Chor Bazaar, Mumbai
Chor Bazaar, also known as the Thieves Market, is a vibrant and eclectic flea market nestled in the heart of Mumbai. Its name, “Chor Bazaar,” translates to “Thieves Market” in Hindi, hinting at its intriguing past and colorful heritage. View Below for Chor Bazaar History or How to Reach Chor Bazaar.
A Glimpse into the Origins
The origins of Chor Bazaar can be traced back to the 19th century when it started as a trading hub for stolen goods. Legend has it that items pilfered from nearby homes would often find their way to this bustling market, where they would be sold off at bargain prices.
Over the years, Chor Bazaar evolved into a melting pot of cultures and commodities, attracting traders and shoppers from far and wide. Today, it stands as a symbol of Mumbai’s vibrant street life and entrepreneurial spirit.
Exploring the Timing and Operational Hours of Chor Bazaar
Opening Days and Hours
Chor Bazaar operates every day of the week except for Fridays, when it remains closed for Jumma prayers. On other days, the market comes alive with activity from early morning until late evening. View Below for How to Reach Chor Bazaar.
1. Automobile Section
Once you walk into the market, this is the first section you would see. You can find various workshops for automobiles repairs, shops for buying spare parts for the vehicles and vintage items. It is said that when a stolen vehicle reach this area, the workers would dismantle it part by part to sell as spare parts within a few minutes. If you are looking for spare parts at cheap price, this would be a grand destination for you.
2. Antique Section
Old statues, bronze articles, ancient coins, Grandfather clock, typewriters, vintage camera and a lot more can be found in the antique section of this market. Many movie production houses visit this section to find props for their shopping set.
3. Secret Night Market Just For Shoes
This is the motherlode of stolen objects. A small lane called Dedh Gully is dedicated to this secret market that opens up only between 4 am and 8 am, every Friday. This market will sell exclusively stolen braded shoes at unbelievably cheaper price.
You can find both used shoes and new ones. The new products are usually sold illegally by workers from factory outlet or cargo stolen for the port region.
4. Movie Poster Shops
Mumbai is the backbone of Bollywood and movie industry still thrives here. In the past, crew hand-print the posters for their movies and paste it around the city. Are you a movie freak? You can find vintage movie posters in this section.
5. Muslim Region
90% of the people here are Muslim. Thus, during Friday, most of the shops will be either shut or open for sale at dead-beat discount.
Best Time to Visit
For the best experience, it’s advisable to visit Chor Bazaar during weekdays, as weekends tend to be more crowded. The mornings are ideal for exploring the market at a leisurely pace, while the afternoons offer a glimpse into its bustling energy.
How to Reach Chor Bazaar
By Train
Chor Bazaar is conveniently located near Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Grant Road railway stations. From either station, visitors can easily hop on a local train or hire a taxi to reach the market.
By Road
For those traveling by road, Chor Bazaar is accessible via various modes of transportation, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. It is situated in the bustling neighborhood of Bhendi Bazaar, making it easily reachable from different parts of the city.
By Metro
With the recent expansion of Mumbai’s metro network, reaching Chor Bazaar has become even more convenient. The nearest metro station is Grant Road, from where visitors can take a short ride to reach the market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chor Bazaar Mumbai is not just a market; it’s a reflection of the city’s vibrant culture and rich history. From its intriguing origins to its bustling streets, every corner of Chor Bazaar exudes an aura of mystery and allure.
So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a bargain hunter, or simply curious to explore Mumbai’s hidden gems, Chor Bazaar beckons you to embark on a memorable journey through its winding alleys and bustling lanes.