The Conventional Approach

Let n be the number of plates Bikaner Bhujiawala is ready to supply per Rs 1000.

Bengali Mishtanna Bhandaar would give only (n – 2) plates.

If p be the number of plates ordered, she would have to pay p*(1000/n) rupees to Bikaner Bhujiawala and p*[1000/(n – 2)] rupees to Bengali Mishtanna Bhandaar.

Equating the difference to Rs 3,000, we get p = 3*n*(n – 2)/2.

We have two unknowns and only one equation. Where do we go from here?

Would you like a hint?

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