Markets have always served as more than mere commercial venues. Even centuries ago, the ancient markets of the Vijayanagara Empire in South India were designed to include special stadiums where visitors could watch animals fight or indulge in assorted recreational activities. When Lucknow was ruled by the Nawabs of Awadh between the 18th and 19th centuries, music, dance and art were integral features of the local bazaar.

Korum mall at Thane has dance performances lined up on every Sunday (4pm to 8pm) till August 5th;and they held rainwater harvesting workshops recently. Pic/Anita Anand