Mulji Jetha Market: Mumbai’s Oldest Surviving Textile Hub

Tucked in the dense and lively neighbourhood of Kalbadevi in South Mumbai lies a textile market that has quietly and consistently played a vital role in the city’s fabric trade. Mulji Jetha Market, located just a short walk from Marine Lines station, is known to generations of Mumbaikars as a place where cloth meets commerce and tradition meets the everyday bustle of trade. With rows of shops crammed with textiles, it remains one of Mumbai’s most trusted destinations for fabric buyers, be they boutique owners, wedding planners, fashion students, or regular shoppers. Over the decades, the market has become more than just a place to buy material; it has woven itself into the story of Mumbai.

A Market Rooted in Legacy and Trade

Mulji Jetha Market is named after Mulji Jetha, a noted businessman and philanthropist from the Gujarati trading community, whose name continues to be associated with legacy and generosity. The market was established in the late 19th century during a period when Mumbai, then known as Bombay, was emerging as a stronghold of commerce under British colonial rule.

As the textile industry in the city began to expand, there was a growing need for a structured marketplace where merchants could trade cloth and related materials in bulk. Mulji Jetha Market rose to meet that need and, over time, became one of the city’s earliest organised textile trading hubs.

While the exact date of its founding isn’t clearly documented, commercial directories from the early 20th century include the market in their listings, indicating its presence for well over a hundred years.

It has long served as a cornerstone of Mumbai’s thriving textile economy, particularly during a time when cloth mills and handlooms were central to the livelihoods of many Indians. The market allowed local traders, tailors, designers, and families to access a wide variety of fabrics in one place, making it both practical and culturally significant. Even today, many of the shops are family-run and have been passed down through generations. The shopkeepers are known for their knowledge and expertise, often guiding buyers on fabric selection, pricing, and usage. There’s a strong sense of continuity and commitment that keeps people returning.

A Fabric Maze Full of Colours, Textures, and Traditions

Visiting Mulji Jetha Market is a journey through colour, texture, and time. The narrow lanes of the market are lined with hundreds of small and mid-sized shops, most of them overflowing with neatly stacked rolls of fabric. Each shop displays swatches at the entrance, some hang fabrics from the ceiling, while others display materials on large wooden counters. The market offers a wide range of textiles that reflect both regional craftsmanship and modern design preferences.

At any given time, you can find plain cotton, hand-block prints, soft silks, shimmering georgettes, structured crepes, pastel chiffons, and heavy brocade weaves. Whether someone is looking for everyday material for home wear or rich fabrics for weddings and festive clothing, the market rarely disappoints. Designers often visit to source fabrics for their seasonal collections, as do students from fashion schools looking for inspiration and affordability. Many of the fabrics available here are locally made, while some are imported or designed to suit contemporary fashion trends.

Interestingly, while the market is best known for its traditional and bridal offerings, it has also started to stock newer fabric varieties in recent years. These include digitally printed patterns, blended linen, and even a growing demand for organic and sustainable cloth options. A few stores now showcase bamboo cotton, handwoven natural fabrics, and eco-conscious dyes, catering to the rise in demand for ethical fashion. Though primarily a wholesale destination, the market also welcomes retail shoppers. Many buyers prefer to come here for the hands-on experience, touching the fabric, comparing textures, and speaking directly with vendors about price, maintenance, or suitability for their specific stitching needs. Unlike online platforms, the buyer here becomes part of the selection process. 

Why Mulji Jetha Still Matters in Mumbai’s Textile Scene

Despite the rise of shopping malls, e-commerce, and fast fashion, Mulji Jetha Market has held its ground. It remains an important resource for designers, costume creators, tailors, and everyday people who prefer quality, affordability, and variety. The market continues to support small businesses and artisans by offering them access to raw materials at fair prices. This plays a quiet but meaningful role in sustaining livelihoods and promoting craftsmanship.

Its central location adds to its appeal. Since it is situated near other markets like Crawford Market, Zaveri Bazaar, and Mangaldas Market, visitors often combine their trip with a full day of shopping and exploration. Mulji Jetha Market has also started evolving with time. Some traders have now begun using WhatsApp to send photos to clients or update them on new arrivals. Digital payments have become common. While the charm of handwritten bills and traditional measuring tapes still exists, there is a quiet adoption of modern methods that helps the market stay connected with younger buyers.

Mulji Jetha Market stands as a living piece of Mumbai’s trading history. With its rich legacy, wide variety of fabrics, and deep connections to local commerce, it continues to be relevant in today’s fast-changing world.