Mapping Burrabazar

Team Chronicle

In the ancient times, Burrabazar, located on the northern part of Dihi Kalikata adjoining Dihi Sutanuti owed its original nucleus to the yarn market of Sutanuti with its trade controlled by the Seths and Bysacks which later expanded into the Great Bazar. The banians and diwans –intermediaries in English trade and administration began to set up their great households in the area surrounded by dwellings of servants and rent payers. Raja Shukamoy Ray of Posta, the Mullicks and the descendents of the famous Seths and Bysacks of Sutanuti occupied huge residences in Burrabazar. Located in between the White Town at Chowringhee and Black Town at Sutanuti, Burrabazar was at the centre of the city and densely populated because it was the locale for business activities.

A conglomeration of bazaars, Burrabazar was once the central point of the market network in the city and connected the city with its hinterland. Given its history, it is no wonder, shopping at Burrabazar is a unique experience; so far removed from what any shopping mall can offer, in an atmosphere that defies description. When it comes to price, Burrabazar offers an almost forgotten exercise bargaining.

As old as Calcutta itself, Burrabazar has many entrances, but probably the best way in is through Mahatma Gandhi Road. In Cotton Street, there’s Tulapatti, predominantly known for textiles. Mechua is all about fresh fruits, Bagri Market has a plethora of household plastic and electronic goods, Posta Bazar is famous for oil, cereals and spices, while Sonapatti sports all that glitters- gold, silver, diamonds and more. Nandaram Market, or Tirpalpatti, has everything you may want in waterproofing, while Old China Bazar houses every kind of stationery items. Jamnalal Bajaj Street is all about furnishings, not to forget Mehta Building and Pollock Street; Ezra Street and Teritti Bazar for electronic goods and fresh produce. At the end of Pollock Street is a chemical market on the first floor, not to forget Satyanarayan Park AC Market for saris, garments and accessories.