Weekly markets, or bazaars, are not merely places of transaction; they represent the heart of the community, serving as vibrant spaces where commerce and social interaction are intricately woven together. These markets are dynamic hubs where the exchange of goods takes place alongside the exchange of culture, relationships, and values. In the bustling atmosphere of the 4th Mile Friday Bazaar in Dimapur, we can observe these various forms of exchange, from traditional barter to money transactions and social exchanges like gift-giving and reciprocity. At the core of any weekly market is the exchange of goods. In the Fourth (4th) Mile Bazaar, cash is the most common medium of exchange, which is either done through paper money or by online transaction. One of the most common sights in today’s market space is the images of the barcodes for UPI (Unified Payment Interface) for a smooth transaction. People come from different parts of Nagaland, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur to sell a wide variety of goods from fresh fish, vegetables, and fruits to clothes, household items, and even livestock. The transactions here are swift, with vendors and customers bargaining over prices, and the market is constantly filled with the sounds of exchange. Thousands of transactions occur in minutes, illustrating the marketplace’s vital role in the local economy.
However, beyond the monetary exchange, barter still plays a significant role. In some instances, people exchange goods without using money. For example, a vendor selling vegetables might trade with someone offering handmade crafts or other local products. This form of exchange is more about fostering trust and maintaining relationships than making a simple transaction, highlighting the importance of reciprocity in the bazaar. Vendors often extend small gestures of goodwill, such as offering an extra piece of fruit or providing a discount to a regular customer. In return, customers might increase their frequency of visits or spread positive word-of-mouth.
Gift-giving, though informal, is also present in the market. This can be seen in the way vendors sometimes offer free samples of their goods, such as a piece of meat or a handful of spices, especially during festive seasons or as a way to introduce new products. This reinforces the social bond between vendor and customer, encouraging loyalty and a sense of mutual respect. These exchanges are not driven by immediate profit but by a desire to build strong social relationships, which in turn strengthen the fabric of the community.
Locating the Field Site:
Positioned beside the junction of the 4th mile traffic point and the National Highway 29 in Dimapur, the 4th mile weekly market comes alive every Friday, which is an important part of the local economy. The market is situated beside the Central Jail lane in the 4th Mile area, and a key landmark is its proximity to the Dimapur Airport (the only commercial airport of the state). It’s a central hub where people gather every Friday to purchase everything from freshly caught fish to exotic jungle meats, ranging from beef and pork to more unconventional offerings like dog meat. Vegetables, fruits, and locally grown produce fill the stalls, ensuring a variety of fresh options for shoppers. Alongside food, you'll find second-hand clothes imported from Korea and the US, passed through Delhi, and then sold in bulk to local vendors who distribute them across Nagaland. Newer clothes are sold wholesale, catering to those looking to buy in bulk. There are also accessories, household goods, and culinary tools essential for the preparation of traditional Naga delicacies like smoked meats and fermented foods. The market is not just a place for buying and selling but also a social hub, where people gather, gossip, share news, and reconnect with friends and family. The buzz of conversation and laughter adds to the energy of the marketplace, creating a sense of community and belonging. The bazaar’s crowded nature reflects its importance; it’s often packed, especially on Fridays, with locals and visitors alike, all coming together to exchange goods and foster relationships. For the vendors, the market is not just a place of commerce but also a place of sustenance. To operate in the 4th Mile Bazaar, vendors must contribute to the upkeep of the space. They pay taxes to the local council, cover the costs of electricity and lighting, and hire cleaners to ensure the market stays presentable. These contributions are not just costs; they represent an investment in the continued success of the market, which in turn supports the local economy by providing a steady stream of income for small businesses. The economic impact extends beyond just the vendors and buyers, creating a ripple effect that benefits the wider community.
Notes from the Field:
In a conversation with Miss Tovili, a vendor selling second-hand clothes, I learned that these contributions to the market’s upkeep are not just a formal requirement but an essential part of ensuring the market functions smoothly. Miss Tovili explained that the fees she pays to the local council cover essential services such as lighting and cleanliness. These financial contributions help ensure the market is well-lit, maintained, and pleasant for both vendors and customers. While these expenses add to the cost of doing business, she emphasised that they are seen as an investment in the market’s success, ensuring that it remains a thriving and vital space for commerce and social interaction. This exchange of money for services highlights the interconnectedness of the vendors’ contributions and the continued sustainability of the market, benefiting the entire community.
In conclusion, the 4th Mile Friday Bazaar is not only a marketplace but a microcosm of social exchange, a place where the traditional and modern worlds collide, where money and barter coexist, and where reciprocity and gift-giving enhance human connections. It is a critical part of Dimapur's economic and social fabric, serving as a lifeline for local businesses, a meeting place for the community, and a dynamic example of how commerce can support cultural ties and strengthen community bonds.
Degree of Thought is a weekly community column initiated by Tetso College in partnership with The Morung Express. Degree of Thought will delve into the social, cultural, political and educational issues around us. The views expressed here do not reflect the opinion of the institution. Tetso College is a NAAC Accredited UGC recognised Commerce and Arts College. The editorial team includes Chubamenla, Asst. Professor Dept. of English and Rinsit Sareo, Asst. Manager, IT, Media & Communications. For feedback or comments please email: dot@tetsocollege.org
