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# 12 Street Performances and Festivals of Old Delhi (Old Delhi Series)

0 Old Delhi comes alive in a riot of colours, aromas and music during its many street festivals and performances. These celebrations reflect the area’s living culture and bring people together. Chandni Chowk Bazaar The bustling Chandni Chowk market explodes with extra verve during festivals. Do you know crowds swell, makeshift stalls mushroomed and performances pop up?  You’ll be amazed that on Eid, the area gets decked up as people throng for mithai, clothes and streetside kebabs late into the night.  Not only that but during Diwali and Dussehra, Ram Leela plays, puppet shows and magic shows enthral visitors on the streets. Celebratory spirit fills the air. Red Fort Performances  The lawns of Red Fort host vibrant cultural shows on Independence Day and Republic Day. Do you know the Prime Minister gives his iconic speech here? You’ll be shocked at the elaborate dance and music tableaus performed by costumed artists to celebrate history and diversity. Not only that but the fort is illuminated, and traditional instruments like nagada drums are played filling the night air. Don’t miss soaking in the festive patriotic fervor. Phoolwalon ki Sair Festival This unique festival held in autumn saw a floral pankha procession in honour of a Nizamuddin saint’s shrine. Do you know florists and musicians lead a parade from the dargah to Mehrauli escorted by Delhi police?  You’ll love the flower-decked elephant ornamented with embroidered palkis, chhatris and chandeliers. The flower bazaar at the endpoint comes alive too. It reflects Delhi’s syncretic culture with both Hindu and Muslim communities participating. Qutub Festival  In November-December, the Qutub complex is the venue for performances ranging from Sufi music to classical dances. Do you know artists and musicians who perform in the backdrop of the Qutub Minar?  You’ll be charmed by the illuminated minaret and the magical setting as visitors soak in myriad cultural offerings for free. The streets of Old Delhi burst with joy during festive times. Makeshift stalls, laughing crowds, twinkling lights and pumping music fill the air. Performances from storytellers, dancers, musicians and actors lend a magical carnival air. For a short time, all daily worries disappear in the frenzy of celebrations.  Festivals in Old Delhi give everyone a chance to come together, setting aside differences. Through its public revelries, Old Delhi keeps age-old traditions relevant. The sights, smells and energy of these lively festivals truly capture the enduring spirit and cultural dynamism of the historic walled city. Don’t miss Old Delhi’s vibrant festivals that give you delightful insights into its living heritage and dynamic culture.

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#11 River Yamuna Tales (Old Delhi Series)

0 The River Yamuna is intertwined with Delhi’s identity throughout history. Tracing its course through time reveals how this sacred river nourished civilization and remains the lifeline of Old Delhi. Legends of the Yamuna  The Yamuna originates from Yamunotri glacier as revered in Hindu texts. Do you know it is considered the maternal half of Lord Krishna?  You’ll be amazed to know ancient myths state Yamuna’s water turned poisonous after Krishna was struck by an arrow while resting on its banks. His death imbued the river with divinity. Not only that, the Yamuna is worshipped as a goddess during festivals like Chhath Puja. Exploring the stories around Delhi’s mythical river goddess is fascinating. Medieval Significance  By the Sultanate era, camps and fortresses dotted the Yamuna’s west bank. Did you know Siri Fort was built alongside it by Alauddin Khilji for supply access?  You’ll be shocked that during the 1857 Revolt, Indian soldiers used the river’s cover to recapture Delhi from Europeans who then blew up bridges to the walled city.  Not only that but Akbar’s new capital Fatehpur Sikri also owed its existence to the River Yamuna flowing nearby. The strategic river nourished Delhi’s medieval era capitals.    Mughal Magnificence Mughal Delhi flourished on the Yamuna’s fertile banks. Do you know Shahjahan built the Red Fort and Jama Masjid along its edge? You’ll be amazed that during the Phoolwalon Ki Sair festival floral pankhas are offered to the river remembering the courtesans welcomed here. Not only that but the Yamuna was central to Mughal leisure like floating gardens, canals, and promenades along the waterfront. The river breathed life into the empire. Old Delhi Lifeline Today, the Yamuna remains crucial for Delhi as its primary water source. Do you know Old Delhi depends on the vital waters flowing under its bridges?  You’ll be shocked that festivals, cattle bathing, and cremation ceremonies along the ghats persist in old customs.   Not only that but the Yamuna nourishes local vegetable farms and provides livelihoods along its banks even as pollution threatens its future.  Understanding the Yamuna’s cultural significance and ties to Old Delhi is critical to protecting this living heritage. The life-giving river’s timeless tales must inspire its revival.    The River Yamuna is much more than just a waterway cutting through Delhi. Its waters have nourished civilization here for centuries. Generations have depended on the Yamuna, built their lives alongside it, and worshipped it as a goddess. Sadly, today it is polluted and struggling. But it is not too late to undo past mistakes.  Reviving the Yamuna river requires protecting its flow, cleaning its waters, and respecting its sacred spirit once again. Its timeless tales remind us that this ancient nurturer of Delhi deserves a second chance. If cared for, the Yamuna can enrich our lives for generations to come, just as it has done so for millennia past.

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Culture & Heritage
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#10 Forgotten Crafts of Old Delhi (Old Delhi Series)

0 Once upon a time, Old Delhi’s winding lanes echoed with the sounds of skilled artisans crafting masterpieces in tiny workshops. Though modernization has hushed many of these trades, some remnants survive in pockets.  Rediscovering these forgotten arts and their ageing ustads offers a rare glimpse into the area’s living heritage. Kite-Making: Threading Creativity into the Skies Lal Kuan bustled with the now rare sight of kite-makers once. Do you know the original kite-battling competitions used to happen here? You’ll be shocked to know only one or two kite shops remain where delicate paper is marked and hand painted into colourful designs before being framed with bamboo strips.  Not only that, the special patang thread is coated by hand in a paste of rice, ash, and crushed glass for kite-fighting battles. This meticulous craft once saw kites soar over Old Delhi’s roofs but is now an odd relic. Dariba’s Jewellers: Masters of Intricate Jewellery  Do you know Dariba Kalan was once famed for its jewellery artistry? Craftsmen here could magically transform plain metal into ornate pieces studded with precious gems in intricate filigree and meenakari styles unique to Delhi. You’ll be amazed that a few of the original jewellery shops remain where the click-clacking of hammers shaping delicate bangles and chains can still be heard distantly.  Their ancient tools and secrets of the trade are fading as younger generations shift away. Kinari Bazaar: Weaving the Finest Zari Decorations Kinari bazaar was once renowned for zari and kinari – the fine metallic weaving adorning bridal outfits. Do you know real pure zari was interwoven with silk using hands and tiny shuttles? You’ll be surprised to find a few workshops still carrying forward the fading technique, though cheaper machine made zari has replaced the original craft. Watching the tedious process reveals the sheer artistry behind the dazzling textiles, a far cry from mass produced garments today. Lost Wonders of Urdu Calligraphy  The art of ornate Urdu calligraphy once flourished in Old Delhi’s scribal alleys. Do you know calligraphers trained for years to master elegant nastaliq script using bamboo quills and natural inks?  You’ll be amazed to know the lost technique of khattati involved carving Urdu poetry into marble slabs. Special tools were used to etch each letter delicately. Though fewer Urdu stone carvers and calligraphers remain today, some still keep the tradition alive in Sui Walan, painstakingly practising their hypnotic craft. Fading Chikankari Embroidery  Chandni Chowk was renowned for chikankari, the fine white embroidery on fabric from Lucknow. Do you know artisans did intricate stitching to form flowers, patterns and verses with nothing but a needle and thread? You’ll be surprised to find some small shops selling exquisite chikankari pieces. But this dazzling craft is fading as modern printed substitutes replace hand embroidery.   Old Delhi’s living legacy of handicrafts and artisans who kept age-old arts alive is slowly dimming. Visiting the few remaining practitioners provides a poignant reminder of the area’s remarkable creative heritage before it disappears into memory.

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#9 Culinary Heritage of Nizamuddin (Old Delhi Series)

0 Food and faith intertwine in Nizamuddin, given its Sufi history and Mughal roots. The area is a treasure trove of distinct flavours and culinary traditions passed down through generations.  Food tells a story. And in Nizamuddin, every bite narrates a tasty tale. This Delhi corner has an awesome food tradition stretching back centuries. The recipes here are seasoned with legends and influenced by Sufi saints and royal Mughal courts. Walking the crowded lanes, tempting aromas draw you to eateries running for generations. The air is filled with the sizzle of kebabs, the scent of simmering curries, the sweetness of warm halwa. Venture off the beaten track into Nizamuddin’s inner alleys to find food that not only nourishes your body but also touches your soul. Let this neighbourhood take you on a delicious journey through history. Legendary Eateries of Nizamuddin  Nizamuddin is known for its many eateries offering authentic Mughlai and Sultanate-era treats. These joints dish out recipes perfected over centuries. Do you know Karim‘s has run since 1913, spanning 4 generations? Their melt-in-the-mouth nihari, biryanis, and kebabs are total comfort food.  You’ll be shocked to know Al Jawahar has been going strong since 1926. Sink your teeth into their signature shami kebabs and kormas. Not only that, Zaitoon started in the 1950s and is loved for its flaky parathas and nourishing halwas. These iconic eateries bottle the old-world charm of Nizamuddin. Sufi-Inspired Vegetarian Delicacies Nizamuddin Dargah area has special vegetarian dishes influenced by Sufi traditions. Do you know bakarkhani is a spiced circular bread offered at the Dargah as holy food? You’ll be amazed by the Director’s Cutlet – lentil cutlet stuffed with minced nuts and raisins created for filmmakers shooting near the Dargah. Not only that, there’s aloo chaat topped with crisp boondi, sweet chutneys, curd and spice masalas. It’s the ideal vegetarian street snack. These flavorful meatless dishes reflect the Dargah’s ethos of inclusiveness and simplicity. Food of the Festivals  Nizamuddincuisine reflects its lively festivals and ‘Urs’ devotional gatherings. You’ll be shocked to know that on Mahavir Jayanti, the Jain community makes and distributes a hearty dal served with rice, rotis and veggies. During the Urs, local homes make the Sufi-influenced dish aush – wheat and chickpea broth infused with healing spices and served with kheer. Not only that, Ramzan brings specialties like shammi kebabs, fried seviyan, and shahi tukda – bread pudding laced with saffron and nuts. The area truly comes alive during festivals with aromatic foods that unite people. Nizamuddin’s cuisine reveals its multi-faith history and cultural essence through food. From ancient recipes perfected over centuries to dishes carrying spiritual meaning, this area is a true hidden gem for gastronomy enthusiasts and foodies alike wanting to discover Delhi’s flavorful past. 

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#8 Celebrating Religious Diversity in Old Delhi (Old Delhi Series)

0 Old Delhi is a microcosm of India’s religious pluralism. Numerous places of worship belonging to different faiths dot the old city. This co-existence of sacred sites reflects Delhi’s long tradition of religious tolerance. Historic Temples of Old Delhi Do you know Old Delhi has ancient temples dating back to the 10th century? Some of the most iconic are Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, Gauri Shankar Temple, and Kalkaji Temple. You will be amazed to know that the Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, built in 1656, is made entirely of red sandstone. Its bird and animal motifs represent the Jain philosophy of peace.  Not only that, the ancient Gauri Shankar Temple was built in 800 AD and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located near the massive Red Fort, this temple is an oasis of peace amidst the chaos. Furthermore, the Kalkaji temple honors the Hindu goddess Kali and draws thousands during the Navratri festival. Built in 1764, it exemplifies architecture from the Maratha reign. Magnificent Mosques of Old Delhi  Old Delhi is home to the 17th-century Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, built by Mughal ruler Shah Jahan.  Do you know it can accommodate 25,000 worshippers? You will be awed by its grandeur, with towering minarets, red sandstone and marble sections, and a wide courtyard. You will also be impressed by the architectural brilliance of the Fatehpuri Masjid, built by Fatehpuri Begum in 1650. It features lavish jali work, marble inlays, and domed towers.  Not only that, but the little-known Arabic Mosque, also called the Quwwat-ul-Islam is the oldest in Delhi, dating from 1198. Its imposing gateway reveals early Islamic construction. Gurdwaras – Sikh Shrines of Significance Some of the most significant Sikh Gurdwaras are found in Old Delhi. Gurdwara Sis Ganj honors the martyrdom site of the ninth guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur. Do you know where Gurdwara Rakab Ganj stands, where his body was cremated? It is an important pilgrimage spot, housing sacred relics. You will also be amazed by the sheer scale of the Bangla Sahib Gurdwara, which feeds 35,000 daily through its community kitchen. Its shimmering golden dome and sarovar make it an oasis of peace. Not only that, Gurdwara Damdama Sahib was the residence of the tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh, while in Delhi. It commemorates his profound spiritual legacy. Historic Churches of Old Delhi St. James Church, built in 1836, is the city’s oldest church, located within Kashmir Gate. British officials, soldiers, and their families prayed here during colonial rule.  Do you know the Cathedral Church of Redemption is the largest church in Delhi? Built in 1935, its soaring dome, bell tower, and arched porches are architecturally brilliant. You will admire the unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles of St. Stephen’s Church, constructed in 1860. Its tranquil vibe makes it perfect for introspection. From ancient shrines to elegant mosques and gurdwaras, Old Delhi’s sacred sites give you a chance to experience India’s religious harmony first-hand.

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#7 Forgotten Gardens of Old Delhi (Old Delhi Series)

0 Nestled amidst the chaotic lanes of Old Delhi are some hidden green gems – obscure gardens lost in time. Built by Mughal nobility centuries ago, these tranquil gardens provided relief from the bustle of walled Shahjahanabad. Old Delhi is known for its crowded bazaars and historic monuments. But tucked away behind high walls are gardens from centuries past. These leafy havens were built by Mughal royalty seeking an escape from city life. Though hidden, these secret green spaces still remain. Let’s explore their magic. Within their gates, we can discover Delhi’s horticultural history. Though overshadowed by their more famous counterparts, Old Delhi’s secluded gardens are portals into the city’s past.  The Color Palace Garden Located within the grounds of Red Fort is the Rang Mahal Garden, meaning “palace of colors.”. Do you know it was built around 1650 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan?  You will be delighted to know that Rang Mahal was the residence of the Emperor’s wives and mistresses. It has a signature Mughal garden design: geometric flower beds, water channels, and marble fountains. Not only that, the pavilion has intricate decorations like mirrorwork, gilding, and colorful enamel tile mosaics, justifying its name. Don’t miss exploring this hidden gem. A Soothing Green Escape Near the walled city is Qudsia Bagh, a rare 18th-century garden built by Qudsia Begum. Do you know she was the mother of Mughal Emperor Ahmad Shah? You will be surprised to know that within its high walls, Qudsia Bagh was an exclusive royal retreat for the queen. Away from the city bustle, the 25-acre garden provided a peaceful haven.  Stroll through its shady pathways and find the imposing gateway, a mosque, and a small summer palace nestled amidst fruit orchards and emerald lawns. The Forgotten Charbagh Located north of the walled city near Roshanara Road is Roshanara Bagh. Do you know it was built by Mughal princess Roshanara in the 17th century? You will be amazed that, unlike typical Mughal charbaghs, Roshanara Bagh has just one central water channel instead of the quadrants. Lime trees and parakeets dot their pathways. Not only that, but the ruins of Roshanara and other Mughals’ graves also lie within its premises. Once a splendid garden retreat, only traces of Roshanara Bagh’s former glory remain. Discover these vestiges of Old Delhi’s verdant past and enjoy the unexpected peace found within. Away from the crowds, these gardens are the perfect place to slow down and reflect. Old Delhi’s hidden gardens are green time capsules. They take you back to the days of Mughal rule, when emperors and queens strolled through flower beds and fountains. These secret gardens remind us that beauty and nature can flourish even in the busiest cities. All you have to do is look for it.

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Lifestyle
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4 Interior Design Ideas to Boost Employee’s Devotion! 

0 A workplace needs an appealing and thoughtful design to build an environment where the employee’s mind can be productive and devoted. Employees’ second home is their company; therefore, the interior design should be less distracting and fully functional.  There have been numerous developments in office design, where interior designers bring innovative remodeling and fads to office interiors. Every year, we have witnessed the latest interior design patterns, identical to the ever-growing corporate culture.  Are you willing to boost your employee’s productivity? If so, these are the top interior design ideas to implement that facilitate a positive work culture! The workplace interior design trend is about obtaining and maintaining the equilibrium of simplicity and perfection! Boost an office space’s security and comfort can easily be obtainable by fundamentally aligning furniture with an amalgamation of an imaginative touch. Nevertheless, there’s a slender line between going overboard and balancing everything.  Brand-new office spaces demonstrate how they utilize the commercial interior to establish the space’s tone, complying with minimal designs and a color scheme representing their brand. Do you have constrained space? If yes, community tables might be precisely what you need to boost employee’s productivity! These are mainly shared desks, which promote a collaborative workplace where employees can work in groups.  Such workspaces are highly desirable in the tech industry as several programmers work closely to solve an issue. Moreover, these are cost-efficient options that can impact productivity and boost collaboration. In the realm of workplace interior design, the choice of shapes & materials is vast. Therefore, you may consider including circular ensembles or strips throughout one primary wall that could assist in setting the company’s tone. Moreover, you may consider incorporating tiny elements that look like a gorgeous office environment to work peacefully. You may consider adding wooden planks as isolated desks for an enhanced visual charm.  Some lush greeneries, natural building materials, or a touch of natural elements result in a positive sensation in the workplace. You may adorn your office interiors with green plants, which are well-known to boost productivity while maximizing your space’s charm. The oxygen-rich air from keeping houseplants is just as important as their visual appeal. Stress at work? Don’t say that again!  The modern workforce demands an aesthetically appealing workplace, so office design concepts are getting abundant consideration. 

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Fashion
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Ready to Look Modish? 4 Trending Haircuts to Try in 2024! 

0 Although the year has just begun, we have observed hair trends expected to dominate in 2024. Some big styles that will be released this year have been foreshadowed for us over the last few weeks on red carpets, online platforms, and runways.  Even though this year’s hairstyles are unquestionably daring and distinctive, there is plenty for everyone. Therefore, unless you’re in the market for a couple of embellishments (baby steps), an updated haircut, or an entirely distinct look, you’re fortunate because we’ve compiled a list of 4 hair trends, we think will be popular in 2024.  Are you trying to find an incredibly fashionable and vintage haircut? Following that, curtain bangs are a suitable hairdo option. These bangs are a particular type divided in the center, framing one’s face softly on each side. Slightly twist little portions of the bangs from your face to create the curtain look. Make delicate, discreet, pointed cuts with the scissors around the bangs’ borders.   One of the main trends for the year is going to be hairstyles inspired by jellyfish. This involves the jellyfish haircut, which rose to the top of the online search results. Distinctly differentiable, sharply contrasting layers characterize the jellyfish’s appearance.  The short layer usually ends at the chin in a bob fashion, while the extended layer continues down to the waistline. The bottom layers of the bob are curved outward so that they look like the tentacles of the underwater animal. At the same time, its leading edges are curled inward to give it an angular appearance similar to the crown of a jellyfish. A pixie is a tiny hairstyle that suits women of every generation and requires minimal styling. This stylish haircut’s trimmed length, sides, and back part distinguish it. A layered pixie cut is an excellent choice if you would like to stand out and feel particularly brave. You’ll look distinctive and self-assured with this easy-to-maintain, sophisticated hairstyle that adds texture and bounce. Considering the current upsurge in the popularity of bob haircuts—the Italian bob, which is currently the most fashionable hairstyle—2024 would be the ideal year to finally have this significant haircut. The chin-length hair in the European-inspired style is gently sculpted to fall around the face. To choose the ideal haircut that accentuates your face shape, hair type, and unique style, remember to visit a salon for a consultation. Stay stylish! 

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Food
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A Pitha-Puli Aficionado? 3 Types of Lip-Smacking Pithas Bengali’s Prepare during Poush Sankranti!  

0 Bengalis solemnize their harvest festival as “Poush Sankranti” on the final occasion of the Poush months, which falls on 14/15th January every year. It is an excellent time of the year, especially if you travel to West Bengal or reside in the state. Therefore, trying the lip-smacking winter sweets that Bengali mothers prepare has been the cherry on top.  Bengalis relish this Poush Sankranti to their extreme by binge-eating lip-smacking pithas. From Patishapta and payesh to dudh-puli, preparing these delicious sweets is their culinary heritage and cultural principles since these have been handed down. If you’re a true pitha-puli fan, these are the three types of yummiest pithas to try. A traditional Bengali dessert termed “Dudh Puli” is prepared during Poush Sankranti. Its outermost layer is made of rice-flour sweetened dough whose texture is delicate & chewy. For the “Dudh Puli” filling, they use a blend of jaggery and coconut, where the jaggery gives the sweetness and the coconut provides a nutty & profound flavor. A pinch of cardamom powder can also be added for additional flavor. Boiling the dumplings in thickened milk is the standard method of serving “Dudh Puli.” Be it any auspicious occasion; the celebration is incomplete without the preparation of nolen gurer payesh. Therefore, on this auspicious occasion of Poush Sankranti, they can’t refrain themselves from preparing this authentic dessert. The profound taste of rice cooked in nolen gur (date palm jaggery) and milk is heavenly. This date palm jaggery tastes a bit molasse-y, thick in texture, and caramel-y. The soothing aroma of jaggery, ghee, and cardamom entices everyone, from preparing payesh to devouring it.  One of the most delectable pithas that Bengalis make every year during Poush Parbon is Patishapta. The authentic taste comes from a blend of different flavors and textures that result in charmingly sweet and aromatic delicacy.  The outer layer of Patishaptas is tremendously soft and thin and has a bit of chewy crepes. You may use all-purpose flour or rice flour to make the outer layer, which greatly affects the texture of Patishaptas. There are plenty of options for the filling, including coconut & kheer, and a blend of jaggery & coconut.  Are you commemorating Poush Sankranti and indulging in all these delectable treats this year? Let us know in the comment section below!  

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Finance
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Economic Growth – 4 Ways Banking Helps Achieve This!

0 Private corporations are joining the game at a time when public-sector financial institutions represent the foundation of the Indian economy. This is wonderful news for clients since they will have access to a greater variety of credit and savings alternatives as well as cutting-edge services like internet banking, which introduces simple transaction ways.  Banks will be compelled to enhance their offerings and step up their competition in order to keep clients, which is positive news for them as well. Public sector banks have been driving the change in the Indian banking industry. If you’re wondering how banking helps maximize economic growth, these are the 4 ways. There are several reasons why individuals put money aside. People save, therefore, in order to cover future expenses for things like joblessness, retirement, and illness, to finance the schooling of their kids and marriage, and to acquire assets in the future.  In order to meet the requirements and tastes of various depositors, financial institutions offer a broad variety of deposits with variable mixes of liquidity as well as interest rates. Research indicates that when commercial banking expands in underprivileged and unbanked areas, household savings increase. By having branches abroad, the Indian banking industry fosters solid international links that greatly aid in the growth of businesses. Indian banks moreover promote commercial activity by offering different local and foreign business houses payment options. Another crucial task carried out by banks is ensuring the equitable distribution of money or economic surpluses among various industries, consumers, and manufacturers in order to maximize societal return and, therefore, guarantee optimal use of resources.  Corporate businesses can obtain money by selling stock shares and debentures, but non-corporate businesses and lenders mostly rely on banks to meet their working and fixed capital demands. Banks contribute to a spike in the total amount of investment in the marketplace by promoting asset incentives and mobilizing savings from the general population. It should be mentioned that banks not only mobilize public savings accounts but also provide credit or deposits that can be exchanged for actual cash. In summary, banking plays a complex and vital part in the growth of the economy. The potential of banks to finance construction projects, assist startups, encourage financial integration, promote trade across borders, encourage savings and investment, and assist in generating jobs are just a few of the ways they can contribute to economic expansion and growth.

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