CAMERA GULLY OF DELHI

"A Camera Is Save Button For The Mind's Eye"

~Roger Kingston

Established in the 1970’s Kucha Chaudhary Market aka the camera market of Delhi, is a paradise for photographers. From film to the digital era, this market has been a hub for all kinds of photo gear and services. The narrow lane just opposite the SBI branch marks entry to the market. One can easily get confused if they see the lane, but once inside, there are shops that deal with all kinds of accessories. There are shops dealing in this wholesale camera business for more than 35-40yrs. From Olympus to Mirrorless, Polaroid to Instax, the market offers a wide range for camera lovers. At a much cheaper rate, one can easily afford a vintage camera in working condition rather than going to a high-end showroom.

Talking with Rajesh Kumar, owner of Rajesh stores, he says, he has been working in this line for more than 35yrs and other than being a camera repairer he is also a photo hobbyist. He has used both modern and old cameras but has a likeness to the latter. His favorite camera is FM 2 and FM 10, and he now holds the largest collection of vintage cams in the market. While now a maximum of the stores have updated with the new technology and sell mainly digital cams, there are cupboards filled with various old cameras, up from the display and sell. Going deeper into the photo market, I came across Kandhari stores, which exclusively deal with flashes and lights. It has been in this business for more than 40yrs now. From Metz 202, 60 CT 1, to modern-day Godox and Simpex they have been selling and repairing all kinds of lighting equipment.

Film camera has been an essential part of the classic times. With the increasing interest in photography and videography, the young generation is now taking more interested in analog cams. People are buying them as a collectible and some use them also. Naresh, the owner of Naresh Repairs, a 15yrs old shop, says that he is in this service for more than 10yrs and is lucky to have repaired and used the classic cameras. From Olympus to Kochina to Yashica he has handled many.

Times may change but, having such markets around the city, always keeps the heritage alive. I think they care for the cameras much more than a photography enthusiast, and that is one of the main reasons which has kept the vibe alive.