The Magnificence of a ‘Market’

While Colaba, Fort, Marine Drive and the surrounding areas make up what is known as ‘town,’ these areas are undoubtedly the poshest in Mumbai. The southern tip of Mumbai, Colaba, is considered to be the most stylishly luxurious and the prettiest place in the city. A visit to this part is a must on the itinerary of any tourist. Being the southern tip, Colaba is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on all three sides. Besides, the place has an old world charm to it owing to the presence of the Gateway of India, the Victoria Terminus and other heritage buildings.

I have been inspired to write this blog by my visit to the Colaba Causeway market, one of the most wonderful places to shop and be in Mumbai. This market is one of the main attractions of Colaba (and in fact, Mumbai) and draws tourists from all over the world. You can find almost anything and everything here. The stuff ranges from trinkets and junk jewellery to clothes, footwear, books, kitchenware and even handicrafts. Colaba Causeway is also famous for its many shops selling antiques. I was amazed to see such an abundance of extremely stylish and antique hourglasses, compasses, gramophones (miniatures as well as functional), different varieties of locks, lamps, models of vintage cars, et al. Such was their grandeur and exquisiteness that I couldn’t help getting one of them home.

This place is also home to the two most popular cafes of all times – Cafe Mondegar and Cafe Leopold. I must say that the market is full of life and colours at all times of the day. The passage which has both showrooms and stalls on each side is full of people from all parts of India, as well as abroad. Colaba Causeway is not just a market in itself, but also a meeting point of people and cultures from all over the world. It, truly is, the heart of Mumbai.