Kristian Bertel | Photography
Archive story
In this archive story we are visiting and learning about the Marketplaces in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Read the background story of this archive photo by the photographer.
Markets have existed for as long as humans have engaged in trade and in this photograph of a marketplace some men carrying baskets on top of their heads in India. The baskets are most likely filled with vegetables and India produces some of the best vegetarian food you will find anywhere in the world. However, there is little understanding of veganism and the term 'pure vegetarian' means without eggs and animal products such as milk, butter 'Ghee' and curd are included in most Indian dishes.
Markets have existed for as long as humans have engaged in trade and in this photograph of a marketplace some men carrying baskets on top of their heads in India. The baskets are most likely filled with vegetables and India produces some of the best vegetarian food you will find anywhere in the world. However, there is little understanding of veganism and the term 'Pure vegetarian' means without eggs and animal products such as milk, butter 'Ghee' and curd are included in most Indian dishes.
Kristian Bertel, Photographer By Kristian Bertel, Photographer
– Updated on March 21, 2024

Marketplaces in India

A market or marketplace, is a location where people regularly go to gather for the purchase and sale of provisions, livestock and other goods. In different parts of the world, a marketplace may be described as a 'Bazaar'. Some markets operate daily and are said to be permanent markets while others are held once a week or on less frequent specified days such as festival days and are said to be periodic markets.




What are the best market in Mumbai?

The best market in Mumbai is Crawford Market. Since 1869, this Gothic structure has lent stately grace to stalls selling everything you could possibly need from paper cups to puppies. The market houses numerous items, from wholesale fruits, vegetables and poultry to clothes, dress materials, toys, jewelry and even a pet store. At the pet area, different varieties of dogs, cats and birds can be found.


Traditional and modern marketplaces in India
India is home to a wide variety of traditional and modern marketplaces where you can find anything from groceries to luxury items. While the traditional marketplaces are often bustling and vibrant, the modern ones are more organized and offer a range of products from all over the world. Whether you are looking for the latest fashion trends or traditional Indian handicrafts, India's marketplaces have something for everyone. Traditional marketplaces in India are often called 'Bazaars' and are usually open-air markets filled with vendors selling a variety of goods. These markets usually specialize in local products, such as spices, crafts and handmade clothing and they are often very crowded and chaotic, but they are a great place to find bargains and get a feel for the local culture.




"India is home to a variety of vibrant and bustling bazaars where people can find almost anything they desire. From colorful clothing to unique handicrafts, the Indian bazaars are a great way to experience the culture and diversity of the country"




An integral part of the Indian experience
Bazaars are an integral part of the Indian experience and they can be found in almost every city and the most famous bazaars in India are the Chandni Chowk in Delhi and the Crawford Market in Mumbai and the Lal Bazaar in Kolkata. These bazaars are known for their diverse selection of items, from traditional 'Saris' to modern gadgets and they are usually located in the heart of the cities and they are filled with merchants selling their wares. The atmosphere is always lively and vibrant, with people bargaining and haggling over prices and it is an experience unlike anything else and it is a great place to get a feel for the local culture.

These bazaars are also a great place to buy souvenirs. From handmade jewelry to traditional puppets, there is something for everyone and many of the bazaars also offer discounts, so it is always worth checking out and experience the culture and diversity of the country and they are filled with unique items and offer a great opportunity to buy souvenirs. So if you are looking for an authentic experience, head to one of the bazaars in India and explore the sights, sounds and smells.

Shopping malls as a marketplace in India
Modern marketplaces in India can be found in both large cities and small towns and shopping malls have become very popular in recent years and are home to a wide range of stores, from international brands to local boutiques. These malls are often air-conditioned and have ample parking and other amenities. No matter where you are in India, you can find a marketplace that caters to your needs. Whether you are looking for something traditional or modern, India's marketplaces have something for everyone.

Many types of markets
The form that a market adopts depends on its locality's population, culture, ambient and geographic conditions. The term market covers many types of trading, as market squares, market halls and food halls and their different varieties. Due to this, marketplaces can be situated both outdoors and indoors and in the modern world, online and around the globe, markets have evolved in different ways depending on local ambient conditions, especially weather, tradition and culture.

In some marketplaces the markets tend to be covered, to protect traders and shoppers from the Sun. In milder climates, markets are often open air. In Asia, a system of morning markets trading in fresh produce and night markets trading in non-perishables is common. In many countries, shopping at a local market is a standard feature of daily life.

Given the market's role in ensuring food supply for a population, markets are often highly regulated by a central authority. In many places, designated market places have become listed sites of historic and architectural significance and represent part of a town or nation's cultural assets. For these reasons, they are often popular tourist destinations. Following the tradition India also established temporary-seasonal markets in regional districts. A covered bazaar or market place became integrated into city structures and was to be found in the city center. Markets and bazaars were well known in the colonial era and some of these bazaars appear to have specialized in particular types of produce.




"In India today, many different types of market serve retail and commercial clients and in many weaver villages enjoyed a reputation as a center of trade in fine cloth, where merchants are trading in cotton and silk in the bazaars"




Wholesale markets in India
Primary wholesale markets that are held once or twice per week, which are selling produce from local villages. Secondary wholesale markets also known as 'Mandis' that are smaller merchants purchase from primary markets and sell at secondary markets. A small number of primary producers may sell direct to mandis. Terminal markets that are markets that sell directly to the end-user, whether it be the consumer, food processor or shipping agent for export to foreign countries for instance 'Bombay Terminal Market'.

Retail markets in India
Retail markets that are spread across villages, towns and cities. Fairs that are held on religious days and deal in livestock and agricultural produce.

Markets in Mumbai:
• Bhendi Bazaar
• Chira Bazaar
• Dava Bazaar
• Zaveri Bazaar

Vibrant tapestry of Indian markets
Almost whereever you go as a Photographer in Mumbai one can see marketplaces that are trading with different things. Bhendi Bazar is really famous for it's food delicacies that it has to offer and another market is Chira Bazaar, which is a neighborhood in Mumbai. This specific market is famous and known for its jewellery and Marathi community. There is also a famous fish market called 'Chirabazar'. Another market is Dava Bazaar also spelled 'Dawa Bazaar' and 'Dava Bazar', which is located in an area in South Mumbai near Lohar Chawl, Crawford Market and opens into Princess Street and it is famous for medical and scientific instruments and lab chemicals. 'Dava' in Hindi means medicine. Zaveri Bazaar is a jewellery market and a major hub for jewellery industry in Mumbai, India and this market is located at Bhuleshwar in South Mumbai, just north of Crawford Market, Zaveri Bazaar is a muddle of narrow lanes, dotted with hundreds of jewellery shops that sell gems and jewels.

"- As an avid traveler with a deep interest in cultural immersion, India had always been on the top of my bucket list. When I finally embarked on my long-awaited journey to this incredible country, one aspect that fascinated me the most was its bustling markets and bazaars. From the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk in Delhi to the vibrant pushcarts of Mumbai's Crawford Market, India's markets showcased a vivid tapestry of sights, sounds and flavors. Join me on this firsthand account of my unforgettable experiences with the markets in India, as I discovered the heart and soul of this remarkable nation", the Photographer says.

Jaipur's gem bazaar
"- My journey then took me to the vibrant city of Jaipur, renowned for its exquisite gemstones. The gem bazaar at Johari Bazar left me awestruck with its glittering display of precious jewels. I explored countless shops, each boasting unique craftsmanship and sparkling gems like rubies, emeralds and sparkling diamonds. The traders readily shared their expertise, explaining the intricacies of each stone and its cultural significance. The air was filled with an unmistakable ambiance of opulence and I couldn't resist taking home a small souvenir as a memento of this enchanting visit", the Photographer says again.




"No trip to India's markets would be complete without visiting the vibrant city of Varanasi. The winding lanes and bustling markets here overflowed with vibrant colors, echoing the spirituality and energy that embraces this pilgrim city. Assi Ghat market, in particular, enthralled me as I meandered through the fragrant stalls selling a bewildering range of silk 'Saris', intricate brassware and spiritual artifacts. Every item seemed to have a story to tell and the market gave a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Indian traditions and culture"





See this video about marketplaces in India made by Curly Tales.




"- My final market adventure led me to the heart of Mumbai, where Crawford Market awaited me with a delightful fusion of Western and Indian influences. The market's lively atmosphere engulfs you as soon as you step inside. From fresh fruits and vegetables to aromatic spices and street food, my senses were once again tantalized by a symphony of sights, smells and flavors. The grand Victorian architecture, juxtaposed with vibrant Indian stalls, perfectly depicted the city's cosmopolitan spirit", the Photographer says again.

"- India's markets are veritable treasure troves, offering an immersive experience like no other, each market had its own unique character and stories to tell. It was here, amid the vibrant chaos and the warmth of its people, that I truly connected with the soul of India. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions, a feast for your senses and a kaleidoscope of colors as you embark on your own journey through the markets of India – an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your traveler's soul", the Photographer says again.

Read also:  An Indian portrait



An Indian portrait


Read also:  An Indian portrait

More archive stories

India is a land full of stories. On every street, on every corner and in the many places in India, life is rushing by you as a photographer with millions of stories to be told. In the archive story above, you hopefully had a readable insight in the story that was behind the photo of a marketplace in Mumbai. On this website of Kristian Bertel | Photography you can find numerous travel pictures from the photographer. Stories and moments that tell the travel stories of how the photographer captured the specific scene that you see in the picture. The photographer's images have a story behind them, images that all are taken from around India throughout his photo journeys. The archive stories delve into Kristian's personal archive to reveal never-before-seen, including portraits and landscapes beautifully produced snapshots from various travel assignments. The archive is so-far organized into photo stories, this one included, each brought to life by narrative text and full-color photos. Together, these fascinating stories tell a story about the life in India. India, the motherland to many people around the world, a land of unforgetable travel moments. The archive takes viewers on a spectacular visual journey through some of the most stunning photographs to be found in the photographer's archive collection. The photographer culled the images to reflect the many variations on the universal theme of beauty and everyday life in India. By adding these back stories the photographer's work might immensely enhanced the understanding of the photographs.

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