Precious Metals Prices Slide After Dhanteras Buying Frenzy

On October 20, 2025, the prices of gold and silver in India fell sharply after a surge in buying during the Dhanteras festival. The price of 24-karat gold per gram dropped by Rs 13 to Rs 13,069, while 22-karat gold declined by Rs 15 to Rs 11,980. The cost of 18-karat gold per gram also fell by Rs 12 to Rs 9,802.

This price correction came after a massive buying spree on Dhanteras, a Hindu festival celebrated two days before Diwali. In the previous trading session on October 19, 2025, gold prices suffered significant losses, with MCX Gold's December futures contracts crashing by 2% to settle at Rs 1,27,320 per 10 grams. US gold futures also declined over 2% to end at USD 4,213.30 per troy ounce.

The price of gold in major Indian cities on Diwali also saw a decline. In Delhi, the price of 24-karat gold per gram stood at Rs 13,084, while in Bangalore, it was Rs 13,069. In Chennai, the price was Rs 13,004, and in Kolkata, it was Rs 13,069. The prices of 22-karat and 18-karat gold also fell across these cities.

The fluctuations in gold and silver prices are influenced by various factors, including import duties, taxes, exchange rate movements, and global market trends. Despite the recent dip, the significance of precious metals as a hedge against inflation remains culturally embedded and financially important for investors and traders in India.