The Mall Culture – Boon or Curse

Delhi appears to be becoming the most happening city in the country. Of course, there has been tremendous development in terms of infrastructure and lifestyle of the people. The clear reflection of this fact can be seen due to the rising number of malls in the city. The mall culture is tightening its grip on Delhi to an extent that that by end of 2008-09 around one lakh sq.ft. of Delhi will be covered by malls. This is clear indication of the fact that the number of oniomaniacs have definitely risen in the past two decades.

Shopaholic's utopia is the term given to the malls of Delhi. Although half of the population in these malls are in for window shopping, or just want to while away their time, but the striking fact is that there numbers are going up every year. The easiest way to enjoy the air condition comfort, one-stop family entertainment arena and availability of all sorts of merchandise under one roof are the USP's of these malls. Malls today have become more like a battleground, where the brands fight out for the consumer's attention. And what's more, the people seem to be loving it, moreover asking for more.

With the numerous mall constructions going on in the city, it might be heartening for a person to realise that his or her city is developing. But is this exactly the scenario??? Have you ever realized the 'unplanned expenditure' that is incurred by an outing to such an enticing place. Have you given a thought that when there is a dearth of homes of the poor who are forced to live on roads, the space used up by these malls could be utilized for a better cause. The prices of land is soaring to the skies, and its becoming impossible for people to make both ends meet. At this time, the land that is of no use except leisure, after a mall has been constructed, can be used for residential purposes. With the world being hit by climate change that will result in mass destruction, these space could be utilised for agricultural production or for planting trees, which is the need of the hour. It is a sad story that people are succumbing to these lucrative attractions, but nobody tries to look beyond the horizon.

We should take the initiative do something about these issues which is a concern for one and all humans. One should not get blinded by equating the mall culture to a happy and developing world. Its an issue we need to ponder upon and look for a solution.