An Inquest On the Mughal Creation (Macro Research)

The Heart Of Delhi has seen better days, but a journey through its narrow and crowded lanes still excites the common folks. We went on such a journey and were not disappointed at all. Even in today’s modern and fast-paced times, the history of this place has remained intact.

Nestled in the middle of the chaotic and walled city of Old Delhi, located opposite the Red Fort, , one of Delhi’s busiest, grandest and oldest shopping markets, “Chandni Chowk” was built in the 17th century, when Emperor Shahjahan shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi. It became the heart and soul of the commercial activities of the Mughul Empire and the legend continues till today. The market was once divided by canals to reflect moonlight and that’s how it earned its name, ‘Chandni’ (Moonlit). Jahanara Begum was the designer of The Heart Of Delhi.

The hype that has us feeling warm with pride - DELHI 6

Once famous for its fountains and shops, gradually the fountains of the chowk disappeared but the shops remained and continued to grow. Apart from the grand historical background, typical ride in the hand rickshaw, a walk around the crowded street and feeding my soul at the famous Parathe Wali Gali, left me quite amused.

While many believe that the hype around Chandni Chowk is limited to Jama Masjid and the Red Fort, the truth is that this locality is one of the most culturally diverse sections of India, both in times gone by and the modern era. Delhiites are lucky for the food and shopping options they have and a lot more than these bustling lanes.

  

  If you can deal with the crowds, this is one area you must visit!It is an unusual street that has several famous religious shrines, belonging to different religions, that coexist, lending the street a genuine cultural harmony. Starting from the Red fort, the area has Jama Masjid, Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, Hindu Gauri Shankar Temple, Christian Central Baptist Church, Sikh Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Muslim Fatehpuri Masjid dotting the landscape. 

  The market is a riot of colors – a true feast for the eyes!

The market is far from the conventional air conditioned malls and gorgeous shops with plush interiors in posh markets yet its importance can be boasted. Even though Chandni Chowk appears choked with congestion, it retains its historical character.The market, divided in several bylanes, is flooded with vivid varieties of clothes, perfumes, electronic item, jewelers, sarees, idols of deities, furnishings and silverware. There are lots of narrow lanes with little margin to spare, selling books, stationary, clothing, shoes, leather goods, electronic goods and what not. The market offers everything that shoppers might think to buy for embellishing oneself and home as well.

    All-night extravaganzas were part of Chandni Chowk’s unique heritage

Having travelled from the rich, luxurious history till today’s practical, commercial era, Chandni Chowk has covered a long tireless journey… countless hidden stories, captivating experiences, everlasting hopes all silently placed in this enchanting and charming habitat. Lots has been said and shared about Chandni Chowk, yet it will always have a subtle mysterious aura around it, for every thirsty traveller to unravel.