The steep ₹993 hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices, coupled with a continuing supply shortage, has hit weddings and large‑scale functions in Bengaluru. Caterers said they are being forced to buy cylinders in the open market for over ₹8,000 — more than 50% above the regular price. A commercial cylinder currently costs ₹3,152.

Caterers said the shortage has disrupted bookings, with several unable to take new orders, while others are asking families hosting weddings and events to arrange cylinders on their own. They said the increased costs have pushed up catering charges by at least ₹120 per plate. While catering rates generally range between ₹150 and ₹200 per plate, the shortage has also led to the catering industry cutting down menu options and reducing at least five to seven items.  

No live counters

Live food counters, which have become common at weddings and events, have been dropped by caterers as they require continuous heating and consume more gas.

Mahesh Reddy, a caterer, said he has scaled down bookings and is now limiting orders to events with fewer than 200 guests. He said there has been an acute shortage of commercial LPG cylinders since March, despite caterers paying higher prices. Several items, including vade, holige and poori, have been temporarily dropped from menus, and the variety of sambars served has also been reduced. “Anything that requires continuous flame or high heat has been removed for now,” he said.

Janardhan P. of Jain Foods said he has stopped accepting fresh orders and is focusing only on events already booked. He said the price hike and supply shortage have affected both caterers and families, with most catering services cutting at least five to eight items from their planned menus. “A few bookings were taken when the commercial cylinder cost around ₹2,000 for weddings that are yet to take place. How much extra can we ask?” he asked.

Association’s help

Caterers said that while the Karnataka Marriage Halls Welfare Association has been helping coordinate cylinder availability and has even permitted the use of wood fire in some cases, it has become increasingly difficult to fulfil orders as planned. They said even after increasing per plate rates, the cost of procuring cylinders at current market prices remains difficult to absorb.

Pratesh Mehta, who booked catering for his brother’s wedding in Jayanagar, said the caterer agreed to take the order only on the condition that the family arranged the cylinders. He said more than 20 cylinders would be required for the function, which is expected to host 600 guests. He added that while the family approached multiple caterers, some quoted rates beyond their budget, while others did not take the booking.