Chandni Chowk : The Moonlight Square Of Delhi

Nestled in the middle of the walled city of Old Delhi, located opposite the Red Fort, with Jama Masjid in the vicinity, one of Delhi’s busiest, grandest and oldest shopping markets, “Chandni Chowk” was built in the 17th century, when Emperor Shahjahan shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi. It became the heart and soul of the commercial activities of the Mughal Empire and the legend continues till today. The market was once divided by canals to reflect moonlight and that’s how it earned its name, ‘Chandni’ (Moonlit). Once famous for its fountains and shops, gradually the fountains of the chowk disappeared but the shops remained and continued to grow. The crowded by-lanes reek of history, which is what the charm of the Chandni Chowk is all about. Having read so much about this place and wanting to experience the charming place myself, I decided to spend a day in Chandni Chowk. 
The metro connectivity has made the old city easily accessible. I boarded the Delhi Metro and as I alighted from the station right into Chandni Chowk, the buzz and liveliness of the place both shocked and enchanted me at the same time. From here on, I began to explore everything I had mentally noted down in a quick checklist in preparations for today. I was capable of walking throughout the market, but could not resist the thrills of a rickshaw ride, amidst close and tight jammed up vehicles on the road.
What I found remarkable is that the marketplace has been here for three centuries and all possible faiths co-exist in this small area in total harmony. This is clear with the presence of the 16^th century Digambara Jain Temple, next to the Hindu Gauri Shankar Temple. Up ahead there is the Svetambra Jain Temple, also the famed Sunheri Masjid, a mosque. The other end of the street is flanked by the holy Sikh Sisganj Gurudwara. Mini secular India, exemplary for the entire nation, don’t you agree? And one can walk into any of these religious and revered premises without inhibition, regardless of one’s faith.

The best part that I liked was that the streets were full of tourists jostling for space with shoppers. Chandni Chowk is a gastronomical delight, with enticing smells of delicious foods tempting you from every nook and corner. I had gone empty stomach to be able to relish as many as possible of these culinary treats. I started out with the famous Paranthe Wali Gali, where desi-ghee parathas of every imaginable stuffing are served with delicious accompaniments. Too heavy, but oh so tantalizing! And the malai lassi was simply irresistible.
Having travelled from the rich, luxurious history till today’s practical, commercial era, Chandni Chowk has covered a long tireless journey… countless hidden stories, captivating experiences, everlasting hopes all silently placed in this enchanting and charming habitat. Lots has been said and shared about Chandni Chowk, yet it will always have a subtle mysterious aura around it, for every thirsty traveler to unravel.
One day is surely not enough to enjoy the wonderful and enchanting Chandni Chowk. I did manage to get a small glimpse of it in one day. As I walked in the narrow alleys, I felt myself deported back in time and I could imagine the people living there decades and perhaps centuries ago. The perfect way to enjoy heritage at its best!