The market was known as stock-exchange-cum-business centre for traders before the sub-continent witnessed partition

Maharaj-Gunj, Srinagar’s heritage market was established in the mid-19th century by Dogra ruler Maharaja Ranbir Singh. The market was once known as the epicentre of business wherein customers from north and south parts of the valley would throng to purchase their desired goods at reasonable rates.

The market was known as stock-exchange-cum-business centre for traders before the sub-continent witnessed partition. In pre-1947 traders from Amritsar, Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi and parts of Central Asia used to visit here to expand their markets.

Keeping its geographical location in consideration, the traders from other parts of the sub-continent used to reach here via the waters of Jhelum as the market is situated on its banks. Water transport was used to import and export goods from Central Asia. From north Kashmir parts, the goods were ferried in boats to Maharaja Gunj.

Earlier this market was named Sri Ranbir Gunj however it was later on changed to Maharaja Gunj. In 1865 Maharaj Gunj Beopar Mandal was formed to augment its trade and strengthen ties to outside parts. According to elders, a major portion of the market was allotted to those businessmen belonging from Hoshiarpur and Gujranwala. During Maharaja Pratap Singh’s rule, the Maharaj Gunj turned into an epicentre of business activities in Central Asia.

‘Trade Directory of India’ authored by then prominent trader Teerath Ram Sethi published in 1932 in Gujranwala Pakistan states that Maharaj Gunj figured as one of the best and biggest markets before partition.

The market is located in a densely populated downtown, popularly known as Shaher-e-Khaas. The area is just 5-km away from the city centre and is considered as the core point in the city as the first inhabitants of Srinagar lived here. It is also considered a seat of resistance as most anti-Government protests took place here.

While touring the market and its peripherals, the historical establishments reflect the art of ancient times. The houses here are mostly made up of wood and are believed to be constructed from the late 19th to 20th century.

Locals blame official apathy for abandoning the historical market. They said the market had grown into an important commercial hub as Kashmir’s first modern market which had supplied all kinds of commodities Kashmir and beyond.

“This market is ignored by the Government instead it should have been preserved for its historical value. This market has lost its glory and concerned traders right now are discouraged and dejected," a local trader said.

However, as per officials, the development and beautification of Maharaj Gunj is in the pipeline and it would be brought on the tourism map soon. “There are many projects including restoration and beautification of shrines, markets, parks & gardens etc in Shaher-e-Khaas in the pipeline and Maharaj Gunj is one among them which would be attended and restored soon," officials said.

They added the development and beautification of these places will be ensured under Smart City Project, a dream project of the Government to make Srinagar the best living city.