What do "Dhara" and "Vatav" (CD) mean in Surat and Ahmedabad textile markets?

Short answer

Dhara is the customary interest-free credit period (grace days) allowed on a wholesale cloth bill, while Vatav (Cash Discount or CD) is the 2% to 5% discount deducted upfront when a buyer pays immediately instead of taking credit.

In the wholesale markets of Surat, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai, every buyer should know these two financial terms before negotiating:

  • Dhara (Credit Period): The standard interest-free payment window (often 15, 30, or 45 days) agreed between established traders and mills before late-payment interest (typically 18% p.a.) applies.
  • Vatav / CD (Cash Discount): If you pay immediately via RTGS/NEFT or UPI against delivery instead of using credit days, wholesalers commonly offer a 2% to 5% upfront discount on the base taxable bill.

Calculate your exact net landed cost per piece after Vatav, GST, and transport using our Kurti & Garment Margin Calculator and Fabric Margin Calculator.

Updated 5 November 2026 Share on WhatsApp

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