We’ve all often heard stories from our grandparents about India’s independence and how they lived back then. I think these are our grandparent’s favorite stories of all times. When I hear their stories, I’m filled with an unparalleled sense of pride. These stories have always made me wonder if today’s generation could survive in similar conditions. Delhi has been the the epicenter of the nation's politics, economy and culture. It is one of the longest serving capitals and one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. It all started in the Mughal era and went on till India became an independent Nation in 1947 after a long freedom struggle led largely by The Indian National Congress and its visionary leaders.
History is alive and throbbing in Delhi!
Delhi Then and Now
Delhi is a land of mixed cultures and has a strong historical background. Before independence, there was political turmoil in Delhi for over five centuries. It was ruled by some of the most powerful rulers in the country who’ve left their imprint in the form of relics and monuments. In 1911, the capital of India was shifted from Calcutta to Delhi. During the partition, a lot of refugees migrated to Delhi and subsequently settled in North and West Delhi areas, while Hindus from East Pakistan, settled in the late 1960s in South Delhi, particularly in the Chittaranjan Park. Shops and stalls were set up to cater to demands of the migrants and schools and colleges were also set up.
Today Delhi, with a population of over 9 million and growing, is the bustling heart of India. From the packed lanes of Old Delhi to the metropolitan malls of New Delhi, the city is rich in diversity. This is evident in the city’s architecture too—historic monuments and age-old gardens coexist with skyscrapers and shiny new malls.
There’s a lot to explore in Delhi—after all, the city has hundreds of years of history behind it.
Don’t Leave Delhi Before You:
EAT: The Delhi-cious streetfood. For lip-smacking kebabs, biryani and rolls, head to Karim’s near Jama Masjid. If you’re a fan of momos, try “QD’s” in Satya Niketan and for amazing waffles, go to “Oh La La!” in DLF, Vasant Kunj. You should try “aloo tikki chaat” at BTW which has a number of outlets in Delhi and NCR. For delicious Butter Chicken and mouth watering Chole Bhature head out to “Punjabi By Nature”.
BUY: Delhi is a street-shopper’s paradise. To buy funky jewellery and clothes at ridiculously low prices, go to Sarojini Nagar or Lajpat Nagar. For boutique and designer wear, visit Shahpur Jat, Hauz Khas or Select Citywalk, Saket, for luxury brands. If you want something local, you can buy exquisite handicrafts from Dilli Haat.
DO: Visit Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk to get a feel of the old city. For some peace and quiet, visit The Lotus Temple. If you’re a foodie at heart, you should definitely go to Dilli Haat which offers a variety of cuisines. You should also visit Qutub Minar and Red Fort which are a delight to one’s imagination and hold great historic importance at the same time. You could also head out for a jog to the Lodhi Gardens which houses the tombs of Sayyid and Lodhi rulers
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