Mumbai, India
Dadar Station Market
I
he Flower Market has been a part of Sydney’s market tradition since the First Fleet in 1788. The market has moved a number of times to accommodate the growing metropolis. The new locale is a half-hour train trip out of the city, and although it offers an impressive range of flowers and greenery, it is sadly lacking the cosmopolitan vibe of its sister market, “Paddy’s.” If you are not after huge quantities of flowers, Paddy’s at The Haymarket near Central Station has more flair and energy. A wide variety of flowers are grown on local farms within a few hours of the Sydney Markets and fresh cut flowers are brought to the markets from these farms daily.
ndia tends to assault the senses—every one of them—with everything it has to offer. It is a country of contrasts and paradoxes, filled with the best and the worst of the world. Being greeted with a fragrant garland of jasmine—a form of welcome—was just the jolt I needed after the 24 hours of travel to Mumbai. This country commemorates occasions—especially temple celebrations and weddings—with over-the-top displays of flowers. The Dadar Station Market did not disappoint. The heady fragrance and brilliant colors were intoxicating, but the real fascination were the vendors who were busy constructing garlands worn by brides, grooms, temple gods, and politicians. These handcrafted beauties were meticulously strung together like beads onto thread in the most creative combinations.
Jane Kelly Yandell
Alison Abbott
Sydney, Australia
Sydney Flower Market
T
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LEAF MAGAZINE
spring 2012