Chandni Chowk, Delhi India

Introduction

A fine example of India’s unity in diversity, Chandni Chowk located in Netaji Subhash Marg , Old Delhi, opposite to Lahore gate of Red Fort, is another landmark of Delhi.

It is the largest trading centre in North India. Many lanes and by lanes make this busy tourist spot attractive with its sparkling jewellery and tasty food stuffs.

 Also beautifully called as Moonlite square it houses many famous religious places like

(i) Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir,

(ii) Jama Masjid

(iii) Gurudwara Shish Ganj

(iv) Gauri Shankar Temple

(v) Sunheri Masjid

History

This vibrant landmark represents the medieval world. A beautiful blend of tradition and modernity is seen here today.

Its history rolls back to the time when Shah Jahan built the Red Fort or the Lal Qila on the banks of River Yamuna.

This moon-lit square was designed and established by Shahjahan’s darling daughter  princess Jahanara in 1650 A.D.

Architecture

This bazaar has the shape of a square. Structural elegance was further added by the pool which is found in the centre whose shimmering glitter in the night adds more charm to the place.

Originally the shops had a moon snap which unfortunately is lost today.

The name

 Silver is referred to as Chandni in Hindi. During the royal days of Shah Jahan  this bazaar was famous for its silver merchants. This would surely have been the reason for these market lanes to be named like this.

Annual attractions

 Other than marketing  marvels this place reflects many historical events of importance.

We can imagine the glorious royal processions, celebrating the crowning of Mughal Emperors and the royal weddings with its glory and  splendour, that marked those days of kingship and plenitude.

If we become a part of this annual event of Chandni Chowk, we can have a clear-cut idea as to how the daily lives of Indians were in those days.

Religious and Patriotic Celebrations

January 26^th is celebrated in all its glamour and glory by people of all caste and creed, age and affluence, on this busy  market place.

 The main religious festivals like Diwali, dussehra , Id-ul-fitr, Sikh, Jain and Christian festivals also have its share to make this marketing spot one of the loveliest cultural and historical hotspot of the modern India.

How to Reach and Exact Location

One can reach Delhi by air from anywhere of the country.

Delhi also can be reached by rail and road from anywhere of the country. After reaching the city every one can reach here by catching local buses and also can hire taxis or auto- rickshaws from anywhere throughout the city.