Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market (Crawford Market), Mumbai

The former Crawford Market is one of Mumbai’s oldest marketplaces, completed in 1869. It was originally named after Arthur Crawford, the first municipal commissioner of Bombay, while its present name honors the social reformer Mahatma Jyotiba Phule. Even today, many residents still refer to the market by its historic name.

The building itself is an impressive example of Victorian Gothic architecture adapted to India’s tropical climate. Designed by British architect William Emerson, the structure features red stone walls, decorative arches, and high ceilings. The entrance is decorated with sculptural reliefs of animals and agricultural scenes. The building was also notable for being among the first in India to be illuminated with electricity.

Spread across more than 22,000 square meters, Crawford Market is a lively maze of stalls and shops offering everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices to dried fruits, sweets, household goods, and imported products. Certain sections specialize in particular items, while other areas feature upscale shops and vendors selling unusual goods.