Dreams unlimited at the bazaar

Every time, I drive past a crowded market place, its scintillating energy always intensifies my curiosity. I braced myself to go to the market on Sunday early evening with the rumbling of an idea that required some semblance of shape and form. I often follow my heart and wander at different places while more sensible people indulge in siesta! Such delightful wanderings are invariably always rewarded by rare glimpse of life.  

Two different worlds of gullies and by-lanes and  swanky surrounding just a few meters away across the road swirling into myriad patterns of juxtaposing and coexisting in this effervescent city that exudes such aura of power and wealth! I was entering teaming other world of a crowded market; a microcosm throbbing and pulsating brilliant energy.     

The moment I entered the market, my senses were assailed with repugnant, odious smells that left the nostrils quivering. Loud, almost deafening noises made my heart palpitate rapidly and I cowered inside. There was so much happening around and once all that was conquered, I could embrace stories of people who had so much to share and welcomed me open heartedly. Albeit, I had to quickly master the art of ignoring futile attempts of some wanton, ludicrous comments.     

I simply love the realness of such bazaars! It is like visiting an unknown land where courtesies are very much present but just packed differently. The engagement of human interaction is warm, genuine and very comforting. This world is completely different than mine yet in some way connected. My frequent visits to mall have never given me so many opportunities to know about life this well. 

The bazaar holds great charm amidst the new age concrete and glass bling despite being forlorn and unkempt. Sometimes, piece of exquisite architecture that is tragically forsaken finds a rare glimpse amidst random constructions and one realizes how time has changed this interesting world! Fortunately, what has never changed is the fascinating buzz till late night. 

This unique microcosm epitomizes unlimited dreams rearing new heights every day! Whether it is a person working at small road side tea stall, eateries, tyre puncture repair shop, mehendi artists or someone selling safety pins! Everyone's eyes are brimming with ambition of making it big someday. 

While children as young as six or seven struggle to learn some blue collar skills in attempt to chase elusive dream of secured future, their experienced elders keep a watchful eye on other hawkers trying to encroach even an inch from barely few feet space of their own empire. Most of these hawkers are not licensed and have occupied space illegally. They know torment of everyday existence and though their individual struggles connect them in pain, each one is aware that he is alone in his daily rigors. The solution of their problem lies in passing on weekly hafta (bribe) to the concerned authority.  

There are days, when authorities force them to shut down. On such occasions, they emerge crushed with silent screams of vanquished dreams take ugly turn but the very next day they appear with cocky smiles and self-possessed air with steely determination reflecting in their eyes. For many, the desire to stay ahead of others in race of survival is so potent that it doesn't matter which path they choose to take through life.  
  

Though I was just a welcome distraction, the hawkers joked with me, asking lot of questions, sharing their experiences and laughter. They offered me meal and enjoyed all the attention I showered on them. I returned happy, listening a few rags to riches stories that were truly inspiring. This seemingly shaded world is always willing to impart lessons about life, business and human nature that no "art of living" class or management school could ever teach. I was glad I had learnt mine for the day!