# NCRLocal: Photowalk at Chandni Chowk (I)

Any travelogue on Delhi will not be complete without a mention of Chandni Chowk, a market place originally brought to life by Jahanara Begum. During its heydays canals existed here, near the center there was a pool which is said to have shimmered in moonlight at night, hence the name Chandni Chowk. The lanes of this iconic bazaar, which now have a changed complexion, witnessed many a decorated processions with all the fanfare when the Mughals’ seat was still intact in Delhi. Years have passed, no more are there reflections of moonlight, once beautiful lane, I assume, is now a congested noisy thoroughfare in Old Delhi, a living proof of transformation which has taken place here. First the British took control of the Mughal bastion after the mutiny and then social fabric totally changed after the partition. The Red Fort and Jama Masjid adjacent to this market remind you of the Mughal rule, however the fragments of that era have now amalgamated with the new hustling and busy market which it is now, making it a very interesting and lively place for a photo-walk. Everything and everyone has a story and is a subject to be captured.

I was more than excited at the first photo-walk I had undertaken in Chandni Chowk with a group of friends last year, walking through the lanes of this old bazaar while it was waking up to ready itself for another day was a great experience.

First up was Fatehpuri Masjid, built by Fatehpuri Begum in 1650 with the typical Mughal arches, canopies and pillars

It was early in the morning , the business outside was warming up and the premises inside was divinely calm.

The contrast of the these rusting bikes against the bright green and orange caught my eye   The place had come to life by the time we came out of Fatehpuri Masjid , that is when you get to see different facets of life which exist here ! He may not read the news himself but ensures that other’s get their share of news !   We walked ahead, the street already bustling with life     The early morning discussion took a pause for a pose ! After having spent close to two hours roaming around it was time for a cup of tea , you will find quite a few such stalls to satiate your longing for the beverage !

Hot Pooris and Halwa  made for a great breakfast ! From the forgotten past , remains of  Shahjahanabad. Finally with some help from the E Rickshaw we reached the great Jama Masjid, a huge and beautiful monument. It was well past 10’o clock and the hoards of tourists had already started coming in. We had spent quite a lot of time in the premises of Jama Masjid. The sun was now almost overhead, the golden hour was well and truly over. The walk was concluded, it was time to get ourselves a filling meal. Photo Walk arranged by Kumarjee School Of Photography https://www.facebook.com/kumarjeeschoolofphotography?fref=ts