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Chandni Chowk

Shopping in Chandi Chowk offers a staggering range of goodies ranging from books, clothes, electronics, shoes, leather and consumer goods. Walking along this jostling street can get quite intimidating, so be prepared to get stunned. Each area of Chandni Chowk has different markets, which are known for various things.

Nai Sadak

Nai Sadak is mainly known for books and stationery items. It is perfect for the students and bibliomaniacs who will find everything they need here, ranging from books for competitive exams to second-hand college textbooks, fiction novels and even Hindi fiction and non-fiction. 

Dariba Kalan

Dariba Kalan is known for jewellery, especially silver and gold items. The highlight here is the availability of hand-crafted jewellery. The best part about shopping at this market is the cost of the items is usually around 25% less than the other markets. You will also find kundan and meenakari jewellery here, along with shops selling perfumes and oils.

Chawri Bazar

Chawri Bazar is your go-to place if you are looking to get wedding cards printed in bulk. It specialises in the sale of paper products. You will find all kinds of wedding cards here - simple and subtle to fancy and extravagant. 

Kinari Bazar

Kinari Bazar is a haven for your wedding shopping. It is a narrow lane known for selling the best zardozi items such as laces and frills. Apart from this, you will also find Parsi borders, motifs, ribbon laces and all the embellishments for your wedding lehenga. 

Bhagirath Palace

This is Asia's largest wholesale market for electrical and electronic items. Right from simple light fixtures to fancy decorative lamps, you will find everything you need to decorate your home. That too at dirt cheap prices!

Ballimaran Market

This market is known for selling shoes at affordable prices. There are all kinds of shoes available here, ranging from formal shoes to dress shoes. You will also find a lot of opticians here, though don't depend on their eye testing skills. You can find a huge variety of frames and sunglasses at a throwaway price.

Chor Bazaar

Chor Bazaar is one of the biggest thrift markets in the city and offers things like Books, clothes, shoes, gym equipment, camera, stationery and antiques, you name it, and they have it. 

There are plenty of other markets in Chandi Chowk selling various knick-knacks:

Khari Baoli is a street dedicated to spices, nuts, herbs and dried fruits. Located at the western end of Chandni Chowk, there is no spice that you won't find here. 

Fatehpuri Market is a wholesale trade market for khoya and paneer. You will also find plenty of eateries here. 

Kucha Choudhary Market is also known as the photo market. You can get all types of cameras and its accessory at every corner of this market.

Katra Neel is the wholesale market for all kinds of clothes. The first franchise of Raymond from Old Delhi is also located here. There are plenty of shops selling sarees, lehenga, salwar suits and men's wear.

Moti Bazar is known for shawls in a myriad of design, colour, style and type of wool. It is called as the Moti Bazar as it specialises in the sale and purchase of pearls.

Nearest metro station - Chandni chowk

(P.C- INSHA RANA)

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Bharat Parv 2024

Bharat Parv is an annual event organized by the Government of India to celebrate the country's rich cultural heritage, diversity, and history. The event typically takes place in New Delhi around Republic Day, which falls on January 26th. It aims to showcase various aspects of India's culture, including its cuisine, handicrafts, music, dance, and traditions.

During Bharat Parv, visitors can explore different pavilions representing various states and union territories of India. These pavilions usually feature exhibitions highlighting the unique cultural, historical, and artistic aspects of each region. Visitors can enjoy traditional performances, sample regional cuisines, and purchase handicrafts and souvenirs representing different parts of the country.

The event also includes cultural performances, folk dances, music concerts, and exhibitions showcasing India's achievements in various fields such as science, technology, and sports. Additionally, there are often competitions, workshops, and interactive sessions aimed at promoting awareness and appreciation of India's diverse heritage among visitors, especially the younger generation.

Overall, Bharat Parv serves as a platform for fostering national unity, promoting tourism, and celebrating the rich tapestry of India's culture and heritage. It attracts both domestic and international visitors and provides an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to come together and experience the vibrancy and diversity of India.

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Festival of colours

Date and Duration: The Festival of Colors usually takes place on the last full moon day of the lunar month of Phalguna, which typically falls in February or March. The festival lasts for two days, although celebrations may vary in different regions of India.

Rituals and Traditions: Holi is characterized by exuberant and colorful celebrations. People gather in open spaces, streets, and public squares, armed with dry powdered colors and water-filled balloons or water guns. The atmosphere is filled with laughter, music, and dance. People apply vibrant colors on each other's faces, playfully drench each other with colored water, and exchange greetings and sweets.

Bonfire Night: The festival begins with a bonfire known as Holika Dahan on the evening before Holi. This ritual involves the burning of a symbolic bonfire to commemorate the triumph of good over evil. People gather around the bonfire, sing religious songs, perform prayers, and offer prayers to the deities.

Cultural Significance: Holi holds great cultural significance in India. It is associated with various mythological legends, the most popular being the story of Prahlada and the demoness Holika. It is believed that Prahlada's devotion to Lord Vishnu protected him from the destructive powers of Holika, and thus Holi celebrates the victory of good over evil.

Social Unity and Forgiveness: Holi is a time when social barriers are temporarily set aside. People from all walks of life, regardless of caste, creed, or social status, come together to celebrate and enjoy the festival. It promotes a sense of unity, harmony, and brotherhood among communities. Holi is also a time for forgiveness and letting go of past grievances, as people embrace each other with colors and exchange warm wishes.

Culinary Delights: Holi is also a time for indulging in delicious traditional sweets and snacks. Special Holi delicacies like gujiya (sweet dumplings), malpua (pancakes), and thandai (a flavored milk drink) are prepared and shared among friends and family.

Regional Variations: While the essence of Holi remains the same throughout India, there are regional variations in the way it is celebrated. For example, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the birthplace of Holi, the festivities are particularly exuberant, with cities like Mathura and Vrindavan hosting grand celebrations. In the state of Punjab, Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm as the festival coincides with the Sikh festival of Hola Mohalla.

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Jama Masjid

A beautiful pocket of calm at the heart of Old Delhi's mayhem, the capital's largest mosque is built on a 10m elevation. It can hold a mind-blowing 25,000 people. The marble and red-sandstone structure, known also as the ‘Friday Mosque’, was Shah Jahan’s final architectural triumph, built between 1644 and 1658. The four watchtowers were used for security. There are two minarets standing 40m high, one of which can be climbed for amazing views.

There are numerous entrance gates, but only Gate 1 (south side), Gate 2 (east), and Gate 3 (north) allow access to the mosque for visitors. The eastern gate was originally for imperial use only. Entrance is free, but you have to buy a ₹300 ticket if you are carrying a camera of any sort (including a camera phone), even if you don't intend to take photos. Once inside, you can buy a separate ₹100 ticket to climb the 121 steps up the narrow southern minaret (notices say that unaccompanied women are not permitted). From the top of the minaret, you can see how architect Edwin Lutyens incorporated the mosque into his design of New Delhi – the Jama Masjid, Connaught Place and Sansad Bhavan (Parliament House) are in a direct line.

Visitors should dress conservatively and remove their shoes before entering the mosque, though you can carry your shoes with you inside if you wish to leave from a different gate, or are worried about losing them (many locals do this)

(P.C -INSHA RANA)

Nearest metro station -Jama Masjid

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Jama Masjid

A beautiful pocket of calm at the heart of Old Delhi's mayhem, the capital's largest mosque is built on a 10m elevation. It can hold a mind-blowing 25,000 people. The marble and red-sandstone structure, known also as the ‘Friday Mosque’, was Shah Jahan’s final architectural triumph, built between 1644 and 1658. The four watchtowers were used for security. There are two minarets standing 40m high, one of which can be climbed for amazing views.

There are numerous entrance gates, but only Gate 1 (south side), Gate 2 (east), and Gate 3 (north) allow access to the mosque for visitors. The eastern gate was originally for imperial use only. Entrance is free, but you have to buy a ₹300 ticket if you are carrying a camera of any sort (including a camera phone), even if you don't intend to take photos. Once inside, you can buy a separate ₹100 ticket to climb the 121 steps up the narrow southern minaret (notices say that unaccompanied women are not permitted). From the top of the minaret, you can see how architect Edwin Lutyens incorporated the mosque into his design of New Delhi – the Jama Masjid, Connaught Place and Sansad Bhavan (Parliament House) are in a direct line.

Visitors should dress conservatively and remove their shoes before entering the mosque, though you can carry your shoes with you inside if you wish to leave from a different gate, or are worried about losing them (many locals do this)

Nearest metro station - Jama Masjid.

(P.C - INSHA RANA)

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(P.C- INSHA RANA)

Safdarjung tomb

The Safdarjung Tomb is a magnificent mausoleum located in New Delhi, India. It was built in 1754 as a tribute to Safdarjung, the Prime Minister of the Mughal Empire. The tomb's architecture is a stunning example of Mughal-era design, featuring intricate carvings, domes, and lush gardens, making it a popular historical site and tourist destination.

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Sunder nursery

Sunder Nursery is a historic park in New Delhi, India, known for its beautiful gardens, Mughal-era monuments, and diverse plant life. It's a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy nature, heritage walks, and cultural events.

(P.C- INSHA RANA)

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National gallery of modern art

The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) is a renowned institution that showcases modern and contemporary art in various forms, from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations. It's a great place to explore and appreciate the evolution of art over time.

(P.C- Insha Rana)

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(P.C- INSHA RANA )

SHRI UTTARA SWAMI MALAI TEMPLE

The Uttara Swami Malai Temple, also known as the Murugan Temple, is located in R.K. Puram, Delhi, and is dedicated to Lord Murugan, a popular deity in South India. The temple was established to provide a place of worship for the Tamil community residing in Delhi. It's a serene oasis in the bustling city, offering devotees a peaceful space for prayer and reflection.

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Book review

Kindred by -

Judith Butler

Octavia E. Butler's "Kindred" is a haunting and powerful exploration of the complexities of race, history, and identity. Set in both the antebellum South and 1970s California, the novel follows Dana, a young African American woman who finds herself mysteriously transported back in time to a plantation in Maryland. There, she encounters her ancestors and is forced to confront the brutal realities of slavery firsthand.

One of the most striking aspects of "Kindred" is Butler's masterful portrayal of the psychological and emotional toll of slavery on both the enslaved and the enslavers. Through Dana's eyes, we witness the dehumanizing effects of slavery on individuals, as well as the ways in which power dynamics shape relationships and behaviors. Butler refuses to romanticize or sugarcoat the horrors of slavery, instead presenting them in all their stark brutality.

Central to the novel is the relationship between Dana and Rufus, the white plantation owner's son who is also Dana's ancestor. Their relationship is complex and fraught with tension, as Dana is forced to navigate the conflicting loyalties of family ties and moral principles. Through Dana and Rufus's interactions, Butler delves into questions of privilege, complicity, and the legacy of oppression that continues to shape contemporary society.

Butler also skillfully weaves elements of science fiction into the narrative, using Dana's time-traveling abilities as a means of exploring the interconnectedness of past and present. As Dana is repeatedly drawn back to the plantation whenever Rufus's life is in danger, she grapples with questions of fate and free will, ultimately coming to understand the profound impact that history has on the present.

In addition to its thematic depth, "Kindred" is also a gripping and suspenseful read. Butler's prose is spare yet evocative, drawing readers into the story from the very first page and keeping them on the edge of their seats until the final, heart-wrenching conclusion. The novel is filled with moments of tension and terror, as Dana must navigate the dangers of life on the plantation while also struggling to find a way back to her own time.

At its core, "Kindred" is a profound meditation on the nature of humanity and the search for meaning in a world marked by injustice and suffering. Butler forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the past and present, challenging us to reckon with the legacies of slavery and racism that continue to shape our world today.

In conclusion, "Kindred" is a timeless masterpiece that deserves a place on every bookshelf. Through its powerful storytelling and thought-provoking themes, Octavia E. Butler's novel forces readers to confront the darkest chapters of human history while also offering a message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. It is a book that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, inviting reflection and discussion long into the future.

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Confess- by Colleen Hoover book review

Confess" by Colleen Hoover is a compelling tale that intricately weaves together themes of love, loss, forgiveness, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of an art gallery where anonymous confessions are displayed, the story follows the journey of Auburn Reed and Owen Mason Gentry as they navigate the complexities of their pasts and their burgeoning relationship.

The narrative begins with Auburn, a young woman with a troubled past who finds herself in a difficult situation, desperately in need of money to support herself and achieve her dreams. This leads her to take a job at an art studio owned by the mysterious and talented artist, Owen Gentry. From their initial encounter, there is an undeniable chemistry between Auburn and Owen, but both are burdened by secrets that threaten to unravel their connection.

Central to the story is the concept of confession. As part of Owen's art exhibit, people are invited to anonymously confess their deepest secrets, which are then turned into works of art. These confessions serve as a catalyst for the characters' emotional journeys, forcing them to confront their pasts and the choices they've made.

Auburn's backstory is revealed gradually throughout the novel, shedding light on the challenges she has faced and the sacrifices she has made in order to survive. Her strength and resilience in the face of adversity make her a compelling protagonist, and readers will find themselves rooting for her as she navigates the complexities of her relationship with Owen.

Owen, on the other hand, is a complex and enigmatic character with his own demons to contend with. His art serves as a means of catharsis, allowing him to express his innermost thoughts and feelings in a way that words alone cannot convey. As Auburn and Owen grow closer, they must learn to trust each other and confront the secrets that threaten to tear them apart.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of the intricacies of human relationships. Hoover skillfully captures the highs and lows of love, portraying both the joy and the pain that come with opening oneself up to another person. The chemistry between Auburn and Owen is palpable, and their romance is both tender and passionate.

However, "Confess" is more than just a love story. It is also a story about the power of forgiveness and redemption. As the characters grapple with their pasts and the mistakes they've made, they are forced to confront their own vulnerabilities and learn to let go of their pain in order to move forward.

The novel's pacing is brisk, with short chapters that keep the reader engaged and eager to uncover the next twist in the story. Hoover's writing is evocative and emotionally resonant, drawing readers into the world of the characters and making them feel every triumph and heartache along the way.

In conclusion, "Confess" is a captivating and emotionally charged novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and heartfelt storytelling. With its memorable characters, poignant themes, and gripping plot, it is a book that will stay with readers long after they have turned the final page.

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Book Review

IT ENDS WITH US- BY COLLEEN HOOVER

Lily Bloom is a 23 year old, small town girl who has worked hard to escape her past and start her own business in Boston.Growing up in an abusive household has left its scars on Lily but she’s looking forward to a new start in a city she has always wanted to call home.When she meets attractive neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid, Lily finally feels like her life is heading in the right direction. Ryle is sensitive, brilliant, and has a real soft spot for Lily. However, although their relationship starts off as passionate and romantic, it quickly changes, leaving Lily confused and overwhelmed with doubts.As she starts to question her new relationship, Lily also founds herself unable to stop thinking about her first love, Atlas Corrigan. When she discovers that he too is living in Boston, Lily realises she must also confront the past while also moving forward with her life.It was thought provoking and I liked how the author didn’t shy away from diving into difficult topics. I liked Lily as a character and admired how strong and determined she was. I appreciated how Colleen Hoover created characters with nuance. There were no pantomime villains or perfects heroes.

This made the story feel really authentic.I appreciated how the author never victim shames. The blame, quite rightly, always falls on the perpetrator.I particularly enjoyed the ending and the “It ends with us” quote that the book is named after.It’s not a perfect book by any means. I prefer more descriptive prose but the book was fast paced and kept me reading.

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"Draupadi's Bold Stand: Changing the Rules"

In the ancient Mahabharata tale, there's a part where Draupadi, a strong and brave woman, challenges old ideas about women's place. Here's how it goes:

During a big gambling match in a fancy hall, something sneaky happens. Yudhishthira, one of the main guys, bets himself, his brothers, and even their kingdom. Things get messy, and Yudhishthira is declared a slave.

Draupadi knows this isn't right. She steps up, speaking with strong determination. "The rules say we should be honest and fair in this game. So, how can they bet a wife like a thing?"

People are surprised by Draupadi's brave words. They're not used to women speaking up. One guy, Duryodhana, laughs and says women are like things to be given away or kept safe by men.

Draupadi won't back down. She says, "No, it's time to change how we think. Women are not things to be owned. I'm not an object. I have my own thoughts, choices, and respect."

Her words make people think. Yudhishthira agrees with Draupadi. He says that she's right. Women should decide their own worth.

In that moment, Yudhishthira stands with Draupadi, saying that she's not something to bet. This changes the game's direction. The brothers stand together against old ideas that put women down.

This moment makes people talk. It starts conversations about fairness for women and how they can choose their own paths. Draupadi's bravery spreads far, inspiring women and men to challenge old rules.

This version of the story shows how Draupadi's courage brings change. She fights against ideas that hurt women. It's a story that teaches us to question old ways and give women the respect and freedom they deserve.

POV: I would mold the story to show Draupadi's bravery. I believe in standing up for myself, just like she did. Draupadi's courage inspires me. Her story teaches me to be bold and speak up for what I believe is right. I admire her strength and determination. This is the version of the story I want to tell

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BOOK REVIEW - VERITY by COLLEEN HOOVER

WHOSE TRUTH IS THE LIE: VERITY "Verity" is a book that's really exciting and mysterious. It's about people and their minds, making readers wonder who they really are.it is a fictional book. The theme is all about secrets, trust, and how things might not be as they seem to be. It is a Set up against a backdrop of suspense and mystery, this book intricately weaves a tale of unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers thoroughly engaged till the very end. People who love stories that keep them guessing will enjoy this book. It's full of surprises and makes readers think about how past affects choices. Reading Variety will keep one hooked and thinking even after it is finished reading.

Colleen Hoover usually writes love stories or books for younger readers where the characters face tough situations and learn about life and relationships. Verity is different because it's not about romance. It's a suspenseful and scary book, unlike what she normally writes. Instead of focusing on love, it's about secrets and mysteries that keep readers guessing and investing their thoughts. At its core, the theme of Variety revolves around the complexity of human nature. It skilfully explores the real identity, trust, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion. Readers are taken on a journey where perceptions are challenged, and the characters whose personality is hidden which makes them enigmatic. This makes readers hard to differentiate between whose sides they should take. The story is easy to sink into, and difficult to put down. The story revolves around Verity's intense but selfish love for Jeremy her husband, leading to unexpected crimes. Her life with their twin daughters Chastin and harper and a small son Crew is a bit difficult for her to balance which further pushes the darker layers of the story. It touches on the impact of grief and loss, as both Lowen a struggling author and Jeremy grapple with the deaths of loved ones. It contains sudden tragedies whose true reasons could never been defined clearly, it’s all up to the readers, how they want to absorb the story as per there imagination. This departure from her traditional style demonstrates Hoover's versatility and skill in delivering a gripping story across diverse genres.

The book cover of Verity reflects the mysterious and suspenseful nature of the story, which by first sight may appear as something totally weird and meaningless but as I completed, I could connect with the hidden pictures and able to relate it with story. I was amazed how could I not notice the purpose of the cover, thoughtfulness in that could be clearly seen. Also, this book is self-published by author. As for the reading time, completing Verity might take around 10-12 hours, depending on one's reading pace. The mystery in the story stays super strong, and it shows how people have deep feelings, which is pretty cool. It handles difficult parts in a different way and talks about serious stuff in a really interesting way that keeps readers hooked. This book isn't like most others—it's special. It sticks in your mind even after you finish it, making you think about it and feel things for a long time. It's like having a special secret that keeps your thoughts busy and your feelings alive.

“Some families are lucky enough to never experience a single tragedy. But then there are those families that seem to have tragedies waiting on the back burner. What can go wrong, goes wrong. And then gets worse,” The book explores emotions like love, fear, and anger, which are feelings we all experience in our lives. It also delves into the complexities of human relationships, where people can be tricky and manipulate each other. In today's world, we often encounter situations where trust is questioned, and the lines between truth and lies can become blurred. "Verity" encourages us to think about why people behave the way they do and challenges us to question the hidden layers within ourselves and the world around us. It reflects the complexities of our own lives and relationships which we may have all around us and can experience in today’s world.

As a recommendation, "Verity" stands out as a must-read due to its gripping narrative, intricate plot twists, and the chilling exploration of psychological depths. Readers who enjoy suspenseful thrillers with a touch of mystery and psychological intrigue will find themselves engrossed in the pages of this book. It's particularly well-suited for those who appreciate stories that keep them guessing and challenge their perceptions of right and wrong. This book that delves into some darker themes and can be quite intense at times. So, if someone is sensitive to certain traumatic or heavy subjects, it might not be the best choice for them. It's always good to consider your own comfort level when choosing what to read. If you prefer lighter or more uplifting stories, there are plenty of other great options out there. It's all about finding what goes well with you and makes you feel good. So, keep that in mind when deciding whether or not to dive into Verity.

Different people might feel differently about this book. Some super good readers might say it's not really deep, but for people like me, who are just starting to read a lot, it could be awesome. However, I strongly feel that everyone should give this book a chance at least once. It's a special book that everyone should try out to see how they feel about it. It's like tasting something new—you never know if you like it until you give it a try. This book might be someone's favourite, while for others, it might not hit the spot. But the important thing is to give it a shot and see one can connect to this genre too, what you think. It's like taking different paths from your preference can sometimes, discover something amazing, and sometimes it's just not your thing. Verity is totally up to the reader to curve the imagination in their own way and decide whose truth is the lie ……

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The National Crafts Museum, also known as the Hastkala Academy, is located in New Delhi, India. It showcases a wide range of traditional Indian crafts and artifacts, celebrating the country's rich cultural heritage. The museum features a diverse collection of textiles, pottery, metalwork, woodwork, and other handicrafts from various regions of India. It serves as a hub for promoting and preserving indigenous crafts and skills, offering insights into the country's artistic traditions.

Location: national crafts museum pragati maidan

Timing: morning 10 am to 7 pm evening