The much-hyped Anjuna flea market, originally started by hippies to sell their goods, has now become a doubtful last option for tourists to explore. The market remains oblivious to many of those who arrive in Goa. The future of this bazaar hangs by a rusty anchor. The market, which opens only on Wednesdays, tends to empty by evening, despite shops remaining open from morning till night.
Market in a challenging phase
The crumbling market is facing a plethora of difficulties to not lose its standing in this tourism realm. Chef Rohan D’Souza, co-partner at a restaurant, said, “We have been in this market for quite some time, and we have seen the market over the years. Previously, the market was great, but there are certain months where it does have a challenging aspect to it. People are not interested in exploring this market anymore. The items the market has to offer have no quality nor variety according to few travellers visiting the market.”
Nothing new to offer
Unlike olden times, when this bazaar was run by hippies, today’s stall owners are all people from all over India, who possess nothing different or unique that one can’t get in any other market in India. People would love to come to a flea market where they could get some unique souvenirs at good prices. A local restaurant owner said, “Vendor quality at the market won’t help it to become a tourist attraction. Vendors are selling the same mundane things that you get in any market at better prices as far as tourists are concerned.”
Vendors on profitability
Siniya Naik, a local clothes stall owner, said, “There is no profit, as there are no customers.” Renuka, another local stall owner of bags, said, “There is no business as such; there are no international tourists, only domestic tourists are visiting the market, but they are not interested in buying anything.” Anjuna Flea Market, to up its game, requires more tourists to know about it and visit this place. “Immense efforts have to be put in by the tourism department of Goa, as well as the locals and tourists visiting this place,” stated a local at the market.
Optimism in these tough times
Despite the market trailing a little behind, there are a few souls and elements that manage to keep it alive. Tourists seemed to be entirely spellbound by the concept of handicrafts and handmade objects. Anita Suresh Bai, owner of a handmade bag stall, was delighted to say, “I make everything on my own, and both international and domestic tourists are fascinated by handmade items, hence, I am expecting to receive more sales.” Dr Rashmi Rajpal Singh, a traveler from Jodhpur, said, “Who doesn’t enjoy a stroll in a picturesque bazaar like this? We thoroughly enjoyed the market.” She further added, “There’s good food to eat, and you can get souvenirs for your family and friends from here.”