So, before we kick off the brief history of Chandni Chowk, here’s a fun fact. The marketplace was once called the Moonlight Square as it was divided by a canal to reflect the moonlight, hence the name.
Before: Chandni Chowk Was Divided By A Canal
Moreover, the erstwhile Moonlight Square was initially created in a square format. And all the shops here were built in a half moon shaped pattern.
Additionally, the canal/pool in the middle of it was replaced by a clock tower! In fact, even today the center of the market is referred to as Ghantaghar.
The Plan: Ideated And Executed
The middle of the market was divided into three section:
- Lahori Gate to Chowk Kotwali – this section was closest to the imperial residence and was called Urdu Bazaar.
- Chowk Kotwali to Chandni Chowk – the term Chandni Chowk was coined referring to the square that had a reflecting pool. Initially, the place was called Johri Bazaar.
- Chandni Chowk to Fatehpuri Masjid: this was called Fatehpuri Bazaar.
Today: One Of The Busiest Markets In Delhi With
The market today houses 10 mansions and havelis. It has stores that sell more than 1,000 sweets in one go!
So, it took us close to 3.5 minutes to go through. How about you?
Cover Image Courtesy | Source
