Placeholder canvas
 
Close
Igniting Ideas For impact

Embarking on a transformative journey through six chapters, we traverse India's landscape, exploring pioneering startups and their revolutionary...

5 months

TBI Blogs: Experience India in a Whole New Setting, at a Rural Mall Barely 200 Kms from Mumbai!

TBI Blogs: Experience India in a Whole New Setting, at a Rural Mall Barely 200 Kms from Mumbai!

Malls are considered markers of the rapid urbanisation of many parts of India. However, even rural India has its own versions of these hubs of commerce and trade. Elita Almeida explores one such “mall” in Maharashtra.

Malls are considered markers of the rapid urbanisation of many parts of India. However, even rural India has its own versions of these hubs of commerce and trade. Elita Almeida explores one such “mall” in Maharashtra.

Situated in the rain-prone pockets of the Sahyadris, Purushwadi – located near the Baltan Dam along the banks of the river Kurkundi that flows through the hillocks of Bhairavnath – was originally known as Puruchwadi, meaning ‘village located atop a hill’. Over the centuries, it seems to have undergone a geographical renaming of its own as local language modified with time.

Purushwadi comprises of 110 houses and close to 700 people who depend rather intensively on agriculture and animal husbandry as their primary means of livelihood and sustenance.

Given this dependence on cattle, it is hardly surprising that the purchase and sale of cattle assumes an almost festival-like proportion at least twice a year.

DSCN1354

The first instance is an annual two-day exhibition that is organized during the month of May. This occurs over a Monday and a Tuesday, but people from all over the 40 neighbouring villages start pouring in from the preceding weekend itself. The second is known as Jaangi Uroos and is held during the second half of December. Locals attend as well as participate in both of these events. During the period of these events, locals camp and reside at the venue itself. These events are standalone, and in addition to the weekly Monday markets that happen all year through.

Rajur, at 12 km. from Purushwadi, is the convening centre where the trade of animals as well as wares takes place. The weekly bazaar includes sale of vegetables, fruits, spices, food grains, pulses, fish as well as cattle and poultry. It follows a unique system where, in the instance of the goat, when the buyer confirms the sale, the seller shears the animal as a sign of officiating the deal. A walk through the bazaar on a Monday does all kinds of things to one’s senses. Sellers hanker you to buy something over the call of another. You can witness the rainbow-tastic sight of colourful pulses and food grains piled up in mounds. The scent of spices wafts around you and teases your olfactory senses. Soft fabrics tickle your skin as you run your fingers through the clothes on display, contemplating a purchase. Saltine tingles dance on your tongue after you pick your favourite snacks from the local halwai.

It is truly a cornucopia of diverse experiences and sensations.

DSCN1351

Come rain or sunshine, local bazaars offer more than a sneak peek into the microcosm that is the local culture and the way of life of folks who live a mere 200 km. away from the metropolis of Mumbai, where urban folks don’t have to wait for a Monday to make a dash to a DMart.

Discover the magic of authentic experiences in rural India with Grassroutes Journeys. Find out more on the website.

Like this story? Or have something to share? Write to us: contact@thebetterindia.com, or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
NEW: Click here to get positive news on WhatsApp!

This story made me

  • feel inspired icon
    97
  • more aware icon
    121
  • better informative icon
    89
  • do something icon
    167

Tell Us More


We bring stories straight from the heart of India, to inspire millions and create a wave of impact. Our positive movement is growing bigger everyday, and we would love for you to join it.

Please contribute whatever you can, every little penny helps our team in bringing you more stories that support dreams and spread hope.

Support the biggest positivity movement section image Support the biggest positivity movement section image
 
X
 
Sign in to get free benefits
  • Get positive stories daily on email
  • Join our community of positive ambassadors
  • Become a part of the positive movement