Demonetisation having an unprecedented effect across the country, those who have save money for kitty gatherings are in fear of losing them with no kitty party being held in the city, post November 8 — the day demonetisation was announced.
Notably, a kitty party is a social gathering, generally of women, though men also contribute monetarily. At these parties, the members contribute a fixed amount that is added to the kitty. There is a lucky draw with the winner taking home the total amount.
Speaking to The Pioneer, a housewife from Govind Puri, Meenakshi Singh said, “I have been contributing to two kitties- one in my name and other in son’s name. But they are all dissolved now. I used to save up to Rs 50,000 a year. But now, things are uncertain.”
Shweta Verma, a working professional, has a similar story to tell. “I have been contributing Rs 1000 every month for a kitty for the past 20 months.
But for the past two months no kitty party has taken place. This is because of the difficulty of converting the huge amount kept aside for them into the new currency notes. I have already contributed Rs 11,000 till date. I am tense over the fate of my money.”
Restaurants based in the city while facing the brunt of things are offering discounts to survive. Manager of a hotel said, “Kitty parties hosted in our restaurants have been substantially reduced. We are offering discounts and have facilities like Paytm. But it is coming to no avail.”