By Sydney Alexandra, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
This Sunday, the Navratri Bazaar returns, bringing with it the colours, sounds, and warmth of community connection. Hosted once again by mother-daughter duo Sita Jayaraman and Tarini Sharma, the bazaar has quickly become a cherished tradition that blends culture, entrepreneurship, and celebration.
“We want to continue to spread the word,” says Jayaraman. “What truly matters to us is that people feel excited and welcome to come as we continue to build community.”
This year’s bazaar will feature a mix of new vendors alongside familiar favourites from last year’s event. Among those returning is Divya Balakrishnan and her 12-year-old son, Keshav, of DJ’s Treats, a family-run business that creates homemade dog treats inspired by their dog, DJ.
Reflecting on their first experience at the bazaar, Balakrishnan recalls: “Last year’s experience was so heartwarming. We met so many families, shared our story, and felt the joy of being part of something larger than ourselves. It wasn’t just about selling our homemade dog cookies — it was about the conversations we had and the way we connected with families and fellow vendors. That feeling of community and belonging is what inspired us to return this year.”
For Balakrishnan and her family, the Navratri Bazaar is more than just a marketplace.
“What keeps bringing us back is the sense of community, the support for small businesses, and the opportunity to teach our son the value of connecting with our culture while also learning the spirit of entrepreneurship,” she says. “The bazaar is more than stalls and shopping, it’s an event that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together, creating a space where local businesses shine alongside cultural celebration.”
The event also provides a cultural homecoming for many families in the community. “Personally, it feels like home. Professionally, it gives us a platform to share our small family venture while learning from and supporting other vendors who are on similar journeys,” Balakrishnan shares. “It’s a celebration of who we are as a community. Our heritage, creativity, and togetherness. It’s about passing on cultural pride to the next generation while also supporting one another in our business journeys.”
Looking ahead, Balakrishnan hopes the bazaar continues to grow and bring more community members together to celebrate and build meaningful connections
“We hope the bazaar flourishes, bringing in more families and small businesses each year. It has the potential to be more than a marketplace — a vibrant hub where culture, tradition, and entrepreneurship meet.”
For anyone thinking of becoming a vendor, she encourages them to embrace the experience wholeheartedly: “It’s not just about selling your product — it’s about sharing your story and being embraced by a warm, supportive community. You walk away with more than sales; you walk away with connections, encouragement, and pride in being part of something cultural and meaningful.”
Whether you come to shop, to celebrate, or simply to connect, the Navratri Bazaar offers something for everyone. This Sunday promises to be yet another memorable gathering of culture, tradition, and togetherness.
The Navratri Bazaar takes place this Sunday, September 14, at St. Luke’s Community Centre (3114 Dundas Street West, Oakville) starting at 4 p.m.
To get tickets, see the link provided: Navratri Bazaar Tickets
