INTRODCUTION
Chandni Chowk, located in Old Delhi, is a bustling market that has retained much of its historical charm.
The architecture and design of the area reflect its rich history, influenced by Mughal, colonial, and modern
styles. Here's an analysis of its architectural evolution from past to present using descriptions of
photographs, sketches, and paintings.
Historical Architecture and Design
Mughal Era:
Layout and Design:
Original Plan: Chandni Chowk was designed by Jahanara Begum, the daughter of Mughal Emperor
Shah Jahan, in the 17th century. The original layout included a central canal reflecting the moonlight,
which is how the market got its name (Chandni means "moonlit" in Hindi).
Structures: The market was lined with havelis (traditional townhouses), mosques, and gardens. The
buildings were characterized by intricate Mughal architecture with red sandstone facades, arched
gateways, and ornate jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies).
Prominent Structures:
Fatehpuri Masjid: Built by Fatehpuri Begum, one of Shah Jahan’s wives, this mosque is a prime
example of Mughal architecture with its large courtyard, minarets, and domes.
Havelis: Many havelis in the area, such as the Begum Samru's Palace, showcased typical Mughal
design with courtyards, high walls, and decorated facades.
Colonial Era:
Changes and Additions:
Architectural Influence: The British colonial period brought new architectural elements, including
Victorian and Edwardian styles, to the market area.
Commercial Buildings: New commercial structures were built with colonial architectural features
like decorative cornices, large windows, and verandas.
Prominent Structures:
Town Hall: Constructed in 1863, the Town Hall is a blend of Mughal and colonial architectural
styles. It served as a municipal center and is notable for its grand façade and classical columns.
Clock Tower: Once a prominent feature, the Ghantaghar (Clock Tower) built by the British, stood
tall in Chandni Chowk until it was demolished in the 20th century. It was an iconic structure with a
distinct colonial design.
PRODUCTS SOLD FROM VARIOUS PARTS OF THE MARKET.
Chandni Chowk, known for its vibrant and diverse marketplace, offers a wide range of products and articles
across its various sections. Here’s a breakdown of the different materials, products, and articles sold in
various parts of the market:
1. Spices and Dry Fruits
Khari Baoli:
Spices: Turmeric, cumin, coriander, cardamom, saffron, cloves, pepper, cinnamon, bay leaves, etc.
Dry Fruits: Almonds, cashews, pistachios, walnuts, raisins, apricots, figs, dates, etc.
Herbs and Teas: Traditional Indian herbs and various types of tea.
2. Textiles and Fabrics
Katra Neel:
Fabrics: Silk, satin, cotton, muslin, georgette, chiffon, velvet, etc.
Saris and Dress Materials: A wide variety of saris, lehengas, and dress materials.
Wedding Attire: Bridal wear, including heavily embroidered saris and lehengas.
Kinari Bazaar:
Trimmings and Borders: Laces, ribbons, fringes, and borders used in garment decoration.
Embroidery Materials: Threads, sequins, beads, and other embroidery supplies.
3. Jewelry
Dariba Kalan:
Gold and Silver Jewelry: Necklaces, earrings, bangles, rings, and other traditional jewelry.
Precious Stones: Diamond, ruby, emerald, sapphire, and other gemstones.
Costume Jewelry: Affordable and trendy artificial jewelry.
4. Electronics and Gadgets
Bhagirath Palace:
Electronics: Consumer electronics like televisions, audio systems, and home appliances.
Lighting: A wide range of lighting solutions, including decorative lights and chandeliers.
Electrical Goods: Wires, switches, electrical fittings, and accessories.
5. Books and Stationery
Nai Sarak:
Books: Academic textbooks, novels, competitive exam guides, and second-hand books.
Stationery: Notebooks, pens, pencils, art supplies, and other office supplies.
6. Clothing and Footwear
Ballimaran:
Traditional Footwear: Mojris and juttis (traditional Indian shoes).
Clothing: Ready-made garments, including ethnic wear, casual wear, and children's clothing.
Chhatta Chowk:
Souvenirs: Handicrafts, miniatures, and traditional artifacts.
Clothing: Shawls, scarves, and ethnic wear.
7. Food and Eateries
Paranthe Wali Gali:
Parathas: Various types of stuffed parathas (Indian flatbreads).
Street Food: Chaat, golgappas, and other popular Indian snacks.
Sweets: Traditional Indian sweets like jalebi, rabri, and halwa.
Fatehpuri Market:
Confectioneries: Indian sweets and snacks.
Dairy Products: Milk, paneer, ghee, and other dairy products.
8. Brassware and Kitchen Utensils
Matia Mahal:
Brassware: Traditional brass utensils, decorative items, and artifacts.
Kitchen Utensils: Stainless steel cookware, cutlery, and kitchen gadgets.
9. Perfumes and Attar
Guliyan Street:
Perfumes: Traditional Indian perfumes (attar) made from natural ingredients.
Incense and Essential Oils: Various types of incense sticks and essential oils.
10. Furniture and Home Decor
Chawri Bazaar:
Paper Products: Wedding cards, invitation cards, and stationery.
Home Decor: Wooden furniture, decorative items, and artifacts.
Summary
Chandni Chowk is a bustling marketplace offering a vast array of products ranging from traditional Indian
spices and dry fruits to modern electronics and home decor. Each section of the market specializes in
different items, making it a comprehensive destination for shoppers seeking variety and quality. The
market's rich history and cultural significance are reflected in the diversity of products available.
HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN OF CHANDNI CHOWK
Mughal Era:
Founding and Layout:
Establishment: Chandni Chowk was established in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah
Jahan when he shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi.
Design: Designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s daughter, the market was originally set around
a large square with a reflecting pool in the center, giving it its name (Chandni means "moonlit" in
Hindi).
Central Canal: A canal ran through the center of the market, reflecting moonlight and providing a
cooling effect. It was lined with trees and shops, creating a picturesque setting.
Architectural Features:
Havelis: The market was surrounded by havelis (mansions) with intricate Mughal architecture,
featuring red sandstone, carved facades, and ornate jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies).
Mosques and Gardens: The area included several mosques, such as the Fatehpuri Masjid and Jama
Masjid, along with lush gardens.
Prominent Structures:
Fatehpuri Masjid: Built by Fatehpuri Begum, one of Shah Jahan’s wives, this mosque exemplifies
Mughal architecture with its large courtyard and domes.
Red Fort: Located at one end of Chandni Chowk, the Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site
and a prime example of Mughal fort architecture.
Colonial Era:
Changes and Additions:
British Influence: The British colonial period introduced new architectural elements, including
Victorian and Edwardian styles.
Commercial Buildings: New commercial buildings were constructed with colonial architectural
features such as decorative cornices, large windows, and verandas.
Prominent Structures:
Town Hall: Built in 1863, the Town Hall blends Mughal and colonial architectural styles, serving as
a municipal center with its grand façade and classical columns.
Clock Tower: The Ghantaghar (Clock Tower), built by the British, was once a prominent landmark
before its demolition in the 20th century.
Modern Era:
Contemporary Changes:
Commercialization: Over time, Chandni Chowk has seen significant commercialization with
modern buildings, shops, and kiosks replacing many traditional structures.
Renovation Projects: Recent initiatives aim to restore and preserve the heritage of Chandni Chowk,
including pedestrianization, façade restoration, and infrastructure improvements.
Road Map and Layout
Original Plan:
Grid Pattern: Chandni Chowk was designed in a grid pattern with wide streets and a central canal.
Main Street: The main street ran from the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort to Fatehpuri Masjid,
intersected by smaller lanes and by-lanes.
Modern Layout:
Main Arteries: The main arterial road remains Chandni Chowk, stretching from the Red Fort to
Fatehpuri Masjid.
Key Areas:
o Khari Baoli: Famous for its wholesale spice market.
o Dariba Kalan: Known for jewelry shops.
o Nai Sarak: Renowned for books and stationery.
o Ballimaran: Known for traditional footwear and optical shops.
o Katra Neel: Famous for fabrics and textiles.
o Kinari Bazaar: Known for wedding attire and trimmings.
Connecting Roads: The main street is connected to smaller markets and residential areas via a
network of narrow lanes and alleys.
Infrastructure and Facilities:
Transportation: Chandni Chowk is well-connected by road and rail, with the Old Delhi Railway
Station nearby and metro services improving accessibility.
Warehousing: Numerous small to medium-sized warehouses support the commercial activities of
the market.
Communication Systems: Modern communication infrastructure, including internet and telecom
services, support business operations.
Summary
Chandni Chowk's architectural and design history reflects its evolution from a Mughal-era market with a
grand layout and intricate buildings to a bustling modern marketplace. Its grid pattern, central canal (now
covered), and significant structures like the Red Fort and Fatehpuri Masjid highlight its historical
importance. The market’s design has adapted over time to accommodate increasing commercialization while
efforts continue to preserve its rich heritage.
