Amdavadi shopaholics root for flea markets

They say, some find shopping a therapy, and Amdavadis sure love to indulge in shopping. While we all love taking a stroll in malls with all the international brands flaunting their collections, going to a flea market is an experience of its own. That is why these shopping destinations are fast becoming popular in the city. Not only do these give you options aplenty for buying quirky stuff, flea markets are nothing less than a carnival with music, food and loads of fun coming together at one place.
WHAT’s A FLEA MARKET…
In simple terms, flea markets rent space to those who want to sell goods or have barter deals.It’s a popular global concept. Ahmedabad too still flaunts its very own flea market like the Gurjari or Ravivari market, among other cool new-age flea markets. Shyamal Divetia, owner of an event company that organized one of the flea markets in Ahmedabad shares, “This is a cross-over between the typical Gurjari kind of flea and lifestyle exhibition. We offer an open space for stalls. It’s a combo of shopping, food, entertainment.” Yagni Mehta, founder of an art company that organized initial flea market concept in the city says, “A flea market has to retain its rawness. Many of our customers are budding artists, entrepreneurs who have just begun their start-ups - so, the rawness is retained.”
FUN GALORE AT FLEA MARKET
Why are flea markets so popular? The answer is simple - they are pure fun! As Yagni shares, “There's a bit more to your shopping, the quirky and colorful décor certainly adds value to it. That apart, many of the customers do indulge in bargain which adds a fun element! Foot-tapping music performances make it more vibrant. We tried to introduce Ahmedabad based music bands so that they too get a platform and give a different genre of musical experience - beyond Bollywood music." Even Shyamal adds, "We had musical performances, zumba as well as fashion show - and there were prizes too. We have zones for certain indoor games, a fun-zone for kids as well as photo booths. So all such elements definitely pep up the entire shopping experience."
SHOPPING AND MORE
Besides being a fun laced shopping experience, shopaholics too get great deals at these hotspots. Bhairavi Joshi, a young professional shares, “I have my wedding coming up, so flea markets helped me pick up some amazing things for home décor which I will not easily find in shops or malls. I could also place few orders for certain dresses and accessories.” There is much more to flea markets as Nirjari Shah, a regular participant at flea markets in the city, says, “I started my venture as a hobby initially and was amazed with the response. So, I decided to be regular at flea markets by putting up the stall of my creations of accessories in Ahmedabad and Mumbai. Now I look at it as a hub to develop network and have regular clients as well. It works very well for me.” Even Shyamal adds, “Many stall owners look at flea market as a space to build network and market their products.” So, get ready to pick up your shopping bags and enjoy this fun-filled carnival.