Chandigarh, Oct. 28 -- A jalebi stall that earlier rented for Rs.50,000 to Rs.1 lakh at the National Crafts Mela in Kalagram has fetched a jaw-dropping Rs.8 lakh this year. The 10-day craft mela is set to begin on November 28, jointly organised by the UT department of cultural affairs and the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC).

On Monday, bidding for 20 food stalls was held with a reserve price of Rs.50,000 each. The record-breaking bids have sparked concern over soaring prices and potential decline in quality, as vendors aim to recover their heavy investments and still make profits.

The Rajasthani food stall went for Rs.7 lakh, the Punjabi food stall fetched Rs.6.10 lakh, while the Gujarati food stall was the lowest at Rs.1.90 lakh. Due...