Thieves Market in South Mumbai is one of the largest flea markets in India. The word Thief means " Chor " in Hindi-Urdu. Chor Bazaar has a fascinating history that spans more than 150 years. Apparently, it was originally called Shor Bazaar, meaning "noisy market", but "shor" became "chor" because of how the British mispronounced the word. Eventually stolen goods started finding their way into the market, resulting in it living up to its new name! The main avenue is Mutton Street, flanked by rows of little antique shops that look like musty attics and sell just about anything at bargain prices from old ship parts, grandfather clocks, gramophones, to crystal chandeliers and old English tea sets antiques at throwaway prices, including colonial-era lamps, Art Deco clocks and trinkets of every kind. A store called Mini Market also offers old Bollywood posters for sale. Others offer authentic Victorian furniture, wonderful for browsers, antiquarians and restorers. Although bargains are sometimes staggering, most of the shop owners are pretty street smart and haggling is considered mandatory. Be prepared to rummage around if you want to buy something!
If you don’t want to shop, this walk can still be fun. Apart from Chor Bazaar, the walk will take us to several places of general interest. You’ll see Gol Deoul, the circular Shiva temple, and gain an understanding of the Shiva cult. You’ll visit the bustling Null Bazaar (fruits, vegetables, meat and fish) and meet the Kolis, the original fishing community of Bombay. You will also get a rare glimpse into the life of the Bohras, a community of minority Shia Muslims. In addition, the tour provides an opportunity to observe authentic Muslim cooking first-hand.