Delhi’s hip & chic shopping agora

Meharchand Market is one of the most exclusive and stylish markets of Delhi and if you’re a discerning shopper, then you must head straight here, suggests Purnima Sharma

Those used to the crowded lanes of most of the Delhi markets are sure to be in for a surprise when they visit the tony Meharchand Market in South Delhi.

But before we get in there, a word about this marketplace that was first named after Mehar Chand Khanna, an Indian politician who was part of the Indian freedom movement and was later appointed Union Minister for Rehabilitation from 1954 to 1962. Not too far back, with its run-down, dilapidated looking shops except for a few that, mostly sold music cassettes and stationery besides housing tailoring units, dhabas and eateries, was mostly seen as a poor cousin of its swanky neighbour — Khan Market.

But not any more. That is why when old-timers visit the market, this new avatar comes as a pleasant surprise. Its set of long colonnaded corridors house a number of outlets of well-known designers and upscale eateries visited by expats and well-heeled shoppers. As we sit in the cosy Elma’s Brasserie enjoying some French Press together with some sandwiches and scones, our ears perk up on hearing the line, “Even Sonia Gandhi comes here to shop.” Well then, this must be some market, we concede, but are glad that the politico’s visit — even if she does so, surreptitiously — was not coinciding with ours, for who would want stern-looking security guards around? Walking down this market, it’s evident that if you’re a discerning, tag-conscious shopper, this is the place to be. The prices in some places, we must point out, could be a little disconcerting for some, but look closely and you’ll find a lot more that’s not just stylish but also not too heavy on the pocket.

Artfelt

Upon entering Artesenia, we discovered that it was a good choice if you’re looking to add an artistic and informal touch to your home. This is the place where art and creativity seem to form a perfect blend in the charming artefacts on offer — be it prettily painted objects created out of tin and metal, including a variety of animals like elephants, camels and cats and human figures, besides cushion covers, bowls, mirrors and hangings, etc.

Another place that sure gets a thumbs up from many of its patrons is Navya that calls itself a ‘home accessories boutique store’. A look inside reveals a beautiful range of products that have been handpicked for those wanting to add a touch of ‘modern’ to their homes. And by that, we mean ‘very country, very English-y’ objet d’art. The attempt here is to create a certain storyline for each season — if it was flowers last year, this year it’s animals and birds, even cute little reptile designs on mugs, coasters, paintings, trays, linen and lots more picked up from across the world.

Remember The Shop that opened up in the Regal building in Connaught Place more than three decades ago? Yes, this was among the first outlets that introduced keen shoppers to the beauty of smart fabrics, cuts and designs. Well, for those of you who don’t want to go all the way there, Meharchand has a branch. This one, too, is beautifully laid out and offers a great shopping experience for those on the lookout for things unusual. And the list here, as always, includes quite a variety — from decorative items, ceramic crockery, cushion covers, table linen, curtains, bedding, soaps, incense sticks to clothing in lovely fabrics.

Going past a few eateries, picking up a few tikkas along the way, we discover another charming outlet called Play Clan — perfect for those who like creations inspired by our folk art and cultural heritage. Charming interiors reveal an interesting and playful combination of graphics and craft. And there’s quite a variety ­— besides trays, coasters and framed art, there’s illustrated clothing, unisex kurtas, bags, cushions, etc — all in smart cottons and canvas material.

Razzle-dazzle

For those who say they have enough jewellery and have bid adieu to the thought of picking up gold — given its prices that seem to go skyrocketing all the time — there are places like Art Karat. The branch here opens out an attractive range of semi-precious jewellery. Art Karat’s line of both, traditional as well as modern pieces, appeals to all age groups. You can take your pick from heavy to simple neckpieces, earrings, rings, maang tikkas, noserings, etc., created in edgy and bold as well as delicate lines.

Next door lies its sister-concern, the equally charming Katan Weaves that opens up a world of silks and cottons. Besides georgette and organza, there are fabrics that are a blend of both silk and cotton, perfect for the cool season. As the lady here says, attempts have been made to contemporise the Benarasi weave. The idea being that the young ladies who walk in here feel the fabric is for them.