Lost in the Labyrinths of Kolkata’s Local Markets – Shopping Local in My City of JoyLiving Like a Local: How to Find Authentic Experiences in Any City

By Srijani Mitra

Kolkata, a city nestled in the eastern part of India, is my hometown. Indubitably, it is called the City of Joy as it effortlessly blends the joyous elements of life. Coalescing tradition with the extravagance and chicness of modernity, Kolkata definitively offers a shopping experience like no other. Summer for us is incomplete without shopping from Kolkata’s popular shopping localities. We have Poila Boisakh, or the Bengali New Year, during summer, and every Bengali’s heart dances like a peacock (as in Tagore’s words) to avail the sales offered in local shops during these months.

While malls and online shopping platforms have become increasingly popular and fashionable, there’s something absolutely irreplaceable about exploring the city’s local markets. From the vibrant street markets to the quaint shops in narrow golis or alleys, Kolkata’s local shopping scene is a treasure trove—a paradise waiting to be fully explored.

Discovering the Hidden Beauties of Kolkata’s Local Markets

The myriad local markets are reflections of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Each market has its unique character, offering a plethora of products that aptly showcase the city’s craftsmanship, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Some of the must-visit markets that I recently visited are:

Gariahat Market:

This market is a paradise, bustling with famous shops offering Bengal handicrafts, sarees, and jewellery. All the summer weddings of Bengal are incomplete without shopping from some of the greatest saree showrooms of Gariahat. I love this place, owing to the fact that my alma mater is located around this area. I remember childhood days of navigating—almost with hawk eyes—the street shops to find the best outfit, the best matching jewellery, and accessories for school farewells. Some of the most interesting products offered in these marketplaces are jute bags and affordable jewellery. This summer, I managed to save some pocket money to get some boho jewellery from these beautiful bazaars in the south of Kolkata.

The next market on our list is New Market:

A historic market, it offers a kaleidoscopic range of products—from clothing to home décor. Summer months arrive, and the hustle and bustle at the market is something to marvel at. Beauteous glimpses of colourful products lined and hanging in small street shops throughout the footpaths along the street are a sight to behold. I love the unique handicraft and silver shops like ‘Chamba Lama’, situated in the Grand Hotel Arcade of New Market. Authentic curio shops like these are so rare in Kolkata today, and those that are still thriving are mostly in New Market. New Market always paints a picture of joy for me. Childhood days were spent rummaging through salwar suits at shops to buy the best one for my aunt’s wedding. Recently, I visited the market to buy my outfit for a fashion show I participated in. After searching for the outfit at different malls, I ended up buying a straight-cut white gown from Treasure Island Market. I enjoy spending time in the warm alleys of the market as it is a sweet remembrance of summer memories—unalloyed fun and the frolic of happy times.

Next, I want to discuss Hogg Market:

A popular destination for street food, cakes, and a potpourri of emotions—Hogg Market is a foodie’s go-to. Filled with restaurants offering the best kebabs like Aminia and Nizam’s (the first restaurant to have invented the Kathi Roll—a unique Mughal kitchen-inspired dish), Hogg Market is my favourite in summers to enjoy a glass of cold coffee or a simple masala cold drink at a street shop. The last time I visited the market, I picked up one bottled itr from a curious shop to gift my niece. I loved the collection and variety of fragrances offered by the huge collection of perfumes available at the shop. We (my family and I) returned from the market after having the famous plain fruit cake from Nahoum’s, a heritage Jewish shop known globally for its flavourful pastries and savouries.

These are some of the best local shopping destinations in my town, which you must have found interesting. Now, coming to more generic things, let’s discuss the quintessential benefits of shopping local.

The Benefits of Shopping Local

Shopping in local markets not only allows you to discover unique products but also contributes to the local economy. By supporting local vendors and artisans, you’re helping to preserve traditional crafts and promote entrepreneurship in the community.

Tips for Exploring Kolkata’s Local Markets

Bargain: Haggling is a way of life in local markets, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
Explore: Wander through the alleys and side streets to discover hidden gems.
Interact: Engage with the vendors and artisans to learn about their products and stories.

The Joy of Discovery

Shopping in Kolkata’s local markets is an adventure that offers glimpses of the city’s rich cultural treasures. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, traditional clothing, or local handicrafts, the city’s markets have something for everyone. So, take a stroll through the golis, absorb the atmosphere in its entirety, and be prepared to discover the treasures that Kolkata’s local markets have to offer.