We trace the evolution of Delhi’s chic Khan Market, a chaotic neighbourhood that also happens to be one of the most expensive high streets in the world
Freedom came to India at a huge cost. After the country’s partition and the birth of Pakistan in 1947, people became refugees in their own country, thanks to the newly-formed border. Displaced Sikhs and Hindus from the north-west frontier fled to India while scores of Indian Muslims headed to Pakistan. The story of Khan Market, the now posh retail street that caters to expats and local elite alike, is one that’s tied to this tale.
Most of those who fled Pakistan sought refuge in Delhi, which at the time experienced a population explosion. The inflow of migrants posed a challenge for newly independent India and its government. To resolve this immigration crisis, neighbourhoods were created to provide the city’s new residents a safe environment to give them a fresh start. Most of these quarters today form the affluent southern part of the Indian capital, and have significantly contributed in shaping its landscape and commercial trajectory. Khan Market, established in 1951, was one such neighbourhood allocated as seed land to the immigrants.
Nostalgia galore
During its nascent years, before it was given its present-day high-street makeover, the marketplace was abuzz with bookstores, local designers and shops selling groceries. Back then, people went there more for the books than stilettoes. Little remains of that Khan Market, except that even back then it was south-Delhi’s prime retail haven, like it is now. You went to Khan Market not just to indulge in a bout of shopping, but also to be seen. You’d have easily bumped into famous writers and intellectuals at one of the bookshops. BahriSons Booksellers, one such iconic bookstore, has stood the test of time, pretty much like Khan Market.
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der July 2017-Ausgabe von BlackBook — India's Luxury Insider.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der July 2017-Ausgabe von BlackBook — India's Luxury Insider.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden
No Stone Unturned
BlackBook travels to Surat to explore the step by step journey of a Forevermark-approved diamond—and what the grading giant has planned for its india expansion
The Revival Of Retail
There is nothing quite like browsing through a physical store full of curiosities and beautiful things. Is that why we are seeing a resurgence of luxury boutiques?
Bringing Their A-game
Inside Mumbai’s snazzy co-working and leisure club, The A, a members-only space with a built-in prohibition-style speakeasy and a virtual reality zone
Will India Sail Through?
The long neglected coast of India has received a new lease of life from the Indian government which is developing its ports to attract cruise tourism to the country.
The Ultimate Address In Luxury
Stellar views and large living spaces are real estate gold when it comes to residential properties in a space-starved metropolis like Mumbai. Vivarea by K Raheja Corp, with its world-class amenities, offers the best of both.
The Design Doyenne
Gayatri Ruia has created a niche for herself in the world of luxury through her diverse pursuits in art, interiors and fashion.
The golden boy
Siddharth Kasliwal, who represents a vibrant new face of luxury, upholds his family legacy even as he forges ahead with his own vision of opulence.
Jaipur Hospitality's New Finesse
For decades, royal abodes have been Jaipur’s most esteemed getaways. Now, stylish havelis, impeccable boltholes and standout restaurants dot the landscape.
The Rajputana Thoroughbred
Motorcycle enthusiasts are racing to Jaipur for bespoke bikes with an Indian ethos.
Design Story
Good Earth tells tales of enchanted India, with a contemporary lens. BlackBook speaks to CEO Simran Lal about luxury, her inspiration and upcoming wellness offerings.