Documentary Photography at Chickpete, Bangalore
As planned, my friend and I set out to experience the vibrant bustle of Bangalore’s Chickpete vegetable market during the early morning hours. We arrived at 3:40 a.m. and explored the market’s lively atmosphere until 6:00 a.m. The experience proved to be truly enchanting as we wandered through the various sections, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling marketplace, and there were still more areas to explore and witness the early-hour business activities. Chickpete Vegetable Market is more than just a marketplace; it is a dynamic, living example of Bangalore’s rich cultural legacy and thriving economy.
A glance before stepping into the market from the main road: the lights create a silhouette-like scene in the darkness everywhere I look, the mixture of crowd and vehicle noise, roads, and passages and roads are almost dirt, the combination of delightful and disagreeable scents.
Contours of Light
This marks the initial shot, a cluster of dealers and sellers gathered near a goods truck, engaged in discussion as they prepared to unload the goods. Among them, one individual speaks loudly, inquiring about the whereabouts of two others in the group.”He claims they made a promise yesterday but cheated today, and says it is difficult unloading on time.”
Dawn of Ambition
A father and his two sons are hurrying along, carrying vegetable bags. I believe they are farmers who have come to sell their vegetables to the wholesale dealer. It’s interesting to see a diverse array of sellers, ranging from just a pair of baskets filled with vegetables to larger operations boasting trucks.
Silent anticipation
I noticed that most of the shops had closed their doors during that hour, leaving only the streets alive with activity. I noticed numerous regular buyers engaging in lively bargaining and arguments with the sellers. While it may appear as a serious confrontation, it’s simply their customary negotiation style. Eventually, they reach a mutually agreed-upon price, exchange smiles, and part ways.
We used to avoid standing near any narrow passages to take snaps, as workers may shout at us or request clearance of the passage, some might bump into us as they pass by.
Thriving Trade
The sellers arranged their vegetable products in sets to facilitate easier purchases for buyers. Seller calling out to passing customers and extending friendly offers with appealing prices. Also sellers are in a hurry to sell their products because they set up temporary selling points along market roads, and must vacate the area before traffic begins.
Breathing space
Usually, the market streets are bustling with crowds, making it challenging to spot any vacant space. However, there comes a moment when a space is created in the street, and it lasts only for a second.
Lemon Harmony
I observed that either the lady seller possesses exceptional sales skills or there is a high demand for lemons during that season, as customers consistently visit to purchase lemons from her.
The height of the weight
Later we encountered an elderly gentleman inside a small godown. When he saw us, he approached us with friendly and humorous behavior, after engaging in casual conversation he cheerfully suggested taking his photo with a playful pose. His lively and humble nature left a lasting impression on us.
Camera: Nikon Z6, Manual setting.
