year, however, the calendar has changed their plans.
At the same time, markets in Agartala, the capital city of Tripura, geared up for the festival. Shopkeepers decorated their stalls with puja essentials and seasonal items to attract customers.
Agartala Markets Wear Festive Look Ahead of Jamai Shasthi
Major markets in Agartala and other parts of Tripura were filled with festival-related products on June 19. Traders arranged stalls with items required for Shasthi Puja.
The list includes:
- Karmacha (a traditional fruit used during the ritual)
- Flowers
- Durba grass
- Bel leaves
- Mangoes
- Litchis
- Other seasonal fruits
- Puja materials
The colourful market displays have created a festive atmosphere. Families have started purchasing items for the traditional celebration.
However, traders said the business response has remained below expectations.
Rain Slows Shopping Rush Before Festival
According to sellers, continuous cloudy weather and occasional rainfall have affected customer movement. Many people have avoided visiting markets due to uncertain weather conditions.
Traders expected a strong shopping rush on the last day of the Jamai Shasthi. They hoped families would purchase gifts, fruits and puja materials in large numbers.
But the rain has reduced the number of buyers.
The situation has created concern among small traders and vendors who depend on festival seasons for better earnings. On the day of the celebrations of which feast is a big part, local fish markets witnessed no extra activities even as sellers stored a good quantity of ‘Ilish Mach’.
Mal Maas Changes Plans for New Sons-in-Law
The biggest change this year comes from the influence of Mal Maas.
Traditionally, the first Jamai Shasthi after marriage holds special importance. Families often arrange grand celebrations for the new son-in-law. The occasion becomes a memorable milestone for both families.
However, due to Mal Maas, many families are not following this custom this year.
This has reduced additional purchases linked with newly married sons-in-law. Traders believe this has directly affected sales of gifts, special food items and festival arrangements.
Prices Remain Stable, Giving Relief to Customers
Despite concerns over sales, customers have received some relief. Prices of most Jamai Shasthi-related items have remained stable.
Essential puja materials like flowers, durba, bel leaves and karmacha are still available at reasonable prices.
Traders said there has been no major price rise this year. This has helped families manage their festival preparations without much additional pressure.
Traders Hoped for Last-Minute Shopping Revival
Despite the slow start, sellers did not lose hope. They believed that the final hours before Jamai Shasthi may bring more customers to the markets.
If weather conditions improve, families may step out for last-minute purchases. This could provide a boost to small businesses and local vendors.
The festival spirit remains visible across Tripura. Markets are decorated, sellers are ready and families are preparing for the traditional celebration.
However, this year’s Jamai Shasthi carries a mixed mood. While Mal Maas has disappointed some new sons-in-law waiting for their special debut and rain has affected business, traders continue to expect a better finish.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
Q1. When is Jamai Shasthi celebrated in 2026?
Jamai Shasthi is being observed on June 20, 2026, according to the Bengali calendar.
Q2. Why are some new sons-in-law not celebrating their first Jamai Shasthi this year?
Many families are avoiding the tradition due to Mal Maas in the Bengali calendar.
Q3. How has weather affected Jamai Shasthi shopping in Tripura?
Rain and cloudy weather have reduced customer visits and slowed market sales.