New Delhi: India's capital has evolved over the years, but Old Delhi remains the heartbeat of the populace. The original heritage of the capital lies in Old Delhi, though it is a bit overcrowded during the daytime. This heritage of Delhi has also witnessed many changes over the years. Let's see the evolution of Old Delhi: 1. Chandni Chowk Flashback: Dr. Rajendra Prasad arrives on a horse carriage in Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk, horse carriages were used as a mode of transport before independence.One of the oldest and busiest markets of Delhi, built in 17th century by the Mughal emperor of India Shah Jahan and designed by his daughter Jahan Ara, the market was once divided by canals (now closed) to reflect moonlight, and it remains one of India's largest wholesale markets. A busy street of Chandni Chowk market in present times. 2. Kashmere Gate Northern gate to the historic walled city, built by Military Engineer Robert Smith in 1835.It used to start a road that led to Kashmir.Today, it is an important road junction as the Red Fort, ISBT and Delhi Junction railway station lie in its vicinity.Now: The Kashmere Gate metro station is a major metro station for connectivity and houses many food joints.The Maharana Pratap Inter-state bus terminus or ISBT is the oldest and one of the biggest Inter State Bus Terminals in India, operating bus services between Delhi and 7 states. 3. Chawri Bazar A picture of Chawri Bazaar market in 1870It's a wholesale market of brass, copper and paper products. The market was once a hub of courtesans in the 19th century. Once, the British invaded, the ‘tawaaif' culture faded out. The street is named after a Marathi word chawri, which means meeting place.Now: Busy road of Chawri BaazarToday, it is a busy market place for brass, copper and paper with narrow lanes, cars, rickshaws, scooters and walkers almost battle for the passage during the peak market hours.4. Darya Ganj Flashback: The Modern school now at Barakhamba road laid its foundation at DaryaganjIt was once part of the British Darya Ganj Cantonment, one of the earliest establishments of the British in Old Delhi. Its market was called Faiz Bazaar till the partition. Now: The book market at DaryaganjThe ‘Darya' stands for the river ‘Yamuna'. The flower market is also famous. Daryaganj is a majot commercial hub due to the offices of publishing houses.
Updated on: March 22, 2014 6:31 IST
