Old Delhi- The Chaotic Streets And The Amazing Food

While many of us are still figuring out a way to manage our post-pandemic lifestyle, the hustling part of the capital region has already started with a boom. Old Delhi has a history of its own. From being a strategic location of the Mughals to becoming a market area now, Old Delhi has conquered all the stages. The chaotic streets of Old Delhi are a perfect place to visit when you feel low. These streets never sleep. 

History of Old Delhi

Old Delhi was established by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as Shahjahanabad in 1639, and the capital city of India was the capital city of Mughals last emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, was deposed and exiled by the British in 1858. Old Delhi remains because of its vibrant economy and historical significance.

So far, at least, the Government of India and the Delhi City Authorities have permitted it as a historic area, far too complex to formally reorder according to modern norms that give priority to motor vehicles and focus on simplification, specialization, creating space, and reducing density. 

The old city is known for the forts and architecture built back in the Mughal period. To be very particular about the development of Delhi, it started with the rule of Shahjahan. According to the stories we all have heard, it says that he shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi. This is the reason that we get to see many kinds of architecture. Shajahan was a big-time fan of architecture. Some of the best examples of incredible architecture are the Taj Mahal in Agra and Red Fort in Delhi.  

Architecture Of The Chaotic City

If you know even a bit of the Mughal Dynasty, you would know that this is famous for different kinds of architecture. While walking down the streets of Old Delhi, you will understand every wall has a past bombarded with stories. The COVID19 situation in Delhi is worsening so it is easy for you to visit and look at these walls but only at the cost of staying safe. Old Delhi is designed in such a way that it is surrounded by 14 gates in an area of 1500 acres. You can still find gates there whereas the walls have vanished. 

The political center of the Mughals- Red Fort is famous because of the red stoned walls.  It was made in 1648 by Shahjahan in an area of 254.67 acres. The fort is in octagon shape where the north-south axis is longer than the east-west axis. It is made in the most strategic way possible.

Another major monument in this city is Jama Masjid. Situated in Chandni Chowk, it is one of the largest mosques in India.  This incredible monument has three gates, four monuments, and two 40m high minarets. The Red Fort is just opposite this beautiful mosque. Visit this place at the sunset and get two things at once. The sunset and the peace. The floor of this mosque is designed in such a way to make it look like a praying mat. It is covered in white and black ornamented marble. 

Old Delhi Food

There is no shortage of street foods in this chaotic city. From street food to luxurious hyper-expensive hotel food, you will find everything here. Food seems to be the religion of this city. Since India is a secular nation, the best example of secularity could be seen in the capital city itself. There is no Hindu or Muslim distribution, the food remains the same for everyone. The moment you step into this city, the aroma of the food will water your mouth. This is the beauty of this city. 

The streets are dominated by meat and can be heaven for the non-vegetarian population. Vegetarians can jump onto the delicious options of parathas, chats, and sweets. You name it. It is no secret that Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi is famous for ‘Paratha Vali Gali’. There is not just one shop offering you parathas but a line of different shops. You will never find these galis empty. They are pounded with people and tourists. With over 30 varieties of parathas, they offer you different types of chutneys that go well with them. 

The biggest flex is when you see shopkeepers who have seen Old Delhi grow from British Raj till the 21st century. They are a bunch of old aged people who will enlighten you with the history of this city. This is not it for Old Delhi. Chawri Bazaar and Chandni Chowk offer the best spices in the world. They are from the few places of the world that offers them. Still, we would recommend all the meat lovers should visit this busy city once in a while.