Nestled in the old colonial buildings on Bazaar Road, Kochi, in the southern Indian state of Kerala, there is a small ecosystem: The All Spices Market. Here you’ll find ginger, pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla, you name it.
High-ceilinged warehouses are lit only by the sun streaming through somewhat elliptical windows. The sharp-smelling spice pricks you. And a low hum of husking and sifting soothes.
The air is rich with centuries of experience in procuring, organising and trading. After all, some of the spices originating here have crossed the Silk Road.
Hope: of parallel lines and congruous worlds
A wider view
Tireless. Champa, a long-time spice market worker.
Peppercorn laid out to dry, before it is bagged as black pepper.