Chandni Chowk, once a symbol of wealth and power in the 17th century Mughal Empire, has transformed into a bustling area known for its street food and historical significance. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan, it was home to the rich and powerful, but today its grandeur is fading. Ajay Pershad, an 80-year-old descendant of businessman Chunna Mal, remains in his 120-room ancestral mansion, holding onto the past as his family plans to sell the property. The mansion, built in 1864, stands as a reminder of Chandni Chowk's rich history, which includes iconic structures like Humayun’s Tomb and Jama Masjid.
People come from miles away to pray at the Shri Digambar Jain Lal Temple (red) and the Hindu Gauri Shankar Temple (orange) at Chandni Chowk Aishwarya S. Iyer/CNN
Over time, Chandni Chowk has changed, with many old homes being converted into commercial spaces. While the local government has revitalized the area by restricting traffic and creating pedestrian zones, residents like Dilip Saxena fear that Chandni Chowk's historical charm is fading as new developments, like malls, emerge. Despite these changes, Pershad is determined to stay, believing his family's legacy and the area's deep historical roots are worth preserving. The ongoing transformation of Chandni Chowk raises concerns about the future of its rich cultural heritage.
