Local Exchange showcases shoreside markets other than the bigger market in Ponnani harbor.
Local exchange is a vital aspect of life for the small-scale fishing community at Ponnani harbor. Besides the commercial fishing operations, local fishermen use smaller boats, known as “vallams” or traditional fishing boats, to capture fish in the coastal waters. These fishermen depend on the daily fish catch for their livelihood and employ techniques like gill netting and trawling, which suit the agility of their boats.
Shoreside Market Local fishermen gather at this smaller market with their catch.
After catching fish, fishermen often skip the main harbor, selling instead at designated shoreside points. Here, they trade directly with fishmongers, wholesalers, and vendors in lively, informal markets. Meanwhile, buyers and sellers actively negotiate over prawns, squid, mackerel, sardines, and reef fish, ultimately creating a vibrant, local atmosphere.
Touch Down The smaller fishermen are approaching the shoreside market with their fresh catch
Shore Arrival Crowds gather at the shore as boats return from the sea, filled with the day’s fresh catch, signaling the start of the trading activity.
Besides maintaining their boats, fishermen must skillfully untangle nets, a task requiring patience and expertise. Gill nets often tangle with debris, seaweed, and fish, requiring careful untangling and repair. This process ensures nets are ready for the next trip, while caught fish are sorted by size—larger ones go to market, and smaller ones are discarded or consumed locally.
Descent A majestic bird of prey swoops down with precision as a fisherman works nearby, both focused on their tasks.
Tangle Fishermen meticulously untangle their nets, preparing for another day on the water at Ponnani Harbor.
Local women and fishermen traditionally transport fish in cane or palm-leaf baskets. As they carry them from docks to markets or consumers, these sturdy baskets ensure balance over uneven ground and crowded areas. Consequently, they play a key role in the local exchange.
Hustle Fishermen at Ponnani Harbor work in unison, hauling their catch and preparing for a new day of fishing.
Load Balancing large baskets of fish, fishermen make their way from the shore, marking the busy routine.
Hovering above, kites and eagles are often seen at the harbor. Over time, these birds have learned to associate the baskets of fish with a potential meal. As a result, kites and eagles in fishing markets swoop down to snatch fish from the baskets, sometimes successfully. This spectacle is, therefore, a common sight in Ponnani, with the birds watching closely for an opportunity to grab a fish from the daily catch.
Returned The fisherman came back with an empty basket.
The role of local exchange extends beyond the simple act of selling fish. It reflects the hard work of small-scale fishers, sustaining families and boosting the local economy. Their skills—from netting to transport—show deep sea knowledge and a commitment to tradition.
Hungry Strike A kite makes its move, trying to snatch a fish from the basket below.
Copyrights: All the photos and text in this post are the copyright of Arun Narayanan T Palakkad and Creative Hut Institute of Photography and Film. Their reproduction is forbidden without the explicit approval of the rightful owners.
