Kurla: The Secret World Of Footwear Chor Bazaar

In Kurla, a bustling chor bazaar for footwear thrives, operating under the cloak of superstitions and consumer ignorance. The market’s intricate web includes the resale of stolen shoes and the sale of first copies of branded footwear, catering to a diverse clientele.

The organized gang behind the market strategically capitalizes on the belief that losing shoes brings good luck, exploiting this superstition to facilitate the theft and resale of footwear. Victims often attribute their missing footwear to mere misunderstandings, unaware that they’ve fallen prey to a well-coordinated scheme.

Under the guise of offering branded footwear at affordable prices, the market peddles first copies imported from China, meticulously replicating popular brands to deceive even discerning customers. The range of products available is extensive, encompassing various styles and types of footwear to cater to diverse preferences.

Located in the narrow lanes near Kurla railway station, the market operates under different sections, with the outer areas primarily selling first-copy products and the inner sections dealing in stolen goods. Referred to as the Customs Market or second-hand market, the inner part facilitates the resale of stolen footwear under the guise of legitimate transactions.

The network of shoe thieves strategically targets religious sites and festivals, such as temples and pandals, to pilfer footwear, which is then funneled into the market for resale. The involvement of beggars and drug addicts in procuring stolen footwear adds another layer of complexity to the operation.

While some shopkeepers deny any involvement in illicit activities, claiming to operate within the bounds of the law by purchasing and refurbishing second-hand footwear, the reality painted by law enforcement tells a different story. The market’s reach extends beyond Kurla, with branches established elsewhere to expand its operations.

Despite the market’s illicit activities, its existence underscores the complexities of urban life and consumer behaviors, highlighting the need for greater vigilance and regulatory oversight to curb such fraudulent practices