Mumbai Day 2: Lalbaug Spice Market

Meeting up with our driver at the designated point, we left the Banganga Temple Tank Area for the Lalbaug Spice Market.

At one time Lalbaug was the center of the cotton mills industry. Today, spice shops line the street. The air is redolent with the aroma of the spices. Sack after sack of every imaginable kind of pepper — the spicier the better — are at the forefront … adding a pop of color. The eye-wateringly-strong aroma of red chilies is quite prominent. I swear one could tell how fiery-hot the peppers were just by smelling the air.

There were other things for sale at the market as well. But no doubt about it … spices are the stars.

Husaina explained that spice is the soul of Indian cooking. Each family has its own recipe for curry, garam masala, and more. Women come to the market where their unique blends are made to order.

Some shops just sell the spices. Others roast and mix the spices in tavas over high heat, constantly stirring to ensure the blend comes out as ordered. Yet others grind the roasted spices, package the blend, and hand it over to the people who patiently wait their turn.

Another fascinating experience in Mumbai.Read more