Seasonal wild vegetables have begun arriving in Thane markets as the monsoon brings produce from the hilly areas around the city, drawing customers seeking traditional flavours and locally available food. Tribal women vendors are selling the vegetables at several busy locations, including Jambli Naka, areas around Thane station, the flyover and bus stand, and along roadsides.
According to a report by Loksatta – Thane, vendors have brought a range of monsoon vegetables, including shevgyache mohar, kartoli, shingada, takla and different varieties of alu. The produce is available only during the rainy season and has attracted customers who wait throughout the year to buy it.
Prices currently vary by vegetable. Takla is being sold at Rs 20 to Rs 30 per bundle. Vadi-cha alu, also known as teri, is available at two bundles for Rs 50, while bhajicha alu is being sold at three bundles for Rs 50. Kartoli and shingada are priced at Rs 80 for 250 grams.
The vegetables are brought into the city from surrounding hilly areas, where they grow during the monsoon. Their arrival has added a seasonal layer to Thane’s regular urban food markets, with customers visiting roadside and transport-linked selling points to purchase the produce.
The market also provides a seasonal source of income for tribal families. Tribal women continue to collect and sell wild vegetables in the city, making the monsoon trade an important part of their livelihood during the season.
The current availability of these vegetables will depend on the monsoon season and the supply brought by vendors from the surrounding areas.
