Bhubaneswar, Jan 9: As a major part of the Ekamra Utsav, the Night Flea Market, organized by the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) in celebration of Pravasi Bharatiya Dibas, opened its doors on January 5. Now on its fifth day, the Flea Market has become a vibrant attraction for visitors, dignitaries, and tourists, drawing large crowds eager to explore its unique blend of shopping, culture, and entertainment.
Running from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily until January 16, the market offers a chance for people to experience an eclectic mix of items, live performances, and the cultural richness of Odisha.
The Night Flea Market has transformed the Ekamra Utsav into a hub for emerging entrepreneurs, home-based businesses, and local artisans from across India. 33 Stalls are brimming with a diverse array of offerings, ranging from trendy clothing, footwear, and accessories to handcrafted home decor, organic food products, and health-oriented items. Handicrafts, gifts, rural bazar items (including finile and utensil washers), toys, looms sarees, handmade studios, and decor, printed embroidered clothes, handmade key lockets, photo frames, bags, art wear, ornaments, printed files and folders, art and paintings, fancy wears, gilded cocoon, handlooms, and many others are also available. The market has quickly become a one-stop destination for visitors to discover hidden gems, support local talent, and indulge in memorable shopping experiences.
What sets this market apart is its celebration of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. Each evening is enlivened with live performances by talented local artists, including singers, dancers, and folk performers. The market also hosts comedy shows, college band performances, and musical acts from emerging groups. These lively events have turned the market into a dynamic space where creativity thrives, fostering interaction between performers and the public, and infusing the atmosphere with energy and enthusiasm.
In addition to its commercial offerings, the Flea Market also honors Odisha's traditional craftsmanship. Master artisans demonstrate their skills, giving visitors the opportunity to witness the intricate processes of art forms such as terracotta work, Pattachitra painting, stone carving, and wood carving. These live demonstrations not only highlight the state’s artistic traditions but also offer a deeper understanding of the dedication and craftsmanship behind Odisha’s renowned handicrafts. The Flea Market continues to captivate visitors, who engage with the stallholders and artisans, creating a harmonious exchange of ideas and appreciation for local talent and creativity.
