Ramzan lights up Old Delhi streets
As the holy month of Ramzan begins, streets of Delhi’s Walled City come alive with an intoxicating blend of sights, sounds and aromas, offering a unique cultural experience to all who pass by. The fast-paced energy of bustling markets is matched only by the warmth and camaraderie of families and communities gathering to break their fast at Iftar.
Ramzan, observed by Muslims worldwide, is a time for reflection, devotion and charity. During this sacred month, worshippers fast from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food and water. As evening falls and the call to prayer (Maghrib Azaan) echoes through the city, the streets of Old Delhi, especially around Jama Masjid, become a hub for people seeking delicious traditional Iftar items.
Dates, fruits, sweets and other delicacies flow in abundance as shops and stalls hum with activity, catering to the high demand for these cherished foods that make the evening meal a joyous occasion.
One of the highlights of the Ramzan experience in Delhi is the local food walks organised in Old Delhi. These walks invite people to explore the vibrant atmosphere and witness the joyous celebrations of the season. The surge in demand for Iftar items supports local economies, with vendors in the area seeing a significant uptick in sales during this time of the year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt wishes to the people of India on the start of Ramzan, emphasising the values of peace, compassion and service that the holy month embodies.
“As the blessed month of Ramzan begins, may it bring peace and harmony in our society. This sacred month epitomises reflection, gratitude and devotion, reminding us of the values of compassion, kindness and service. Ramzan Mubarak!” the PM said in his message.
The spiritual experience during Ramzan is also marked by the beauty of Jama Masjid, one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks. On Sunday evening, the mosque lit up for the first Taraweeh prayer of the month, a sight that added to the celebratory mood.
For many like Faizan, a Kashmiri shopkeeper, this is a time-honoured tradition. “I break my fast inside Jama Masjid. The masjid committee distributes dates and sharbat among those breaking their fast,” said Faizan, recalling his decade-long participation in this ritual.
Ahmad, who runs a popular sharbat stall near Gate No. 2, elaborates on the seasonal rush, noting that Rooh Afza remains a top choice for those looking to quench their thirst after a long day of fasting. However, homemade variants of the drink made with basil seeds, kewra, sandalwood and fruit extracts are also in high demand.
“On regular days, I sell around 400 glasses of sharbat. During Ramzan, sales surge to nearly 1,000 glasses per day,” Ahmad said.
The atmosphere around Jama Masjid is filled with energy as families gather, setting out spreads of food and juices while waiting for the signal to break their fast. Children run about joyfully, women prepare fruits and the sound of laughter fills the air. As the Maghrib Azaan sounds, the streets come alive with the delicious scent of sizzling kebabs, slow-cooked nihari and sweet treats like phirni and shahi tukda, uniting people from all walks of life.
The spirit of Ramzan — unity, gratitude and generosity — shines through as families, friends and even strangers gather around steaming platters, sharing food and making memories together.
While the streets bustle with life, the Delhi Police have heightened security at key locations, including Tikri Border, to ensure peaceful celebration of the holy month.
In a city that thrives on its rich cultural tapestry, Ramzan offers a time for reflection, connection and, above all, a deep sense of community, as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate the sacred month of fasting and feasting.
