Biratnagar, July 25 -- Every day, the streets, intersections, and open grounds of Biratnagar come alive with hatiyas-traditional weekly markets that remain deeply embedded in the socio-economic and cultural fabric of the Tarai. Far more than just open markets, these gatherings are vital bridges between local farmers and urban consumers, bypassing middlemen and preserving an age-old way of life.

From dawn, farmers arrive at hatiyas on ox-carts, bicycles, rickshaws, or simply carrying goods on their shoulders. They spread out their fresh produce such as organic vegetables and fruits and other products like rice, wheat flour, lentils, eggs and milk.

"The hatiya is not just about trade, it is an essential part of our social and cultural lif...