MB Maps: Grant Road Bhaji Gully

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Shankar Sheth Lane, more commonly known as Grant Road bhaji gully, gets its name from Jagannath “Nana” Shankar Sheth. The same 19th century businessman, philanthropist and educationist was so influential in developing this part of the city, and owned so much land in the Grant Road area, that even Nana Chowk, not far from the market, is named after him. He was also, along with Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy, founder of the Indian Railway Association, so it is fitting that as soon as you step off Grant Road Station’s western exit, you’re already in the market.

Like Dhobi Talo and Colaba’s Strand market, Grant Road is a concentrated collection of all the produce and provisions you need in a kitchen–traditional local vegetables, fruits, masalas, snacks, “English” vegetables, staples like “kanda batata” along with more eclectic fare such as vaal sprouts (also known as the horse bean) and ripe jackfruit. The neighbourhood is a favourite with Gujaratis, and the offerings reflect this. You find colocassia leaves for patra and gumberry for pickles on the street. In the stores, you find snacks like chorafari khakhra and sweet pickles like Kathiawadi chhundo. The community’s sense of enterprise has also passed on to the vendors. If you are a frequent customer, or make a large enough order, they will deliver practically anywhere.

To find your way around, download our map here. To view pictures, click on the slideshow above.