Amisha Karmarkar | 25th October 2025
In the heart of Mumbai, a sea of activity unfolds every morning at Sassoon Dock, one of the city’s largest and most iconic fish markets. What makes this market stand out is the army of women who run it with precision, passion, and pride. Meet the women of Sassoon Dock, who are redefining the traditional fishing industry with their determination and entrepreneurial spirit.
A Day in the Life of a Fisherwoman
It’s 6 am, and the market is already buzzing with activity. Women of all ages, dressed in vibrant sarees, are busy sorting and selling fish to customers. Bhagyashree Yade, a 45-year-old fish vendor, has been working at Sassoon Dock for over 32 years after her marriage. “I’ve been doing this work for years,” she says with a smile. “It’s hard, but it’s honest work, and it allows me to support my family.”
These women are the backbone of the market, managing every aspect of the business, from buying and selling fish to handling the finances. Despite their experience and expertise, the women of Sassoon Dock face many challenges. The work is physically demanding, and the market is often crowded and chaotic. The women also have to deal with the uncertainty of the sea, which can affect the quality and quantity of the fish.
However, they’re not ones to be deterred. “We women run the market, and we’re proud of it,” says Leela Tandel, a fisherwoman. “We’ve learned the trade from our mothers and grandmothers, and we’ve developed a deep understanding of the business.”
The women of Sassoon Dock are a tight-knit community, supporting each other and working together to get the day’s work done. “We’re like family here,” says Bhagyashree. “We help each other out, and we make sure everyone gets a fair share.”
Bhagyashree’s day begins at 6 am, sorting and selling fish to customers. Despite the challenges she faces, she’s proud of her work and the independence it brings. “There aren’t any proper washroom facilities for women here in the early years, but from 3 years, they have provided proper washroom facilities for all the ladies,” she adds.
When asked about the difficulties of working in the market, Bhagyashree mentions the pollution in the water. “When the industry dumps waste into the water, we have to search for fish in the deeper waters. We also have to handle ice to keep the fish fresh,” she explains.
Despite these challenges, Bhagyashree and the other women at the market work together seamlessly. “We sell fish daily, and it’s all women here – women of all ages working together to run this market,” she says.
Bhagyashree also mentions that the government provides facilities for self-help groups and businesses, but they don’t have such facilities at the market. “Although the government provides facilities for bachat gat (self-help groups) and businesses, we don’t have such facilities here,” she adds.
Despite the challenges, Bhagyashree is determined to continue working and supporting her family. The women of Sassoon Dock are a shining example of empowerment through employment. By working together and supporting each other, they’ve created a thriving business that allows them to earn a living and build better lives for themselves and their families.
“We’re not just fish vendors; we’re entrepreneurs,” says Bhagyashree. “We’re proud of what we do, and we’re determined to succeed.”
Sassoon Dock is more than just a fish market; it’s a hub of economic activity that supports thousands of families. The market is a vital source of income for the women who work there, and it plays a critical role in the local economy.
The market is also an important part of Mumbai’s cultural heritage. It’s a place where people come to buy fresh seafood, and it’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
As the women of Sassoon Dock look to the future, they’re determined to continue working together to build a better life for themselves and their families. They’re exploring new ways to improve their business and increase their earnings, and they’re working together to address the challenges they face.
“We’ll keep working hard and supporting each other,” says Bhagyashree. “We’re the women of Sassoon Dock, and we’re unstoppable.”
Why always Fishermen not Fisherwomen?
The women of the Sassoon Dock are proof that women can excel in any industry, even those traditionally dominated by men. As Bhagyashree puts it, “Why always fishermen? Why not fisherwomen? We’re the ones who run the market, and we’re proud of it.”
Their story is a testament to the power of women to drive change and create positive outcomes in their communities. It’s a reminder that with the right support and opportunities, women can achieve great things and build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
The women of Sassoon Dock are a true inspiration, and their story is a must-read for anyone looking for a tale of determination, hard work, and female empowerment. Their ability to work together, support each other, and overcome challenges is a testament to the strength and resilience of women.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the women of Sassoon Dock will continue to thrive and succeed. They’re a shining example of what can be achieved when women are given the opportunity to work and support themselves.
As we celebrate the women of Sassoon Dock, let’s also recognize the importance of supporting women in business and entrepreneurship. By providing opportunities and resources, we can help women build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
The story of the women of Sassoon Dock is a reminder that with determination, hard work, and support, women can achieve great things and create positive change in their communities.
Amisha Karmakar is a media researcher and writer passionate about documenting stories of resilience, empowerment, and social change. Her work often highlights women’s voices in grassroots industries and explores how local communities shape India’s socio-economic fabric.
