How Dubai’s Meena Bazaar got its name

It is derived from the sign of a shop set up at entrance of market in 1973, early traders say

It is derived from the sign of a shop set up at entrance of market in 1973, traders say

early days. “I was the first to move to this lane from the abra area and many traders followed suit. We were selling textiles and electronics. The place had a great vibe.

“As families visited the market, its glistening lights and attractive displays reminded one of the Delhi Red Fort’s famous Meena Bazaar during the Mughal Era, where a special closed market would be held for women of royalty,” said Buxani, adding that Sharda Trading’s signboard with the same name gave it an ‘official’ ring.

Businessman Ashok Sawlani of Royalex Textiles said the textile ■ market boomed in the late 1970s, 80s and 90s.

“We opened our textile shop in 1982 but handed over our space to a jeweller in 2006. There has been a lot of change over the years.”

As rents began to soar, many traders either downsized or moved out. “The reason you see a large number of jewellers here today is that only they could afford the high rents,” said Buxani.

Ishwar Kishwani, owner of Ratan’s, which has been selling perfumes and electronics since 1975, said he also opened a jewellery shop in the area.

“Despite these changes, the market has retained not just its name, but also its fame. I don’t think I will ever want to move out of this area.”

The ITL Cosmos building was the first building to come up in Meena Bazaar when it moved from the abra area (left) in 1973. The shop Meena Bazaar, from which the market got its name, was located down the road, at the very entrance.