Unique and fancy Rath designs at Lake Market attract young crowd
Unique and fancy Rath designs at Lake Market attract young crowd
From pocket friendly to costly Raths, buyers can choose from a huge plethora at this south Kolkata Rath market
Jaismita Alexander
Published 19.06.23, 05:09 PM
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The lane beside Lake Mall, towards Charuchandra College has turned into a colourful Rath market ahead of Rath Yatra which will be celebrated on June 20. Almost 8 to 10 temporary stalls have been set up and the collection here is unique and huge
All images by Jaismita Alexander
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This market stands out for its varied collection of chariots available in various sizes and designs. While there are the traditional wooden Raths which are decked up with hand-painting or the glossy marble papers, Raths made of bamboos are also available
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These designs are usually not seen in Kolkata. Bishu Mondal, a shop-owner said,
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According to Mondal, the star attraction of this market was the Puri Rath which is out of stock. The Mahabharata and bamboo chariots are the best-sellers
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Most of the Raths are sourced from Beliaghata Canal Road. According to the sellers, the unique designs of the chariots are specifically made keeping in mind the new generation. Mondal said,
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Mousumi Dhar visited the Lake Market all the way from Amtala just to buy Rath. However, she was disappointed as the stock was exhausted and she had to settle for a Mahabharata chariot.
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The pocket friendly chariots will suit one and all. Raths are priced between Rs 250 and Rs 1,000 for a four-storeyed Rath. The Mahabharata chariot is pegged between Rs 500 and Rs 600. The Puri Raths will cost between Rs 300 and Rs 700 depending on the size
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The traditional single-storey Raths made of wood and painted in red and silver with minimal designs are also available between Rs 250 and 300
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The miniature idols of Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra also come in different colours. While there are options for three idols on a single pedestal, separate idols of the deities are also available. Dhar pointed to one set of idols and said,
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The market is open till 10.30pm on Monday and will remain open till Tuesday noon
