Retail Plus
Chennai
Retail Hub: Old World Charm
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With only a sprinkling of high-rise buildings here, quaint Rattan Bazaar seems to be untouched by time
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Rattan Bazaar. Does the name ring a bell? Probably not! But for old timers in Chennai, this place will forever hold memories of endless shopping and great bargains. If you walk down the Rattan Bazaar road, you would find that much hasn’t changed here; the place is yet to wake up to the mall culture.
On one side of Rattan Bazaar, you’ll find a string of little shops that huddled in close proximity, wooing you with tempting bargains on CDs, footwear etc. Sri Krishna Sweets almost literally stands out at the end of this interesting group, a reminder that times have changed! On the other side of the street, you’ll find electrical shops of all sorts. For those looking out for decorative lamps, choices are aplenty here! Check out MM Lighting, Italian Lights or other similar outlets here (the chandelier you have been searching for may just be hanging there!). Wallpaper World is another outlet that may add colour to your interiors. You also find a couple of Titan outlets and the good old Gani & sons for your timekeeping solutions.
Handloom House, with its rich heritage, is one place you must make it a point to visit. Mr. Syed Sajjad, Chief General Manager, Handloom House says, “Founded in 1956, ours is one of the oldest shops here and we stock saris from Kashmir to Kanyakumari under a single roof here!” Speaking further on Rattan Bazaar, he says, “There were times when business flourished here. But with the transfer of the main bus stand to Koyambedu, the market has shifted fully to T Nagar. Still, people looking out for quality handlooms come here to shop.” The other old timer, T Mangharam is a chief attraction for the shopping crowd. Started way back in 1966 as a 700 sq feet wholesale dealer, now the shop sprawls across a whopping 25000 sq feet.
Mr. Rajesh Chimandas of T Mangharam says, “Name any fabric and you’ll find it here. Ours is a full-fledged ladies’ outlet and with the annual discount on now, we give genuine discounts to our customers. As the customer gets value for money, they keep coming back for more. We being the third generation into this business, we have earned the trust and loyalty of the people here.” True to his word, the place was swarming with enthusiastic shoppers.
You also have Fashion Centre, Lilarams and a Raymonds seconds shop to suit your clothing needs. As for kids, drop into Toy House and indulge your little one. If you happen to visit Rattan azaar, you’ll find no snarling traffic, no shoving crowds, just shopping at ease and in peace!
CATHERINE JONA GILON
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Retail Plus
Chennai
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