The Delhi Metro, a lifeline for millions in IndiaтАЩs bustling capital, witnesses a staggering number of commuters each year, more than the entire population of the United States! With Delhi being one of the most densely populated and polluted cities in the world, the Metro plays a crucial role in managing the cityтАЩs ever-increasing urban sprawl. But have you ever wondered where your fare goes or how this massive transport system impacts DelhiтАЩs dynamics? In this blog, weтАЩll explore the most interesting facts about the Delhi Metro, from its cutting-edge technology and sustainability efforts to its effect on pollution, population, and urban growth. While most might think of it as simply a mode of transportation, the Delhi Metro has a much deeper impact on the environment, social welfare, and even popular culture. Let us uncover the fascinating world behind one of the busiest metro systems in the world!┬а(Delhi Metro)
1.A Positive Contributor to the Environment
You might assume that a massive rail network like the Delhi Metro contributes to the cityтАЩs pollution, but it actually does the opposite! The Delhi Metro is certified by the United Nations as the worldтАЩs first rail-based system to receive *carbon credits* for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It helps reduce a whopping 624,000 tonnes of greenhouse emissions annually in the city. This eco-friendly initiative makes the Delhi Metro a critical asset in the fight against air pollution in the capital.
Did you know that your metro fare is indirectly contributing to the welfare of street children? The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has taken a unique initiative by running a childrenтАЩs home for the betterment of underprivileged children. The money collected from fares supports this home, which is equipped with dormitories, classrooms, computer rooms, and many other resources to help educate and nurture these young ones. This initiative is a beautiful blend of transportation and social responsibility.┬а
3.Why Metro Trains Have an Even Number of Coaches
Have you ever wondered why the Delhi Metro always has an even number of coaches? The answer is quite technical but fascinating! Metro trains once operated with four coaches, and now many have six or eight. This is due to the two types of coaches in the metro system: the тАШDтАЩ car, which is the driverтАЩs cabin that pulls electricity from overhead wires, and the тАШMтАЩ car, which is the motor car. The тАШMтАЩ car houses three-phase induction motors responsible for power transmission. Together, the тАШDтАЩ and тАШMтАЩ cars function as one operational unit, and they cannot run independently. Thus, metro trains always operate with an even number of coaches.┬а
┬а4.AsiaтАЩs Largest Escalator at Janakpuri┬а
If youтАЩve traveled through the Janakpuri West metro station, you may have noticed something extraordinary тАУ it houses AsiaтАЩs largest escalator! At a staggering height of around 5 floors, this escalator has become one of the key attractions at the station, adding a new level of grandeur to the cityтАЩs metro infrastructure.
5. A Star of the Silver Screen
The beauty of the Delhi Metro has not gone unnoticed by filmmakers. Many iconic movies have featured scenes shot on the metro, making it a recognizable symbol across India. The first movie to be filmed here was Bewafaa in 2003, followed by many others like Delhi-6, Love Aaj Kal, PK, and Paa. Its sleek design and modern aesthetic have made it a preferred location for shooting, reflecting the cityтАЩs evolving landscape.
The Delhi Metro Is much more than just a way to get from point A to point B. ItтАЩs a sustainable solution for DelhiтАЩs pollution, a supporter of social causes, a host of record-breaking infrastructure, and a favourite among filmmakers. The next time you step into a metro station, take a moment to appreciate the role it plays, both in your life and in the cityтАЩs broader landscape.┬а
Dariba Kalan, located in the Old Delhi region, is a famous street that began to be constructed in the 17th century rich in artistic endeavors and commercial activities. In that context, this street ‘Dariba Kalan’ which means Street of the Incomparable Pearl, is a walking proof of the deep-seated mughal history which can be credited as a legacy back to the rule of Emperor Shah Jahan. Anyway, Dariba Kalan has remained distrait to the people but has only merged herself in picturesqueness, jewelry shops and local activities over the years. This 2-kilometer-long street is also filled with elaborate patterns of decorative gold, silver and tribal ornaments draping centuries-old history around them.
┬аHistorical Significance
Dariba Kalan dates back to the era of great Shah Jahan. The term “Dariba” is derived from a Persian phrase “Dur-e be-baha” which literally translates to ‘pearl without a parallel while Kalan means big in Persian. As word suggests, this place was once full of jewelers, workmen, and retailers selling ornamental, gold and silver items. This particular market area, established in the 17th century, catered to royal households, particularly that of the queens, earning it a status of an aristocratic retail sector.
Nevertheless, the thoroughfare is also blighted by darker histories. For example in 1739 when Nadir Shah invaded, Dariba also experienced and witnessed mass killings and pillage. Nevertheless, this stunning street has not only survived, but also thrived as a unique component of the city’s history, capable of retaining its characteristic features for centuries.
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USP of Dariba Kalan– Apart from the fact that it selis a lot of jewellery, there is really no other unique selling proposition for Dariba Kalan. This narrow and aged and narrow street has been a haven for gold and silver ornaments for centuries, so one can still spot many a window shopper hoping to find some traditional and vintage jewellery. The shops are quite old, some of them even go back to the early nineteenth century; and everything between silver antiques to chuda and kallirey bridal jewellery can be found in the shops over here. This has been the case with many other names like Meerimal Sultan Singh Jain, Dhannumal Jagadhar Mal and Lily Diana, where shops have been established for many years and generation after generation, children have taken over the running of the businesses.
Yet another rich aspect of Dariba is that it is reasonably successful in marrying the age old practices with new age demands. You will also come across some Nepal and Tibetan jewelleries thus contributing to the market premised diversification. Besides jewelry, Dariba Kalan is also well known for the attar (natural perfumes) shops found within it. Perfume museums, as well as this fragrance harvest, are based on a skill that has been handed down through the years, which is quite the art, that of plunging essences into petals and leaves. Taking an olfactory trip down these old fashioned fragrances proves to be quite satisfying and therefore propels Dariba as one of the ideal shoppers’ paradise.
┬аCulinary Delights of Dariba
Dariba Kalan additionally entices visitors with its culinary offerings. The street is dotted with various eating joints including Old Famous Jalebi Wala, a delightful dessert shop that has been serving piping hot and dipped in syrup-crispy jalebis since the year 1844, this particular vendor who is positioned right at the entrance is quite popular amongst the locals and is needless to say, an addition worth making to the itinerary if the intention is going shopping with some sugary elements attached to it.
On par with this establishment is Shree Bala J Kachori Bhandar, which spoils one for choice with delectable breakfast items including but not limited to kachori-aloo and bedmi poori. Such culinary landmarks tilt the balance towards a street that is otherwise popular for food in Old Delhi.
┬аArchitectural Heritage
In addition to the thriving stores, Dariba Kalan has architectural wonders too. The stretch comprises of many havelis or Indian mansions and other constructions from the Mughal period, some of which are in good condition while others bear the scars of Time. One such structure is the Khazanchi Ki Havell, which was the residence of the Mughal treasurer but now sits in ruins, a shadow of Dariba’s glorious past. Also, Naughara Lane which is located not far, has nine beautifully patterned houses that present an Insight into the traditional architectural and cultural practices of the people of Delhi.
Kinari Bazaar
Lying adjacent to the famous Dariba Kalan is the noisy Kinari Bazar, a very marika! It starts at Prem Chand Gole Wale Chowk and is famous for its decorative Items like gota patti, lace, wedding turban, shagun, decorative trays, jewel boxes, etc. et cetera. Kinar Bazaar is also the same bazaar which gets its name from kinari, which means borders. These borders are attached to the sarees and suits. All the embellishments for bride’s and bride’ s family attire and house chandeliers can be found here.
Almost all the items in Kinari Bazaar are sold in wholesales, though some patterns of these as plain and simple items are also available. How prevalent this is depends on what you are looking for, and the most basic knickknack, such as wedding ornaments, fabrics or any toss in between are in bulky unbelievable spectrum. Kinari Bazaar might be small with tiny cramped up shops, but the quality and distinctiveness of its many different fits products makes it A must go place for the native as well as the visitor.
Dariba Kalan along with nearby Kinari Bazaar is enriched with historical aspects, bustling markets, and culture, which is just a small portion of what makes it more Interesting to explore. From beautiful jewelery and fragrant attar shops to a wide collection of decorative borders and low-cost fabrics, these streets exhibit the assimilation of modernity with history, it does not matter if you are a history buff, a jewelry patron, or a culinary explorer, the markets do offer an amazing experience of the Old World Delhi in all its glory.
SafdarjungтАЩs Tomb, considered one of DelhiтАЩs most prominent architectural landmarks, stands as a testimony to the metropolis’s rich history. Built in 1754, it became the last grand Mughal lawn tomb constructed in India, marking the end of an technology. Unlike other tombs in Delhi, which frequently residence the stays of emperors or royalty, SafdarjungтАЩs Tomb is unique as it’s far the resting location of a prime minister, now not a king or prince, making it historically enormous in a unique context.
The man behind the monument: Safdarjung
Mirza Mukeem Abul Mansoor Khan, nicknamed Safdarjung, was a powerful Nawab of Oudh (now Uttar Pradesh) and served as the High Commissioner (Wazir) of the Mughal Empire during the reign of Emperor Ahmad Shah Bahadur. Safdar Jang was born in Persia, and gained fame through his military prowess and political acumen. His role as general gave him great power, although he faced considerable political struggle within the empire.
Though Safdar Jang was not a royal by birth, his influence in Mughal politics necessitated the construction of this magnificent mausoleum. The tomb reflects the high esteem in which he was held and the glory of his political and military career.
The Tomb’s Architecture: A blend with of Persian and Indian styles
Designed by an Ethiopian architect, Safdar JungтАЩs tomb displays a mixture of Persian and Indian architectural styles. The tomb is often compared to the iconic tomb of Humayun, which inspired its design, but it has unique features that make it impressive in its own right
The building is constructed of red sandstone and buff stone, with magnificent marbles, showing the grandeur of the Mughal style. The central dome, which has recently been attempted to be restored by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is a magnificent feature that commands the surrounding garden skyline ASI’s restoration project aims to preserve the dome’s interior stucco work if it has ensured the longevity of this historic monument.
The cemetery sits amidst the Charbagh Gardens, a typical Mughal design symbol of paradise. Divided into four quadrants by paths and channels, this garden was designed to enhance the peaceful and sacred aura surrounding the tomb.
Architectural highlights
One of the most putting functions of Safdarjung’s Tomb is its principal octagonal chamber wherein Safdarjung’s stays relaxation. The tricky latticework on the windows, which allows mild to filter into the tomb, creates an airy surroundings inside the mausoleum. The tomb also features extraordinary gateways, every crafted with specified ornamentation, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
The monument has 4 minarets and a grand gateway, which is inscribed with a Persian couplet that interprets to: тАЬWhen the hero of simple bravery departs from the transitory, might also he emerge as a resident of GodтАЩs paradise.тАЭ These capabilities collectively represent SafdarjungтАЩs prominence and the Mughal architectural mastery that emphasized symmetry, share, and tricky detailing.
Historical significance
While Safdarjung changed into a high minister and now not a member of the imperial own family, the development of this sort of grand tomb highlights the huge function that viziers and ministers performed at some stage in the later Mughal duration. The tomb is a image of the shift in energy dynamics within the declining Mughal Empire, in which officials like Safdarjung held more power than the emperor himself.
The tomb additionally marks the end of the Mughal architectural culture in India. After SafdarjungтАЩs Tomb, the Mughal architectural style started out to decline, and no similarly grand monuments of such scale had been constructed. Thus, the tomb stands now not handiest as a memorial to Safdarjung however also as a monument to the last days of Mughal glory.
Preservation and restoration In latest years, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has undertaken numerous initiatives to repair and maintain SafdarjungтАЩs Tomb. Restoration work, specifically on the dome, is important to preserving the monumentтАЩs structural integrity and its aesthetic splendour. The ASI has been running meticulously to restore the broken sections of the tomb, including the critical dome, which had suffered from put on over the centuries due to weather and forget.
This healing isn’t handiest approximately maintaining the monument for future generations however additionally about respecting the rich historical past of Mughal structure. The paintings is expected to be finished through July, making sure that the tomb stays a important part of DelhiтАЩs historic panorama.
Visiting Safdarjung tomb
SafdarjungтАЩs Tomb is located in the heart of Delhi, making it easily available to visitors. It stays a popular web page for vacationers, historians, and locals alike. The serene gardens surrounding the tomb provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis, at the same time as the complicated architecture affords a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the Mughal era.
As visitors stroll thru the grand gateway and explore the tomb and gardens, they are transported back in time to an technology of Mughal beauty, wherein the tomb of a top minister may want to rival that of an emperor. The tombтАЩs combo of Persian and Indian styles, coupled with its historical importance, makes it one of the have to-visit monuments in Delhi.
SafdarjungтАЩs Tomb isn’t always only a monument; it is a symbol of a converting generation in Mughal India. It stands as a reminder of the electricity held by way of men like Safdarjung during the waning days of the empire. Its particular position as the tomb of a top minister rather than a royal makes it a big ancient website online, while its lovely architecture maintains to captivate site visitors. The ongoing healing efforts by way of the ASI ensure that this monument will maintain to inspire and teach destiny generations about DelhiтАЩs wealthy and diverse beyond.
SafdarjungтАЩs Tomb, in its grandeur and records, serves as a window into the complexities of Mughal politics, culture, and structure, making it a jewel in DelhiтАЩs rich historical past
Research by- Khushi Aggarwal/Edited by- Pardeep Kumar
тАЬJourney Through Mughal Grandeur and Architectural MarvelsтАЭ Exploring HumayunтАЩs Tomb offers a captivating journey through history, architecture, and culture.(Humayun’s Tomb – Delhi’s Mughal Masterpiece)
History of ┬аHumayunтАЩs Tomb
HumayunтАЩs Tomb, located in Delhi, India, is a mausoleum built for the Mughal Emperor Humayun. It was commissioned by his widow, Empress Bega Begum, in 1569-70, nine years after his death. The tomb was designed by the Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, who introduced Persian architectural elements to India, marking the beginning of Mughal architecture.
MyExperience of HumayunтАЩs Tomb
Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to visit HumayunтАЩs Tomb, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From my hotel in bhikaji Cama Place. I took Auto which cost 300 Rupees however only being six miles. The nearest Stations are Nizamuddin Railway Station and JLN Stadium station on the violet Line of the Delhi Metro.
Tickets
Finally I was entered in humayunтАЩs tomb then joined line to buy my tickets. The foreigner entrance fee for humayunтАЩs tomb was 600 Rupees however Indian Nationals only pay 40 Rupees Children under 15 can enter free of charge. Phones were allowed there.
I reached there at 1 :00pm with my friends. It was the best time for visit because you will find less crowd at that time .Stepping through the gates, I felt transported to another era, where the rich history of the Mughal Empire seemed to come alive in every intricate detail of the architecture. The red sandstone walls and intricately carved marble facades exuded a sense of majesty and splendour that was simply awe-inspiring.
Entering the tomb, I was enveloped by a sense of reverence as I gazed upon the tombs of Emperor Humayun and his family. The dimly lit interior and hushed whispers of other visitors created an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection, reminding me of the enduring legacy of the Mughal dynasty. The main entrance gateway of HumayunтАЩs Tomb, known as the Buland Darwaza, stands at an impressive height of around 15 meters(49 feet).
This towering gateway features intricate carvings and ornate embellishments typical of Mughal architecture. Its majestic presence serves as a grand introduction to the monument and adds to the awe-inspiring atmosphere surrounding HumayunтАЩs Tomb. The garden is divided into four equal quadrants by pathways or water channels, creating a symmetrical and geometrically pleasing arrangement. Each quadrant is further subdivided into smaller squares or rectangles, often planted with trees, flowers, and other vegetation.
Charbagh layout
The Charbagh layout symbolizes the concept of paradise in Islamic tradition, representing the four rivers of water, milk, honey, and wine flowing in paradise. This design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves practical purposes such as irrigation and drainage.
Surrounding the central chamber, there are additional graves of other notable figures, including Empress Bega Begum, the principal wife of Humayun, and other members of the royal family. These graves are also made of white marble and feature similar ornate carvings and inscriptions. The interior of the mausoleum creates a solemn and reverential atmosphere, with visitors paying their respects to the departed rulers and reflecting on the legacy of the Mughal Empire. The presence of these graves adds to the historical and cultural significance of HumayunтАЩs Tomb, making it not just a monument of architectural brilliance but also a sacred space honoring the memory of the Mughal dynasty.
I spent just over 3 hours at humayunтАЩs tomb and left just 4:00 pm. Then me and my friends enjoyed the street food outside the humayunтАЩs tomb we were having Chole Kulche, Pani Puri/Gol Gappa, Aloo Tikki, Jalebi then we took soft drinks like Coca cola, Pepsi.
Around HumayunтАЩs Tomb, there are several markets and areas where visitors can explore and shop for various items, including souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, and more. Sundar Nursery Market: Located adjacent to HumayunтАЩs Tomb, Sundar Nursery hosts a small market offering traditional Indian handicrafts, artifacts, and souvenirs. Visitors can also find plants, gardening accessories, and decorative items here.
Emerging from the mausoleum, I took one last lingering look at the magnificent structure before me, feeling grateful for the opportunity to have experienced such a remarkable piece of history. As I bid farewell to HumayunтАЩs Tomb, I carried with me not just memories of a journey through time, but a renewed appreciation for the beauty, craftsmanship, and enduring legacy of this architectural masterpiece.
Written by -Shalini Rawat /// Edited by- Pardeep Kumar
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