9 hours ago
Set up in 18th century, bazaar now deals in milk products and spices
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Kolkata: The Orphanganj Market in Kidderpore, with its origin dating back to the early 18th century, stands as a significant reminder of colonial Calcutta's social welfare initiatives, particularly concerning the Anglo-Indian community.
The present form of the market, however, took shape over the past 150-odd years.
The market's establishment, with its architecture following the open-brick style and spread over 36 bighas, is closely tied to the Bengal Civil and Military Orphan Society. The society was formed after British officials discovered disturbing conditions affecting orphaned or abandoned children, particularly those of mixed Anglo-Indian heritage.
This society subsequently established two schools, including the Free School in Kidderpore, to support these 'Eurasian' orphaned or abandoned children, said retired bureaucrat and former Rajya Sabha MP Jawhar Sircar. Several years ago, Sircar served as the collector of the market, thanks to his role as the South 24 Parganas ADM.
Plots in Kidderpore were granted to the society by the British govt to generate revenue for their welfare activities.
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The market's proceeds were directly used in supporting the society's charitable work.
It was found that earlier, the market was owned by one Collier. Later, the erstwhile British govt bought this market and started the work of expanding it in 1780. The responsibility was given to Captain Becker. The market formation began around 1820, but it slowly achieved its form over a span of the last 150 years.
This market is mainly divided into three parts: Government Orphanganj Bazar, Kali Bazar, and Chamaria Building.
It controls almost all the markets of South 24 Parganas. At present, the market is mainly known for its milk-based products, with the butter and ghee mandis and spices being the main ones. On the periphery, multiple consumer item trading, including perfumes, is also carried out.
The market's informal economy, where unaccounted stalls were set up, has operated without formal accounting systems for the past four decades. An effort was made in 2007 by the Left Front govt to develop it into a mall, and multiple plans were mooted where around 400 traders were summoned. However, it did not materialise. At present, the administration wants a full survey of the ownership and the losses suffered by the traders.
This will also establish the exact number of owners of the market, said sources.
Sudipto Das)
