What makes traditional markets (aka Bazaars) timeless?

Traditional markets are the focal point of culture, history, local trade and skills and regional specialities, which make for an experience which is much beyond the simple act of shopping. There are different markets, each famous for the region it belongs to, strewn all across India. All it takes is an inquisitive mind and a walk down each of them to bargain and haggle for goodies in exchange for unending knowledge in the form of tales of family history and stories rooted in local antiquity. The street markets are the physical representation of the evolution of a region as they chart many of the aspects that define the very backbone of evolution. 

How the changing times have led to changes in the market-culture

People now have very little time to spare for any activity that they undertake. The mind-set of the people today is tuned to spend time efficiently and that is what has shaped the way market-culture has evolved. The rise of shopping complexes as a one shop destination that allows for activities such as shopping along with recreational spaces such as game arcades and movie theatres, coupled with eateries makes it extremely desirable. This aspect of having it all in one place nestled in the comforts of technology and advancement are major factors that have changed the way people shop. 

Are the Traditional Markets giving way to Urban Commercial Complexes? 

The markets, better known as bazaars, are having a hard time competing with the urban commercial shopping complexes. The shopping malls are nothing but an urbanized version of the markets. They have been designed so as to provide the users with a comfortable shopping experience with well-planned layouts and provisions such as washrooms on every floor, centrally air conditioned spaces etc. Although factually they have been built to upgrade the shopping experience of its users, realistically the experience it provides does not compare to the one that is provided whilst in a bazaar. 

One of the major differences is in terms of the price of the products and no matter how rich you are, the opportunity to save a few bucks is one that is sought after by many regardless of what their financial standing is! 

What makes the Traditional markets unbeatable?

Very plainly speaking a market is where a seller offers commodities/ services in exchange for money but a bazaar is almost never just that. It is a captivating walkthrough of locally produced goods vibrant and colourful in their disposition, intoxicating in its smells emanating from the various food stalls that encircle it and a beautiful exchange of conversation for both a local as well as a traveller. It is a microcosm of the community that it is centred around that is not only the source of economic viability but also an expression of communal identity.  

Why Traditional markets will never go out of Fashion 

Although there is a significant change in the market-culture of people as of today, malls will never be able to offer even a sliver of the experience a bazaar is known for. Right from the nostalgia embedded in the local food and artisanal shops to the economical delectables at local shops such as bangles, spices, shoes and whatnot, bazaars will always carry more heart, more life and dazzle with ethnic simplicity as it continues to be!