Fruit auction keeps Yemeni old tradition alive in Barkas

On a weekend, the sky is cloudy and light rain is falling. Bicycles and push carts are arranged in the playground, while a group of men crouch down, observing and selecting figs, guavas, and other fruits from baskets placed on the ground.

The auctioneer calls for bids on the fruit baskets. Individuals in the crowd vocally announce their offers, and the highest bidder secures the baskets.

This has been a routine operation for decades near the Barkas ground auction center. Each morning at approximately 8 am, men from the local area and its vicinity bring baskets filled with homegrown mulberries, guavas,



and water apples to the market for auction.

Barkas is an Arab community with strong ties to Yemen in the Middle East. The ancestors of the residents settled in Hyderabad during the Nizam's reign. They were skilled horsemen adept in warfare, which led to their invitation to the Hyderabad State.

As per Historians of Yemeni community arrived in the city in the early 18th century and were enlisted in the Nizam's army. "Our ancestors were recognized for their combat abilities and joined the Nizam's forces, later advancing to various roles within the administration," stated Abdullah Bahamed, a local resident.