Hello LGs,
Pune’s markets come alive with color as Diwali approaches closer, and every street is bursting with warmth, tradition, and creativity.
This year, I decided to go to two famous markets: Kasba Peth’s Kumbhar Wada and Raviwar Peth. For those wishing to support local artists and add a festive touch to their home, these markets are perfect because of their wide range of decorative items.
Raviwar Peth Market
From colorful lanterns (also known as akash kandils) and diyas to ornamental garlands and rangoli colors, Raviwar Peth is well-known for its extensive selection of wholesale items.
Shopkeepers were busy assisting clients with their individual purchases in their stores when I arrived. Every store seemed to be bursting with affordable products that would be ideal for decorating my home. Knowing that the purchase was helping small companies made it feel fantastic to buy straight from local sellers.
Along with home décor, Raviwar Peth is a great place to get gifts for family and friends, like candles, metal diyas, colorful trays, envelopes, and DIY Diwali paper crafts.
I discovered some string lights and a lovely toran to put at my doorway.
Kumbhar Wada, Kasba Peth
After Raviwar Peth, the next day, I visited Kumbhar Wada in Kasba Peth. This market is the heart of Pune’s pottery community, especially during Diwali. The artisans here specialize in creating a variety of clay items, from traditional diyas to more contemporary pots and decorative pieces. Each item is handcrafted, showcasing the artistry of Pune’s potters.
Children construct little clay forts built after the Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as part of Maharashtra’s “Shivaji Killa/fort,” or Diwali Killa custom, which honors the history of the Maratha Empire and his legacy. To decorate the clay fort, I wanted to find some lovely objects like animals, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and Maratha mavlas (Maratha army men).
I updated Google Maps with some new images and information to help people find their required items in these marketplaces. In an effort to capture the essence of these lively markets, I have included a few images of the stores and even some of the craftspeople at work in Kumbhar Wada.
In addition to bringing interesting findings into your house, supporting local companies supports traditional crafts and livelihoods. I strongly suggest visiting your local markets to buy, eat and support your community.
Happy Diwali and happy shopping!
#supportlocalbusinesses IN
