Red Fort and Old Delhi

Day 3 08.10.2024

My day starts today with a visit to the Lal Qila (The Red Fort). An impressive fortress complex from the 17th century. It was commissioned by Shah Jahan and solidified the power center of the Mughal government. The grounds are expansive and beautifully laid out.

In the early afternoon, I find myself back in Old Delhi at Chandni Chowk. I only stay briefly on the main street and disappear at the next opportunity into one of the small alleys. This is where the Bazaar of Old Delhi begins, so to speak. There is no clear boundary between business and life; everything happens in one place. There are countless alleys; I walk to the right, then to the left, it just keeps going. The alleys are divided by trades or goods, so you know your competition. The shops are small and crammed with merchandise, just like the alleys are packed with people, and when you think there is no more room to move, some honking two-stroke engine comes by and loosens the knot. I often slip into store entrances to follow the hustle and bustle with my mouth agape; it's wonderful. It is colorful, loud, and completely chaotic, yet people seem to go about their business with apparent calmness. They talk to each other, make phone calls, or negotiate. If there happens to be a collision between a person and a machine, they take a quick look, check if everything is okay, exchange a pat on the back, and continue on.
Eventually, I find myself back on the main street and meander towards the metro; it's time for a break.