Dariba Kalan

Dariba Kalan (Hindi: दरीबा कलान, English: Street of the Incomparable Pearl), is a 17th-century street in Chandni Chowk area of Old Delhi or Shahjahanbad, and Asia's largest jewellery market.[1][2] It lies within the walled city of Delhi, and connects the Chandni Chowk area with Jama Masjid.[3]

History

It derives its name from the Persian Dur-e be-baha, which translates as unparalleled pearl,[2] while suffix Kalan means big. There was also a smaller street near by, known as Dariba Khurd or Chhota Dariba, both mean small, now it is known as Kinari Bazaar.[3] This is in reference to its history as a popular market for precious stones and gold and silver jewelry, especially under the reign of the 17th-century Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. The street witnessed the bloody massacre of Delhi in March 1739, ordered by the Persian invader Nadir Shah, when hundreds of innocent civilians and soldiers were killed and the gold shops were looted.

Overview

Today, most of the shops in Dariba Kalan trade in silver, gold, kundan, polki and diamond jewellery, besides costume jewellery.[1] Some also deal in authentic itar, a special variety of perfume and attar.[1] These stores claim to date back to the early 19th century. Also near by is Kinari Bazaar, Gali Kazanchi, and Gali Paranthe Wali, also at both ends of the street are famous jalebi shops.[3][4]

In popular culture

Dariba Kalan is mentioned in the popular song Kajra Re from the hit Hindi film Bunty aur Babli (2005)

See also

References

  1. 1 2 3 "Dariba Kalan, Kohinoor of Delhi". Decan Herald. July 10, 2012. Retrieved May 23, 2013.
  2. 1 2 Nabanita Dutt (2010). To North India With Love: A Travel Guide for the Connoisseur: To Asia With Love. ThingsAsian Press. p. 115. ISBN 1934159077.
  3. 1 2 3 Danish Shafi (Oct 21, 2007). "Big Bazaar". Indian Express. Retrieved May 23, 2013.
  4. ↑ "True to its name". Business Standard. October 31, 2010. Retrieved May 23, 2013.


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