Basics of Little India, Penang

Thursday, May 17 2012

Wednesday, 09 June 2010 15:40

WHILE our previous feature on George Town’s Little India showcased its history and the importance it plays to reconstruct a shared space for the Indian diaspora (read here), this week our slideshow focuses on how the zone also fulfils the basic necessities of its people.

On any given day one may visit the area to purchase daily needs, from spices to meat to religious cornucopia, etc. Lining the streets are what the locals call ottu kedai, which is a hole-in-the-wall shop selling anything from newspapers, drinks, vegetables, and other little necessities. They were originally run by businessmen from South India to cater to the requirements of Indian immigrants and their families.

Lying among these sundry shops are other shops that retail items that are ubiquitous to any Little India around the world, ranging from gorgeous fabrics, to stainless steel pots and pans, jewellery and, of course, the spicy and delicious banana leaf cuisine.

George Town's Little India has remained one of the few areas in Penang that has retained the old world charm and an overwhelming sense of nostaligia. Read below for blogs that highlight the many unique experiences experienced in the area.