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Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
India's 5 most colorful markets that will leave you speechless
India is not a country that honors color—its culture seeps into every aspect of life through the very colors themselves. From celebrations to celebrations, attire to belief, color is the heart of Indian life. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Few places are you more likely to witness it than in its stunning local markets. They are not just places to shop but living experiences where every turn is dazzling and every shot is like a painting brought to life. Here are five of India's most vibrant bazaars that look almost too beautiful to be real. Johari Bazaar, Jaipur (Rajasthan) Step into Johari Bazaar, and you're instantly wrapped in a royal palette of pinks, reds, golds, and emerald greens. Known for its exquisite gemstone and jewelry trade, this market glitters—literally. The word Johari means jeweler, and true to its name, the bazaar is lined with stores selling handcrafted ornaments, enamel work, and traditional Rajasthani designs. The backdrop of Jaipur's 'Pink City' architecture makes the experience all the more magical. What to see: Kundan and Meenakari jewelry, embroidered lehengas, and bangles made by hand. Chandni Chowk, Delhi At the heart of Old Delhi stands a more than 300-year-old marketplace that's still bustling. Chandni Chowk is a discordant, kaleidoscope-filled symphony of sounds, smells, and visuals. From stores selling saris in every possible color to malodorous spice stalls, blindingly white wedding outfits to dazzling trims at Kinari Bazaar, it's an experience of the senses. What not to miss: Sparkly jewelry, aromatic spices, and a taste of the legendary parathas stuffed at Paranthe Wali Gali. Munnar Spice Market , Kerala Munnar, a hill station in Kerala, is not only known for its tea plantations. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Its spice stalls in the local bazaars are a rainbow and scented treat. Bunches of bright red chilies, yellow turmeric, green cardamom, and brown cinnamon turn these stalls into natural color palettes. The aroma of the fresh spices in the air makes it an unforgettable experience. What to see: Cardamom pods, pepper, and hand-rolled tea mixes. Laad Bazaar, Hyderabad (Telangana) Near the ancient Charminar, Laad Bazaar shines with hundreds of bangle shops. Lacquer bangles in riotous jewel hues, studded with stones and sequins, line the streets, reflecting sunlight and a rainbow of colors. Bridal attire and traditional Hyderabadi accessories are also available at the bazaar. What not to miss: bangles, zari dupattas, and pearls. Mapusa Market, Goa Contrary to typical tourist bazars, Mapusa Market gives you an idea of real Goan life. Locals and tourists flock here every Friday to shop for colorful spices, fresh vegetables, homemade pickles, and hippie-style clothing. The market is an amalgamation of sea beauty and countryside charm. What not to miss: Coconut-based sweets, Goan sausages, and psychedelic beachwear.
India.com
04-05-2025
- India.com
Discover The Secrets Of Delhi's Oldest Streets On A Unique Walking Tour
Delhi represents a manifestation of historical treasure coexisting peacefully with present-day lifestyle in India's capital region. Over multiple centuries numerous empires and cultural groups have influenced Delhi into becoming a museum where human civilization continuously exists today. The city of Delhi holds precious its most antique walkways which served as pathways for dynasties while trade expanded and ordinary people lived there across the generations. The historic lanes allow visitors to see the past through time along with direct engagement with living traditional ways of life despite urban development acceleration. The Historical Context of Delhi's Streets Archeological records confirm that Delhi was first settled about four millennia ago going back to 6th century BCE. Seven major cities developed inside the area we recognize as Delhi and each has preserved aspects of their development including architecture and cultural elements and infrastructure. The city of Delhi has seven ancient city layers which include Indraprastha as described in the Mahabharata along with Lal Kot, Siri, Tughlaqabad, Ferozabad, Dinpanah and Shahjahanabad. All historical layers in Delhi combine to form the complex street system which exists in contemporary Delhi. Shahjahanabad stands as the most recognizable historical district which Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built within its walls during 1639. The developers established Shahjahanabad to function as an imperial capital through its arrangement of wide streets and labyrinthine pathways and imperial forts with active bazaars. The time period has left behind several ancient living streets throughout Delhi which continue to reflect the city's past glory. Chandni Chowk Outside of Delhi people recognize Chandni Chowk as India's most popular market but also as one of its oldest living streets. Shah Jahan ordered the construction of Chandni Chowk during his reign because the Moonlit Square created beautiful moonlight reflections across its central canal. A commercial and spiritual center with culinary highlights currently operates today. Chandni Chowk provides visitors with an authentic experience of a timeless atmosphere. Shopping venues which supply both traditional spices and modern electronic products line both sections of the street. These business stores conceal numerous temples and mosques and churches built throughout multiple centuries which showcase the multicultural past of the area. Among its important landmarks within Chandni Chowk are the Jama Masjid as India's biggest mosque and Sisganj Gurudwara to honor Guru Tegh Bahadur while the Digambar Jain Temple stands out with its intricate temple carvings. Chandni Chowk boasts a food reputation that rivals any other area in the world. The street vendors of Chandni Chowk present three famous delicacies with Paranthe Wali Gali parathas along with jalebis from Old Famous Jalebi Wala and kebabs from Karim's. As you chew each morsel you consume you experience the historic family recipes that have been shared across the years. Dariba Kalan Visitors to Old Delhi will discover deserts demolished with premium gold and silver jewelry everywhere they look at Dariba Kalan . During the Mughal period artisans worked on creating elaborate royal pieces within this street which extends back to the era. The old market of Dariba Kalan continues to enchant people because it offers both classic jewelry designs and modern trends to its customers. Walk through Dariba Kalan and witness artists working at their workshops preserving age-old jewelry techniques they have inherited through generations. Metal hammers reverberate throughout the area against metal materials to produce the ageless artwork that characterizes this part of the community. Kinari Bazaar The Indian wedding market comes alive in Kinari Bazaar which stands adjacent to the famous Chandni Chowk shopping district. This market focuses on providing bridal accessories along with decorative items and ceremonial products to its customers. The assortment of elaborate chandeliers along with embroidered fabrics and colorful bangles completely covers the requirements for festivities at Kinari Bazaar. The specific charm of Kinari Bazaar stands out due to its extensive range of colorful and textural displays. The merchandisers passionately organize their products at this Indian market to create an overwhelming visual display based on traditional festival preferences. The place's continuous magnetism is proven through the distinct order which persists despite the collective disorder. Ballimaran Literature and intellectual history enthusiasts must see Ballimaran because of its historical importance. Mirza Ghalib resided here in this peaceful street thus making this spot one of seminal importance for Urdu poetry. Visitors can now see the life story of Ghalib by visiting his former mansion which now functions as a memorial. Walking through Ballimaran the sounds of Ghalib's literary contributions seem to hang in the air above the stone pathway. The present day evolution of Old Delhi can be observed within Ballimaran. While some parts retain their old-world charm, others bear signs of modern development. The essence of this district perpetuates itself to welcome people seeking ties between Delhi's literary tradition. Nai Sarak A visit to Delhi's oldest streets must include Nai Sarak because it offers bibliophiles a perfect destination. Nai Sarak operates as Delhi's biggest market specializing in second-hand books and stretches throughout numerous shops which present books from all possible subjects. Every book seeker can find their ideal find in this street because Nai Sarak offers an infinite array of literary discoveries. Nai Sarak creates its lively atmosphere by attracting an unconventional client base which includes both students and scholars together with collectors and ordinary readers. Talking prices with vendors has become a fundamental aspect that enhances the exclusive character when shopping at these stores. The conservation of historical sites continues during times of modern development pressure The oldest streets of Delhi attract visitors but they actively battle various obstacles that emerge in contemporary times. The process of urban growth together with environmental contamination and habitat takeover endangers their survival. Government bodies, NGO members and local communities unite their efforts to protect historic areas thus ensuring visitors can access these places for years to come. Final Thoughts Traversing Delhi's oldest residential areas provides visitors with a chance to travel through historical periods. Traveling through Chandni Chowk to Ballimaran reveals distinct historical perspectives that enable you to understand the colorful past of the city. These existing ancient passageways function beyond surface structures because they contain historical memories and social heritage along with community dreams.
Time of India
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Is Indian street food becoming global soft power?
No foreign policy advisor could've predicted that the real diplomatic breakthrough would arrive wrapped in a banana leaf or sizzling on a tava. But Indian street food , in all its chaotic, chaat-laden glory, has emerged as the country's most flavour-packed cultural ambassador . These humble bites have found their way to state banquets, global forums, and presidential palates—doing what white papers and handshakes often can't. More and more diplomats are ditching formality, proving that sometimes the quickest route to connection is through India's street food. In 2025, somewhere between a bite of litti and a dollop of chokha, Keiichi Ono, Japanese Ambassador to India, found his Bihar moment. 'Gajab Swad Ba!' he posted, and the Bhojpuri internet exploded. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Walmart Photos Which Are Not For Everyone Old Money Style Undo 'Dosa, idli, sambar, and chutney' was making quiet diplomatic moves in 2023- long before it became a Gen Z trend, when Italian Ambassador Vincenzo De Luca took to the streets of Delhi to enjoy a classic South Indian breakfast. His love for samosas, dosas, chai, and all things spicy was already well underway In June 2023, Hiroshi Suzuki, Japanese Ambassador to India and Bhutan, bit into Pune's vada pav-misal combo and instantly met Maharashtra's firepower. His 'Thoda teekha kam please' plea on X was the most diplomatic spice negotiation we've seen yet. German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann indulged deeply in Delhi's rich food scene—from Karim's kebabs to the delights of Paranthe Wali Gali. In interviews, he's often expressed his admiration for Indian cuisine , but it's mangoes that truly have his heart. 'Europe deserves good mangoes,' he quipped once, championing the cause of Indian mango exports with sweet conviction. From cart to carte India's street food became VIP protocol: Turns out, when it comes to international diplomacy, a plate of chat does more than a policy paper—here's when Indian street food turned into the star of the summit: • G20 Summit, New Delhi, September 2023 : Delegates were treated to an elaborate vegetarian spread representing India's rich culinary traditions, including Mughlai cuisine, South Indian dishes, and chaat from across the country. • Luncheon for spouses of world leaders, September 2023: At the National Gallery of Modern Art, spouses of world leaders enjoyed a diverse array of cuisines, including 'tadka dal' and 'chaat' straight from the bustling streets of Delhi • Breakfast for Netherlands PM and Deputy PM, September 2023: Chef Davinder Kumar served a special breakfast to Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte and Deputy Prime Minister Sigrid Kaag, featuring South Indian favourites like idli, medu vada, masala dosa, sambar, coconut chutney, and filter coffee.
Time of India
26-04-2025
- Time of India
Dilli in a day: What to see, eat, and skip
Welcome to Delhi — the city where history naps in the shadow of modern chaos, where every traffic signal is a polite suggestion, and where your day can start with butter-laden parathas and end with rooftop cocktails next to a 13th-century ruin. Ready to spin through the madness and magic in just one day? Buckle up — it's going to be a chatpata ride. 8:00 AM: Breakfast Start strong in Old Delhi with breakfast. Hit Paranthe Wali Gali , where your paratha options range from potato to banana (yes, banana). Dip it in spicy pickles and have with a lassi that would have a lasting impression on you. 10:00 AM: Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk After breakfast, climb up the minaret at Jama Masjid for panoramic views — and maybe a leg cramp. Then dive headfirst into Chandni Chowk's chaos. Warning: you may emerge with antique door knobs, 14 types of spice you don't recognise, and an existential question about how anyone crosses the road here. 12:30 PM: Lunch You've earned yourself a royal meal. Head to Karim's or Al Jawahar for melt-in-the-mouth kebabs, mutton korma, and roomali rotis. Vegetarian? Don't worry — the paneer here is sinful enough to need spiritual cleansing. 2:00 PM: Get a break Slip into the cool galleries of the National Museum or soak in the serenity of Humayun's Tomb . You'll be awed by centuries-old artifacts and question why your history textbook made it all sound so boring. Read more: 8 mind-blowing marine species found only in the Philippines 4:00 PM: Connaught Place Head to Connaught Place for some old-world colonial charm. Have chai at Wenger's or a cold coffee at United Coffee House and watch Delhiites hustle, pose, and dodge pigeons like pros. 6:00 PM: Sunset at Qutub Minar or Lodhi Garden As the sun dips low, wander through Lodhi Garden , where domes, tombs, and joggers coexist in quiet harmony. Or, climb up (mentally) to the towering Qutub Minar and imagine the Mughal Instagram captions of the past. 8:00 PM: Dine as you like Dinner? Depends on your mood. Want swanky? Try Indian Accent . Want rooftop views and street food with flair? Social , Bo Tai , or a cool bar in Hauz Khas Village will do the trick. 10:00 PM: End with style Stumble into Khari Baoli if you're still curious — the spice market's quieter at night, and the smell alone will keep you buzzed. Or find a rooftop bar and toast to surviving the glorious sensory overload that is Delhi. Read more: Inside Rajasthan's Bera: A village where leopards and locals coexist! Delhi doesn't chill — but for one wild day, you won't want it any other way. Just a heads-up — while we've listed all the highlights, it's unlikely you'll be able to tick off everything in a single day, thanks to Delhi's legendary traffic and blazing heat. So, plan smart: pick your must-visits beforehand to avoid mid-day meltdowns and spontaneous existential crises in the middle of a roundabout.
