Key Points
Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan, it reflected the wealth of the once mighty Mughal empire, quickly becoming one of Indias most desirable districts, where the rich and powerful resided in fashionable mansions.. ..
Today, this corner of the historic walled city Old Delhi has a different vibe, attracting visitors to a lively street food scene..
Not Ajay Pershad, though.. . Aged 80 but still going strong, Pershad sits in the courtyard of his grand 120-room ancestral mansion, almost the last man standing of Chandni Chowks old guard, holding on to the splendor of a bygone age...
It is the only living mansion on the historic street of Chandni Chowk, says Pershad, a descendant of Chunna Mal, a moneylender and businessman who built the home way back, according to an inscribed golden slab inside the buildings hallway, in 1864.. ..
The districts oldest street, right in the heart of Delhi begins at the entrance of the Mughal-era Red Fort, where the annual Independence Day flag hoisting is overseen by Indias prime minister, and stretches 1,400 yards to the 17th century Fatehpuri mosque.. . Bustling with businessmen, cycle rickshaws, and shoppers whove come in to buy clothes and jewelry or eat the mouth-watering food, it draws In thousands of tourists and visitors each day..
