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By:

Asha Tripathi

14 April 2025 at 1:35:28 pm

The Allure of Street Shopping Over Malls

Street shopping is not just buying — it’s bargaining, bonding, and breathing life. Shopping has always been more than just a way to buy things. It reflects lifestyle, culture, and even emotions. In today’s fast-paced world, two different worlds of shopping coexist — the glimmering, air-conditioned world of malls and the colourful, lively lanes of street markets. Both have their own essence, yet when we look closely, we realise that while malls appear more sophisticated, the real life, energy,...

The Allure of Street Shopping Over Malls

Street shopping is not just buying — it’s bargaining, bonding, and breathing life. Shopping has always been more than just a way to buy things. It reflects lifestyle, culture, and even emotions. In today’s fast-paced world, two different worlds of shopping coexist — the glimmering, air-conditioned world of malls and the colourful, lively lanes of street markets. Both have their own essence, yet when we look closely, we realise that while malls appear more sophisticated, the real life, energy, and connection lie in street shopping.   Malls are like modern-day palaces of consumerism. As we step inside, we are greeted by polished floors, soft lighting, pleasant music, and an atmosphere that almost feels unreal. Every shop is neatly arranged, every brand fighting for our attention with attractive displays and offers. Shopping in a mall is a comfortable experience — there is no dust, no crowd pushing, and no chaos. You can walk leisurely from one store to another, have a coffee in between, watch a movie, and spend the whole day indoors without even realising how time flies.   For many, malls are a symbol of modernity and status. They offer quality assurance, branded products, and the comfort of air-conditioning. You don’t have to bargain, you don’t have to worry about getting cheated, and everything comes with a bill and a warranty. But somewhere in all this perfection, something feels missing — that human touch, that rawness of real life. Malls often make shopping look mechanical — polished, predictable, and slightly emotionless.   Now let’s step outside those glass doors and into the streets—where the real magic begins.   Street shopping is like diving into a sea of colours, voices, and stories. The moment you enter a busy marketplace, you feel the pulse of real life. The shopkeepers calling out their offers, the aroma of street food, the chatter of people, the energy in the air — everything feels alive. Street markets are where creativity meets affordability. You find handmade jewellery, ethnic clothes, quirky bags, and items you never even thought existed — all at throwaway prices!   And the best part? Bargaining. It’s not just about getting a lower price; it’s a lively exchange between the buyer and the seller. It’s a small battle of wits, ending with a smile and mutual satisfaction. In that short conversation, you connect with another human being — something malls rarely offer.   Street shopping also tells the story of hard-working vendors and small artisans who depend on their daily earnings. Every item on those stalls carries the sweat, skill, and dreams of people who create or sell them with passion. There is honesty and simplicity in their effort. It is this raw, unfiltered reality that gives street markets their soul.   In contrast, malls can sometimes feel like artificial bubbles — detached from the outside world. Everything is designed to look perfect, but it’s also expensive, repetitive, and often lacks originality. The same brands, the same products, the same discounts — no surprise, no adventure. Street shopping, on the other hand, is unpredictable. You never know what you’ll find. That’s what makes it so exciting.   Beyond the products, street markets give us something more valuable — an experience of real human connection. You hear laughter, you see bargaining, and you feel the rhythm of life moving all around you. You learn patience, observation, and the art of choosing wisely. Street shopping teaches you how to appreciate value, not just price.   Of course, street shopping comes with its own set of flaws. The crowds can be exhausting, the heat unbearable, and the quality uncertain. But those who truly love it will tell you that this chaos has its own beauty. It’s a slice of everyday life — imperfect yet real.   Malls, in comparison, may look polished, but they are isolated worlds of glass and glitter — where smiles are polite but not personal. Street markets, however, are bursting with emotions — of joy, struggle, laughter, and togetherness.   In the end, the difference between malls and street shopping is like the difference between a perfect photograph and a candid picture. The perfect one may look flawless, but the candid one feels alive. Malls may represent aspiration, but street shopping represents reality.   And perhaps, that’s why no matter how many malls rise in our cities, the narrow, noisy lanes of street markets will always have their charm. Because that’s where life breathes — in the voices of vendors, in the sparkle of roadside jewellery, in the scent of street food, and in the joy of finding something wonderful at a price you proudly bargained for.   (The writer is a tutor based in Thane. Views personal.)

Creating Generational Wealth

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In a world where financial security often feels elusive for many families, one important truth stands out: it only takes one person to change the financial narrative of a family for generations. By thinking about money in new ways, taking well-calculated risks, and implementing a sound financial plan, anyone can become the catalyst for building generational wealth, breaking cycles of financial struggle and insecurity.


What is Generational Wealth?

Generational wealth refers to assets - such as property, investments, and businesses-passed down from one generation to the next. These assets help families maintain and grow financial stability over time. Historically, many families, especially those with limited financial resources, have struggled to build and sustain wealth. But within these families, one person who dares to adopt a new financial mindset can change the course for future generations.


How to Create Generational Wealth?

The first step to building generational wealth is thinking about money differently. This involves moving beyond the traditional earn-spend-save mentality and instead focusing on how money can create opportunities. It means understanding the importance of investing in stocks, mutual funds, real estate, businesses, and developing multiple income streams.


Simply saving money is no longer enough. The key lies in making strategic investments and allowing money to grow over time through smart financial decisions.


Take Risks

But thinking differently is only the beginning. Taking risks is where real wealth-building potential lies. Many people hesitate to take risks with their money, afraid of losing what they've worked hard to earn. However, it’s crucial to recognize that all great financial success stories involve calculated risk-taking. Whether investing in stocks, mutual funds, real estate, or businesses, smart risks based on research and strategy can yield substantial rewards. Risk-taking is the engine of financial growth.


Take Help from Financial Advisors

Success depends not only on taking risks but also on having a solid financial plan. Essentially, three factors matter: the right mindset, the right planning, and the right execution. Working with financial advisors, educating future generations about money, and setting up mechanisms like trusts or long-term investments ensure that the wealth created is sustained.


A key difference between the wealthy and others is that the wealthy don’t hesitate to seek help from experts.


Consulting an educated, full-time advisor who uses their experience, expertise, and wisdom to guide you is invaluable.


The message is simple: it only takes one person to break the cycle and take proactive steps toward creating generational wealth.


If previous generations haven’t bestowed this privilege upon you, it’s time to take it upon yourself. It’s up to you to become that person in your family who thinks differently, takes risks, and puts a plan in place to create generational wealth for the future.


The author is a Chartered Accountant and CFA (USA). Financial Advisor.

Views personal. He could be reached on 9833133605.)

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