At first glance, the name Bou Bazar startles many first-time visitors. Some joke that it sounds like a marketplace for brides. A short walk inside quickly dispels the myth. Bou Bazar is not about brides; it is about everyday life.

Located a two- to three-minute walk from the Uttara Center Metro Rail Station in Diabari, the market feels worlds away from Dhaka’s traffic-clogged streets. Amid modern apartment blocks and wide roads, it offers a rare glimpse of a traditional rural hat, where trade takes place under the open sky.

The market begins forming in the morning, grows busier through the afternoon and continues into the evening. Vendors arrive with fresh vegetables, fruit, fish, eggs and poultry, much of it sourced from nearby villages. Unlike many city markets, Bou Bazar has earned a reputation for produce that is fresh and often chemical-free, drawing buyers from across Uttara and beyond.

What sets it apart is the presence of women vendors. Many are homemakers selling vegetables grown in their own yards or fields.

“This market helps us earn without leaving our families behind,” said Rahima Begum, arranging gourds on a mat.

“I bring what I grow at home, and what I earn supports my household.”

For many women, the market offers more than income. Without formal shops or heavy investment, they take part in a grassroots economy built on trust and regular customers.

Fresh fish is another major draw. Catches from nearby rivers, canals and wetlands arrive early, attracting morning shoppers.

“The fish here is fresher than in regular markets,” said Md Abdul Latif, a resident of Uttara Sector 3. “I come because I trust the source.”

Vendors estimate that more than 300 people visit daily for groceries alone. By late morning, the vegetable section is crowded. Buyers even travel from Mirpur and neighbouring areas to shop early.

Bou Bazar’s story, however, is also one of transformation.

Not long ago, Diabari was largely open land. Many Dhaka residents were unfamiliar with the area. Uttara felt distant from the city centre, and traffic discouraged casual visits.

The introduction of the Dhaka Metro Rail changed that. With the Uttara Center station now operational, Diabari is easily accessible from Motijheel, Farmgate, Mirpur and beyond. What once required careful planning is now a convenient journey.

“Before the metro, coming to Uttara felt like a big decision,” said Nasir Uddin Shahed, who works in Motijheel.

“Now we can come after the office or on weekends without worrying about traffic.”

Improved connectivity has reshaped the area. Evenings and weekends now draw families, students and young professionals. Open space is a key attraction in a city where playgrounds are scarce.

“This is one of the few places in Dhaka where children can run freely,” said Raj Nusrat, visiting with her two sons. “They can play, enjoy the rides and spend time outdoors.”

As daylight fades, Bou Bazar shifts character. The grocery trade slows and the food court takes centre stage. A second wave of visitors arrives.

Families gather at small tables. Students crowd around food carts. The scent of grilled meat and spices fills the air, while balloons and toy stalls add to the festive mood.

Dr Tuhin Mia recently visited from Mirpur with his wife and two daughters.

“We let the children enjoy the open field and rides first,” he said. “Dhaka is always crowded. Here, they get space. Then we head to the food court.”

The family tries to visit at least once a week.

“It has become our regular outing.”

The food court has grown into one of the area’s main attractions. From duck bhuna and chicken chaap to pizza, seafood and street snacks, the variety appeals to a broad crowd.

Seafood stalls offering crab, squid, lobster and sea fish have also drawn attention.

“You don’t expect seafood like this in Uttara,” said a university student visiting with friends. “It feels like a short food trip without leaving the city.”

Clay cups of tandoori tea complete the experience, keeping visitors seated long after their meals.

Local residents say the growth has created housing and income opportunities for many families. Diabari is no longer just an open field. Restaurants, food carts and recreational rides — including Ferris wheels, boating and kayaking — have turned it into an urban leisure hub.