Sunil Kumar P / Ritika Karmakar
Established around 1920, Kalasipalyam Market in Bengaluru holds a significant place in the city’s history. Situated off Hosur Road, it has been a longstanding hub for trade, spirituality, and community. However, despite its rich legacy, this market’s condition has deteriorated over time, leaving its residents and visitors grappling with chaos and neglect. Kalasipalyam Market, older than even KR Market, has an interesting past. Covering 2 acres initially, it found its home in a quiet rural area on the city’s outskirts. This once peaceful place carries deep spiritual importance for both Hindus and Muslims due to its association with saints. It served as a gateway to Bangalore and flourished as a bustling trade hub for perishable goods and industrial supplies. In the heart of this historic market, farmers brought their fresh vegetables and fruits to be sold to wholesalers at the Jaya Chamarajendra Market, also known as the New APMC Market. This exchange formed a vital link between the countryside’s produce and the city’s needs. However, recent times have painted a grim picture of Kalasipalyam’s state. For the past two months, the market’s condition has taken a distressing turn. Roads clogged with dirty water and heaps of garbage have created an unbearable stench and an unsightly environment. Walking through the murky water on the road has become a daunting task for anyone. This lamentable situation raises a pressing question: who should be held accountable for this gross negligence in maintenance? Urgent and comprehensive efforts are needed to restore its lost charm and make it a thriving hub once again. Developing the market must go hand in hand with upgrading its infrastructure to truly revive its legacy and improve the lives of its residents.
