"Herbs Are Friend Of The Physician,
And Pride Of The Cook"
~Charlemagne
Khari Baoli, in Delhi, was established in the 17th century under the Mughal influence and is Asia’s largest spice market. Though Khari Baoli means salty step well, now there is neither water nor salt, it has transformed into a hub of exotic, spices, herbs, dry fruits, nuts, and rice.
If one walks through the lanes, they can come across spices such as red chilies, turmeric, bay leaf, etc. On one side people carry sacks in hand trolleys while on the other side, the merchants are negotiating with customers. It has become a business hub and its very amazing to watch how the trading happens in an organized manner. Every day a large number of sacks filled with dry fruits/spices/rice are exported to other states and internationally. Being the oldest and the largest, it serves the market of North India, which includes the states of Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, and even Madhya Pradesh, and offers the best prices for the people.
The chaos begins around 11 am every day and it continues till 7 pm. There are more than 2000 stalls, and some are very old. They have their own godowns and workers. At the start of the day, the merchants number their sacks that are to be transported. The trolleys wait at the main gate, to be loaded and from there they are further distributed.
The market also attracts many content creators and photographers as it gives opportunities to them to showcase their beauty. But talking with some of the merchants, the accessibility of the place has reduced as many stocks get stolen due to the increasing number of outsiders in the area. Now, the terrace of the market is only reachable with special permission. Keeping aside the permission part, the chaotic charm is still prevalent in the area.
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