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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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#6 The Palace Architecture of Old Delhi (Old Delhi Series)

0 Old Delhi is a city of majestic ruins. Though it crumbled and faded with time, the domes, arches, and walls of its old palaces still stand tall. As you walk through the narrow lanes, the dusty structures blend into the chaos of the modern city. But these are not just any buildings, they were once the grand forts and royal residences of powerful sultans and emperors.  Tracing the stories hidden in their elaborate carvings, frescoes, and sprawling courtyards provides a magical glimpse into Delhi’s regal past. Old Delhi is dotted with imposing ruins of regal residences and palace complexes from the Lodhi and Mughal eras. Exploring these provides glimpses into the majestic lifestyles of its rulers. Let’s unravel the mysteries and legends that haunt these fallen palace fortresses in Old Delhi. Vestiges of a Grand Past Do you know Old Delhi was called Jahanpanah or ‘world refuge’ by Muhammad Bin Tughlaq? He built the Jahanpanah Fort city with massive walls and 13 entrance gates in the 14th century.  Though now mostly in ruins, you will be amazed to see remnants like the Begampuri Mosque with its stunning domed gateway still standing tall.  Not only that, but the Bijay Mandal palace’s arched pavilions, Jahaz Mahal palace, and Lal Mahal tomb are fine examples of Indo-Islamic architecture amidst the rubble. The Emperor’s Palace Citadel Kotla Feroz Shah was a 14th century palace-citadel built by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq with splendid gardens, palaces, mosques, and a massive angular fortress. You will be impressed by the 100-feet high sandstone pyramidal structure of Feroz Shah Kotla still intact along with Ashokan pillars, Jamaali Kamali tombs and more.  Do you know its highlights are the Hawa Mahal, a summer palace with lattice windows, and the 1342 AD Khooni Darwaza. Experience the grandeur of Emperor Feroz Shah through this well-preserved palace complex. Residence of the Royal Poet   In a quiet corner near the Dargah of Nizamuddin Auliya lies Haveli Nizamuddin, the house where the revered Sufi poet lived in the 14th century.  You will admire its traditional Indian architecture – arched gateways, marble jharokhas, and ornate interiors. Don’t miss seeing the special swing (jadau) on which Nizamuddin Auliya sat. Though not palatial, Haveli Nizamuddin transports you to the era of the iconic royal poet and philosopher.  Discover Delhi’s regal past through these vestiges of imposing palace complexes and residences lost among its streets.

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#5 Old Delhi Through the Ages (Old Delhi Series)

0 Old Delhi or Shahjahanabad has evolved dramatically from its inception in the 17th century. Tracing its journey using archival imagery and paintings provides a unique glimpse into the area’s urban evolution. In this blog, let’s dive deep into it’s exquisite and fascinating evolution.  The Magnificent New Capital In 1638, the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan established Shahjahanabad as his imperial capital with the Red Fort and Jama Masjid as its grand centrepieces.  Do you know European travellers in the 1600s called it “Delhi’s newest marble wonder”? Early paintings depict spacious streets, lively bazaars, and imposing architecture. You will be amazed to know Shahjahanabad was planned to be a replica of paradise on Earth based on Islamic geometry and patterns! The Yamuna river flowed along its eastern edge. By the mid-1700s, Shahjahanabad was a thriving metropolis attracting merchants, soldiers and labourers. The imperial vision had flourished into reality. Western Influences Emerge Post the 1857 Revolt, the British relocated the capital to Calcutta. Delhi became a regional centre in the British Raj.  You will be surprised to know Old Delhi railway station was built in 1864 combining Mughal, Gothic and Victorian styles, reflecting changing architectural tastes. Not only that, the early 1900s saw Western style bungalows, stables, and barracks built around Kashmiri Gate. Paintings show imposing colonial buildings dwarfing Old Delhi’s crumbling walls. The 1911 Delhi Durbar saw grand construction like Coronation Park. This period saw Shahjahanabad lose its stature to imperial New Delhi. Remnant of the Past Today Old Delhi stands somewhat frozen in time, still clinging to its past identity. Though now congested with traffic and commerce, certain pockets like Chandni Chowk retain their heritage character. Do you know the government prohibited large demolitions here after outrage over the destruction of old structures in the 1970s-80s? Efforts to pedestrianise streets are reviving its past ambiance. While overpopulated and fraying at the edges, contemporary Old Delhi continues to fascinate as a site of enduring history. Visiting Old Delhi today, one sees a patterned amalgam of old and new – ruins and messy streets interspersed with splendid monuments and colourful bazaars. Its eclectic urban landscape bears witness to its multi-layered past. Old Delhi today is a delightful mess of contradictions. Packed streets buzzing with chaos surround ancient monuments frozen in time. The city carries the remnants of its past within its folds, like a grandmother’s treasure box.  As modernization threatens Old Delhi, we must not forget its history and heritage. Its havelis, palaces and gullies tell a story spanning centuries that must be preserved. The archival paintings and images of the past serve to remind us how this storied city has evolved over the ages, from imperial capital to modern urban jungle. Old Delhi’s fabric encapsulates the many lives of Delhi – if you look closely, you can trace its varied threads interwoven through time.

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#3 Old Delhi’s Glorious Food Heritage (Old Delhi Series)

0 Old Delhi, the walled city of Delhi, is a treasure trove of enduring food traditions and iconic eateries in the 21st century that have been serving legacy Mughlai cuisine and street food recipes for generations. Cultural tourists exploring Old Delhi can discover the area’s rich history and culture through its glorious food heritage. Iconic Eateries of Old Delhi Kareem’s is one of the most iconic eateries located near the Jama Masjid, founded in 1913. It serves royal Mughlai dishes like nihari gosht, kebabs, and biryani. Karim’s has retained its recipe and flavors over the years to offer an authentic Mughlai experience.  Another legendary eatery is the Old Famous Jalebi Wala, which started in 1884 inside Dariba Kalan Market. It serves the softest and juiciest jalebis in Old Delhi, perfect with rabdi.  Ghantewala Halwai in Chandni Chowk market has been selling traditional Indian mithai since 1790. Their specialties include sohan halwa, gulab jamun, and ghevar. Street Food of Old Delhi Do you know Old Delhi is famous for its flavorful and aromatic street food? Chandni Chowk is dotted with iconic street food vendors and stalls. Parathawali Gali is famous for layered flatbreads like aloo paratha and stuffed kulcha. Ashok Chaat Bhandar, near Chandni Chowk, is renowned for chaats like dahi bhalle papdi chaat and aloo tikki. Jalebi Wala Corner sells crispy hot jalebis dunked in sugar syrup. You’ll find vendors selling kebabs, haleem, biryani, and nihari near the Jama Masjid on carts. Be sure to try the unique, paper-thin roomali roti. It is a must-try. From Jama Masjid Gate No. 3, try Shahi-Tukde, a sweet dessert made out of pure ghee and bread. Buy delicacies like sheermal and baked papay.  Food Tours of Old Delhi The best way to explore Old Delhi’s food heritage is by joining a food tour. Many operators, like Delhi Food Walks, Delicious Delhi Food Tours, and Old Delhi Food Tour, offer guided walking tours. The famous tour guides are Abbu Sufiyan (known as Purani Delhi wala) and Iqbal Ali (known as House of Dehalvi).  An experienced guide takes you to hidden gems, explains the history and culinary secrets of dishes, and lets you taste a variety of iconic Old Delhi cuisine. You get insights into culture and food traditions. Food tours are ideal for families, solo travelers, and anyone new to Old Delhi. Old Delhi’s glorious food heritage offers a delicious entry point to experience the area’s enduring culture and history. It’s iconic eateries and flavorful street food provide a window into tradition. So set out on a food tour or just follow your nose to discover Old Delhi’s rich culinary legacy. 

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#2 Tracing the History of Delhi’s Iconic Monuments (Old Delhi Series)

0 Delhi has been the capital of several empires throughout history. As a result, the city is dotted with majestic monuments that reflect its rich cultural past. Exploring the tales behind Delhi’s historical monuments provides an insight into the city’s architectural evolution.  Delhi has been a tourist space for more than 30 years and it’s still developing. The thing that makes it unique is that in the ever-crowded and bustling markets, there is a unique sense of satisfaction and peace hidden within. Here are some of the key monuments that reveal the untold stories of Delhi’s history. The Red Fort: The Ultimate Symbol of the Mughals Built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, the grand Red Fort is made of red sandstone. It got its name from its imposing red walls. The Red Fort was the residence of the Mughal dynasty for nearly 200 years.  Beyond its regal appearance, the fort has many hidden features. There is an elaborate network of water channels and fountains inside. Not only that but, the Royal Baths use elaborate hydraulic technology for hot and cold water. The Diwan-i-Khas once housed the legendary Peacock Throne studded with precious stones. The Red Fort is a magnificent symbol of Mughal grandeur. Qutub Minar: Delhi’s Earliest Monument Rising 73 meters, the Qutub Minar is Delhi’s tallest minaret built in the 13th century. It is made of red sandstone and marble with intricate carvings. An ambitious construction project by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, signified the might of the Delhi Sultanate.  An interesting fact about Qutub Minar is that it was struck by lightning twice in its history. The first time, it was repaired by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. The second time, it sustained more damage, giving it the slight tilt it has today. Nonetheless, the Qutub Minar remains an architectural marvel. Humayun’s Tomb: Grandeur of the Mughals Built in the 16th century by Humayun’s widow, Bega Begum, this was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It paved the way for later monuments like the Taj Mahal. The structure combines Persian architecture with Indian traditions. Red sandstone and white marble contrast elegantly against the symmetrical gardens. Intricate lattice work and ceilings adorn the interiors. Humayun’s tomb has an ethereal beauty that reflects the emperor’s heavenly paradise. Exploring the history behind Delhi’s iconic monuments provides insight into the city’s rich cultural past. The tales of architectural ambition, political might, and the rise and fall of dynasties come alive. So head out and unravel the unknown stories behind each monument. 

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#1 Exploring the Seven Cities of Delhi (Delhi Series)

0 As we all know, Delhi has been the capital of several empires throughout its long history. You will be shocked to know that the city was built and rebuilt seven times during the ancient and medieval periods, which shaped the Delhi we know today. Tracing the rise and fall of these seven cities in this blog provides a fascinating glimpse into Delhi’s cultural evolution.  The Tomars’ First Fortress  The oldest reference, according to historical background, we have to Delhi is to the fortified city of Lal Kot, founded in 1060 by the Tomar ruler Anangpal. The first of the seven cities, it was located in the south of current Delhi. Today, the ruins of Lal Kot can also be seen near the Qutub Minar complex. The Chauhans’ Expansion In the 12th century, according to historians, Chauhan king Prithviraj Chauhan expanded Lal Kot into a bigger fort called Qila Rai Pithora, known as present day Mehrauli. This second city is also very famous for its massive stone fortifications and gates. Gradually, the kingdom shifted from Lal Kot to Rai Pithora. Alauddin Khilji’s Luxurious Addon Do you know that when the Khiljis captured Delhi in 1303, Alauddin Khilji founded the third city of Siri, adjacent to Qila Rai Pithora? With lavish palaces and architecture, Siri was an opulent addition, showing Khilji’s power. The defining monument was the extravagant mosque, commonly referred to as the Alai Minar. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq’s Mighty Stronghold  The founder of the mighty Tughlaq dynasty, Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, built the fourth city of Tughlaqabad in the 14th century. The imposing stone fortress, with its vivid details and architecture, shows his vision’s ambition. Even in ruins, Tughlaqabad represents the might of his reign.   Muhammad Bin Tughlaq’s Double-walled City Within a few decades, Muhammad Bin Tughlaq built another new capital called Jahanpanah in the 14th century. The fifth city had outer and inner walls, with 13 gates for double protection. The Jahaz Mahal and the Begumpuri Masjid inside stand testament to its grand empire. Capital planned by Firoz Shah According to historical records, the sixth city of Firozabad was built by Sultan Firoz Shah between 1354-88 with imperial buildings and public works. The circular city had a geometric street grid and facilities like baths, mosques, tanks, and palaces. Firoz Shah’s reforms and constructions shaped Firozabad into a planned, well-run capital. The Magnificent Mughal Capital  The seventh city of Shahjahanabad, constructed in the mid 17th-century, is the old Delhi we know today. Shah Jahan shifted his capital from Agra to build this new magnificent capital with the Red Fort and Jama Masjid as focal points.  Chandni Chowk market and elegant havelis were added by nobles. Sections of Shahjahanabad’s walls, gates, and streets remain, changed yet recognizable. Exploring the various ancient cities that rose and fell on Delhi’s landscape gives us a glimpse into its storied past and the kings who shaped each capital for their needs and eventually transformed it into the historical metropolis of today.

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#4 The Colorful Markets of Old Delhi (Old Delhi Series)

0 Delhi is incomplete without the mention of Old Delhi. Old Delhi’s narrow lanes are dotted with bustling bazaars brimming with culture and history. Each bazaar or market illustrates its amazing and unique factors. Not only are monuments the space to fully discover the essence of Delhi but the local markets and bazaars will lead you to thrills and shopping adventures. Take a stroll through these pulsating markets in this blog to experience the real flavor of the city.  Delhi’s Beating Heart  Do you know Chandni Chowk is over 300 years old? Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, this ‘moonlit square’ was once the imperial avenue to the Red Fort. Over the centuries, it evolved into Delhi’s oldest and busiest bazaar. You will be shocked to know that the chaos of cars, cycle rickshaws, handcarts, and pedestrians has not changed since the Mughal era! Meandering through the cacophony transports you back in time.  Not only that, Chandni Chowk is a food lover’s paradise. Stop at century-old eateries like Paranthe Wali Gali for stuffed flatbreads and Ghantewala for sweets. And you cannot miss Old Famous Jalebi Wala, which has been selling the softest jalebis since 1884. Delhi’s Paper Hub Heading north takes you to Chawri Bazar, Delhi’s wedding card and paper products market. You will be amazed by the endless shops selling handmade paper products, wedding accessories, and more. Do you know how Chawri Bazar got its unique name? Legend says it came from ‘chawri’ or lamps that a courtesan lit to welcome Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II.  Not only that, Chawri Bazar has a 350-year-old temple, an ornate mosque, and a charming Jain temple. And don’t miss indulging in vegetarian treats at Hare Ram Hare Krishna in Daryaganj.   Asia’s Largest Spice Market No trip to Old Delhi is complete without visiting the aromatic Khari Baoli. Do you know it is Asia’s largest wholesale spice market?  You will be awed to see mountains of colorful spices, herbs, and food products. The market’s name means ‘salty stepwell’, referring to the water body once located here.  Not only that, a walk through Khari Baoli provides a glimpse into Old Delhi’s rich spice trade history. Marvel at sacks of vivid spices, pick some to take home and sample tasty snacks at Old Famous Jalebi Wala. The Street of the Tailor’s Needle In the middle of Old Delhi lies Sui Walan, a place filled with shops selling clothes, eateries, and whatnot. The mentioned place is a main local market. Famous eating points are Durga Halwai, which is not only famous for its wok Chowmin and Chole Bhature but also for its franchise shop of utensils.  While exploring Sui Walan, you will be welcomed by the fragrance of fresh gajra, mehendi, and pickles.  Old Delhi’s bazaars give you a sensory experience through their chaos, flavors, aromas, and colors. Lose yourself in these markets to soak up the old-world charm.

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