Pune: With the monsoon in full swing and the festive season on the horizon, the city is witnessing a surge in indoor flea markets and curated lifestyle exhibitions. Organisers reported an enthusiastic turnout, particularly from micro-entrepreneurs, home-based businesses, and women-led brands looking to capitalise on the pre-festive shopping rush.Traditionally held outdoors, these markets are moving into more climate-controlled spaces. “This is the first time we are hosting indoor flea markets inside malls,” said Seema Dholi, organiser at Pune Flea. “We have launched 2–3 day exhibitions at Tribeca Mall and Aeromall, and this model will extend into our festive schedule later this year.”The optimism is shared by small-scale sellers. Dina Agarwal, who runs a handmade candle business, said her recent participation in a monsoon-themed cafe sale exceeded expectations.
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“The response was so good that we have already signed up for exhibitions in September,” she added.Major community platforms are also seeing a spike in demand. Sonia Agarwal Konjeti, founder of PULA (Pune Ladies), noted that the demand for stall space is currently outpacing supply. “We have four exhibitions lined up in the run-up to Diwali. Our August event is already sold out. Most of our sellers are local, covering everything from home décor and gifting to gourmet food,” she said.The vibrancy of the Pune market is also attracting talent from neighbouring districts. Payal J, a creator from Satara, has travelled to the city specifically for the season. “I’ve had a great response here in the past. This year, I’ve prepared specialised resin Rakhi trays and diyas for the upcoming festivals,” she said.Beyond malls and convention centers, local cafes—particularly in areas like NIBM and Aundh—are transforming into community hubs. Many are hosting weekend farmers’ markets and workshops alongside flea stalls to create a “lively, boutique atmosphere,” according to one NIBM-based cafe manager.For shoppers, these curated markets offer a break from mass-produced retail. “I recently visited a flea at a local cafe and found unique handicrafts I hadn’t seen elsewhere,” said Ria Ghatge, an Aundh resident. “I picked up hand-painted ceramics and coasters, and I definitely plan to hit more exhibitions as Diwali approaches to finish my gift shopping.”
