AHILYANAGAR

Ahilyanagar City Market, located on Rasta Peth, has been a major commercial center since the early twentieth century. Traditional Maharashtrian sweets, linens, and spices are among the many items that make this market famous. Over the years, it has changed from being a straightforward trading hub to having more retail space and updated infrastructure. Even though modern stores have incorporated contemporary retail techniques, the market retains its historic charm and keeps its historical character in the face of expanding commercial expansion.

Akole Market is known for its organic spices, which are grown by local farmers using traditional agricultural practices. These spices, including turmeric, chili, and coriander, are cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. The harvesting, drying, and grinding processes are done using methods that preserve the natural flavors and medicinal properties of the spices. Akole Market highlights the importance of sustainable farming and the rich biodiversity of the region.

In Ahilyanagar, there is a well-known lane called 'Bamboo Galli,' where a community of bamboo artisans lives and sells their handmade goods. Walking through this lane, you'll notice tall bamboo stacks lined up outside every house and shop. The market offers a variety of bamboo products, including colourful picnic boxes, roti holders, ladders, brooms, tea coasters, bowls in various shapes and sizes, decorative items, and kitchenware.

One of the shopkeepers mentioned that the bamboo used is sourced from Karnataka. Unfortunately, bamboo handicrafts are becoming a dying art, as there is little demand for these products. The shopkeeper explained that sales are unpredictable, with no certainty about when items will sell, whether in a day or a month. The new generation is also reluctant to learn the craft, as the production process is labour-intensive. It can take an entire day to produce just 3-4 baskets, which are sold for only 200-300 rupees, making the effort feel disproportionate to the financial return.

Bidriware is a metal craft from Ahilyanagar, known for its silver inlay work on blackened metal. Shankar Deshmukh, a skilled artisan from Ahilyanagar, has been making these detailed pieces for over 30 years. His workshop is near the Jain Mandir in Ahilyanagar, where this traditional craft is showcased.

Copper utensils in Ahilyanagar are handmade and feature engraved patterns. Mohanrao Bhosale, a well-known copper craftsman in the Old City Area, has been making these durable and artistic pieces for many years. His work includes both functional and decorative items.

Ganja Bazaar is a historic and well-known market in Ahilyanagar city. It offers a diverse range of products, including fruits, vegetables, wedding essentials, pooja and festival items, spices, groceries, animal accessories, as well as locks and keys.

Numerous gold and silver stores can be found along the Saraf Galli, a street close to Ganja Bazaar.

Jamkhed Market is distinguished by its local handicrafts and spices, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage. Historically, it has been a centre for traditional crafts and goods, reflecting the artisanal skills of the local community. As the market has evolved, it has seen the incorporation of organized retail spaces, though it continues to celebrate its traditional character with a variety of unique, locally-made products.

With a history that stretches back to the British Raj, Kapad Bazar is one of Ahilyanagar's most famous and historic marketplaces. As the name suggests, Kapad Bazar is a clothing center with a vast selection of clothing in different styles, types, textures, colors, and prices. The market has remained connected to its historical roots despite its gradual modernization. A distinctive fusion of the past and present is created by the large stores that line the streets and the street vendors who sell their wares outside. It's interesting to note that Nathuram Godse is thought to have plotted Mahatma Gandhi's murder while seated in one of the hotels in this marketplace.

With stores usually starting between 10:00 and 10:30 AM and closing between 9:00 and 9:30 PM, the market is often bustling and packed. Only on Wednesdays does the market stay closed.

The Karjat Market is celebrated for its local spices and the unique Shipi Amti. Known for its trade of traditional food products, the market has long attracted visitors seeking authentic regional flavours. Over time, Karjat Market has embraced modern retail trends while continuing to highlight its traditional food stalls. The introduction of newer retail outlets and markets has brought modernization, yet the traditional stalls and local specialities remain central to its appeal.

Mangalvar Bazaar is another well-known Ahilyanagar market. This market, as its name implies, is only open on Tuesdays. Hundreds of street vendors and retailers set up shop in this market, hailing from different Ahilyanagar villages. This market offers a large range of things at affordable prices, including electronics, clothing, footwear, used goods, toys, and more. things include vegetables, fruits, spices, chips, namkeens, poultry, and fish. This market is located in Sarjepura neighborhood of Ahilyanagar city.

The market yard serves as a wholesale marketplace for fruits, vegetables, and flowers. This market is available for business only for a few hours; it begins at 6 am and closes at 10 am.

A popular market in Ahilyanagar, Nava Bazaar is well-known for the beautiful handwoven sarees made by the Mahadev Koli community. These sarees, which are renowned for their elaborate designs and vivid colors, are painstakingly crafted using traditional looms and natural dyes, conserving ancient methods that have been handed down through the ages.

Parner Market is well known for its trade in local grains and pulses, functioning as a vital center for these agricultural staples. Historically, it has played a crucial role in supporting local farmers and traders, significantly contributing to the regional economy. In recent years, the market has been modernized with advancements in infrastructure and technology, such as improved storage and transportation facilities, while retaining its traditional purpose and significance.

Sangamner Market serves as a crucial trading point for agricultural produce in the region. It is especially renowned for its fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional items like Rassa Vada. Historically, the market has been pivotal in connecting local farmers with consumers, fostering a vital link in the local economy. In recent years, Sangamner Market has expanded significantly with improved infrastructure and modern cold storage facilities to better handle perishable goods, reflecting its growth and adaptation to contemporary agricultural needs.

Shrigonda Market is well-known for its Trimurti Bhel and local agricultural produce. This market has been integral in trading local snacks and fresh produce, contributing to its popularity. The market has grown over the years, incorporating modern amenities while preserving its traditional food stalls. There is also an increased focus on tourism, further enhancing the market’s role in promoting local cuisine and attracting visitors.

Sanjhuri embroidery is known for its bright colours and intricate patterns. Sunita Patil, a talented embroiderer in Ahilyanagar, continues this traditional craft, creating beautiful clothing and household items. Her workshop is located near Ganesh Mandir in Ahilyanagar.

The modern marketplace of the city is now centered in Ahilyanagar's Savedi area. Just a few years ago, Savedi was an underdeveloped and sparsely populated area. However, in recent years, it has transformed into one of the city's most sought-after residential neighborhoods. Today, Savedi hosts numerous new shops, malls, and retail establishments. Notably, "Kohinoor Mall," the first shopping center in Ahilyanagar, opened in Savedi last year.

Shirdi Market is famous for its religious items and prasad associated with Sai Baba. Local vendors prepare and sell prasad, sweets, flowers, and other ritualistic items, maintaining traditional recipes and methods to ensure purity and sanctity. The prasad, in particular, is made with great care, following age-old traditions that have been preserved over time. Shirdi Market not only serves the spiritual needs of people but also keeps the local culture alive through its offerings.

Rahata Market is popular for its dairy products produced by the Dhangar community. They make ghee, butter, and yogurt using milk from their herds, employing traditional methods to ensure high quality and rich taste. The dairy products from Rahata Market are not only a staple in local diets but also a reflection of the Dhangar community’s expertise in dairy farming. The market provides a glimpse into the rural lifestyle and the importance of dairy farming in the region.

Traditional wood carving in Ahilyanagar involves crafting detailed designs on wooden furniture and decorative items. Vijay Kulkarni is a master wood carver in Main Bazaar, Ahilyanagar, known for his skilful work, which includes elaborate doors and panels.