For the last 50 years Udaipur streets continue to have that timelessness, history and culture combined here. The old architecture and robust local living remain a pull to the locals as well as the visitors, embodying the living heritage of city.
The City of Lakes in Udaipur, and it is a one-of-a-kind place that contains modern life fused with history and culture. It is recognized for its elegant palaces, calming lakes, and lively markets. Over the years, Udaipur has changed a lot, but there is one street in Udaipur that still possesses its old world charm despite the rampant urbanization. This street is known as Hathi Pol Bazaar and is called the ‘soul of Udaipur.’ Hathi Pol serves a deft reminder of the era gone by and evokes charm in every manner.
1.A Peek into History
Hathi Pol Market is a Hathi Pol bazaar in Udaipur that brings with it the remains of the traditional Udaipur. It is a narrow but energetic street located close to Udaipur’s famous City Palace. Hathi Pol in Hindi translates to “Elephant Gate” and this name was given for a reason. The street was once a grand entry way through which elephants would march into the city. This stunning street encompasses all the rich components of Hathi Pol’s history, from the Mewar dynasty until now. Unlike Hathi Pol’s surroundings which have seen immense development, this area remains untouched, combining old architecture and culture with the modern world.
2.The Architecture: A Cultured Fusion
The most eye-catching aspect of Hathi Pol Bazaar is the architectural features. The street contains many havelis that have old carvings, carved jharokhas, and large elaborate flaunting fronts. These havelas, which were home to noble families and rich traders in the past, now contain small shops, handicraft centers, and local businesses. It is constructed in the Rajputana architectural style and it emphasizes symmetry and craftsmanship, as well as local sandstone and marble quarried in the region.
It can be truly said that Hathi Pol Bazaar is a living museum that has preserved its culture for centuries. Even in their dilapidated state, the buildings tell a story of elegance and past glory. The narrow lanes that can barely accommodate two cars on a side, are lined with businesses that are hundreds of years old. What makes the street more distinct is the fact that unlike the other parts of the city, there are no modern buildings and glass fronted shops, deepening the sense of history and atmosphere compared to the busy and modern markets.
3.A center for Traditional Crafts and Culture
Hathi Pol Bazaar is not only an eyeful, but also a cultural center. The street is famous for traditional Rajasthani crafts such as miniature paintings, textile weaving, silver jewelry making, and leather works. Artisans and craftsmen have set up shop here for years and have continuously passed down their skills to each new generation. The shops boast vibrant colors and intricate design alongside the unmistakable scents of leather and raw dyes.
Hathi Pol derives its name from sculptures of elephants that sit at the entrance of Hathi Pol Gate. It is known for several prominent shops, one of them being Sadhna, a cooperative society of Rajasthani craftsmen and artisans, which was set up in 1988. Sadhna’s main focus is to enhance women power by facilitating local artisans to display their work. The shop equally features embroidered clothes and leather bags alongside home decorations made by the local craftsmen.
4.The Life of Hathi Pol Bazaar’s Market
What really distinguishes Hathi Pol Bazaar from the other streets is its juxtaposed rhythm of life. Although several years have gone by, the street continues to function on its own clock, completely indifferent to the fact that life is moving on at a much quicker pace. Like every other marketplace, the vendors here also put in their work and open their shops at the crack of dawn. With a symphony of rattling bangles, quarrels, and the rare honks of scooters, vendors at Hathi Pol Bazaar proudly showcase their products.
Apart from being a wonder for shoppers, the street is also a food lover’s paradise. Traditional Rajasthani foods such as dal baati churma, ghewar, and kachoris are beautifully crafted and served at small eateries and sweatshops. There are so many snacks that are freshly made, and the smell alone is so tempting that it’s almost impossible to avoid. Of the many sweetshops Jagdish is the single most famous one and has gained fame and reputation over 70 years for their preserved mouth watering sweets.
5.A Living Legacy
Featuring a historical deep-rooted market, Hathi Pol Bazaar reflects Udaipur’s brilliant magnificence along with its intricate culture. Traditions were heavily interwoven in the lives of the people in the past, and Hathi Pol memorializes that phase of life. In today’s world, when modernization is rapidly taking center stage, the vintage spirit of Udaipur is symbolized through Hathi Pol, which is a true testimonial of the city’s ethos and charm.
Whether a seasoned traveler or a novice, everyone enjoys a walk in Hathi Pol Bazaar as it stands as an epitome of nostalgia capturing the true spirit of Udaipur. Locals hold immense pride and affection for this place as it acts as a representation of their roots and stands as a cherished part of their life.
Change is the only permanent thing in life, except for Hathi Pol the buzzing existence of Udaipur remains thrilled around the bazaar. The mere thought of it evokes warm feelings, and as Udaipur expands, we can only hope that it continues to remain Hathi Pol Bazaar the city of lakes gem.