Rajasthan revives haat bazaar tradition

Haat bazaars in the past have been the specialty of the rural sector, and a special market zone where several vendors would sit in a row and sell different types of products, articles and commodities.

Now, with the Rajasthan government's efforts, this culture being revived, but in cities this time.

Started off by the Jaipur Municipal Corporation (JMC), haat bazaars have gradually emerged as the first choice for the local masses, especially in the capital city of Jaipur. They have come to become an every day affair in the city, at different locations.

"I like the idea, as these haats or markets not only help in conserving the age-old heritage look of the city, but have also opened new avenues for several small vendors and traders," Bimla Devi, a resident of the Bajaj Nagar area said. Every Monday, the haat bazaar is set up in this area.

"The haat bazaar not only mirrors the rural culture, but in a way has also reincarnated the age-old rural culture in a swanky urban society", Megha Mathur, a college going student said.

Thousands of people visits these haat everyday. Be it crockery, utensils, electric equipment, shoes, clothes for kids, cosmetics, bed sheets and cushions, furniture, toys, or any other item of daily-use, these bazaars are today considered to be the best option.

"The best thing about the haat bazaar is the quality of the product, and the fact that goods are affordable. The Haat market system is a big relief to the middle-class," said Alka, a customer.