People traveling to and out of Hyderabad can now shop from wayside stores that have clay pots and earthenware brought over from Kota, Rajasthan. Those going out for day trips to Vikarabad, Siddipet, and Warangal can spot these vendors on either side of the road selling their ware.
On a normal day, the roadside shops mostly sold fruits and vegetables. However, of late, thanks to increasing demand for clay and earthenware, these spots are being taken over by vendors selling pots, pans, glasses, etc. They occupy a position beside the fruit and vegetable vendors as it gives them more visibility.
The sellers make their sales from mini-open trucks and they have a variety of pots and pans in black and brown. While some are bought by motorists en route, some buyers pick up stuff in bulk. However, the vendors have no issues. They focus more on sales than on questioning the purpose of their buyers.
While all vendors have their ‘spots’, some vendors share that they intend to move closer to the city whenever possible, mostly to places that have fewer traffic restrictions. The vendors say it is mostly first-timers who have questions about clayware regarding the maintenance and whether they need to be used on a gas stove or wood fire.
Nowadays, clayware is also being sold by several online aggregators and the prices are competitive. For example, a clay pot could cost anywhere between Rs 400 and Rs 700 on roadside stores, while it’s available for Rs 200 online. But the actual bargaining and checking of different items give a totally different feeling insist vendors.
One can also look out for sellers at Trimulgherri, Medchal, Habsiguda, and on the way to Ramoji Film City.