Tamba Kanta Market in Mumbai

Tamba Kanta Market: A Hidden Gem in South Mumbai

Tamba Kanta is an old and iconic market located near the famous Bhuleshwar market in South Mumbai. The name ‘Tamba’ means copper, and ‘Kanta’ refers to a weighing scale. Traditionally, shops here specialised in weighing and selling copper and brass utensils, either wholesale or retail. Today, the market also offers a variety of steel and aluminum items, which are widely used in Indian kitchens.

During a recent visit, I purchased a 950 ml copper water bottle for INR 350, which is significantly lower than the INR 500 or more charged by other retailers in Mumbai, depending on the quality. I also bought some brass items for my pooja mandir, which were not only more affordable compared to online portals but were hard to find in suburban retail shops.

Despite having lived in Mumbai for years, I was unaware of this market, and visiting it was a unique experience. Shopping in such an old, bustling market provides a different kind of joy. There’s an extensive selection of items, and you can negotiate prices to some extent. If you’re looking to furnish your home or kitchen with brass or copper items, a weekend trip to Tamba Kanta is definitely worth your time.

For the best deals, it’s advisable to buy in bulk, which also compensates for the travel distance. The shopkeepers are extremely helpful, often directing you to the right shop if they don’t have what you’re looking for.

How to Get There:

• Western Railway Line: Get off at Marine Lines station and take a shared cab. The nearby landmark is Surti Vegetarian Restaurant.
• Central or Harbour Railway Line: Get off at Masjid Bandar station and take a 15-minute walk. It’s better to avoid cabs from the station due to the area’s crowded nature, though shared cabs are a good option.

I hope you enjoy your visit to Tamba Kanta. Happy shopping!

Photo Credits: http://mumbaimag.com/mumbailist-the-amzing-bazaars-of-mumbai-part-2/