Cultural Events in Delhi: Exploring the Cultural Hubs That Keep India's Capital Alive

Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia is widely regarded as one of the greatest flutists in Indian classical music, celebrated for his mastery over the bansuri (bamboo flute). Born on July 1, 1938, in Allahabad, Chaurasia’s journey to musical greatness was far from conventional. His father, a wrestler, had hoped Hariprasad would follow in his footsteps, but fate had other plans. Despite early resistance, his dedication to music and his natural talent would eventually make him an international icon of Indian classical music, respected for his groundbreaking contributions to the world of Hindustani music.

Delhi is often introduced as India's capital, but that description barely scratches the surface. Beyond government buildings, political conversations, and traffic-filled roads lies a city that celebrates art, music, literature, theatre, crafts, food, and traditions almost every single day.

The beauty of cultural events in Delhi isn't limited to large festivals or famous performances. Sometimes culture reveals itself through an impromptu classical recital inside an old haveli, a pottery workshop tucked inside a quiet neighborhood, a weekend handicraft bazaar, or an evening poetry session at an independent bookstore.

As someone who enjoys wandering through cities with a camera instead of a checklist, Delhi has always surprised me. Every visit uncovers another layer. One morning may begin photographing Mughal architecture glowing under soft winter light, while the evening ends watching Kathak dancers perform beneath ancient arches.

Unlike cities where culture exists inside museums, Delhi's culture spills onto streets, gardens, university campuses, heritage buildings, community centres, and public squares.

This guide explores Delhi's most vibrant cultural hubs while helping travelers experience the city beyond monuments and shopping malls.

It was a hot evening, though a thunderstorm was predicted. However, we had a very interesting event to go to and we wouldn't miss it for anything, not even the prospect of driving from Noida to Delhi on a Friday Evening. Rachana Yadav, the renowned Kathak Dancer, was going to perform solo at the India International Center. After two weeks of staying at home, this promised to be the perfect opportunity to take our minds off things and spend some meditative moments witnessing art.

Why Visit Delhi for Cultural Events?

Delhi is perhaps one of the few Indian cities where centuries coexist effortlessly.

Within a single day, you can:

  • Attend a classical music concert.
  • Watch contemporary theatre.
  • Explore tribal art exhibitions.
  • Visit an international book launch.
  • Experience Sufi music.
  • Taste regional cuisines from across India.
  • Photograph centuries-old architecture.
  • Meet artists creating handcrafted masterpieces.

Its cultural diversity comes from centuries of migration. Every ruler, trader, artist, scholar, refugee, and craftsman has left behind traditions that continue to evolve.

Rather than preserving culture inside glass showcases, Delhi keeps reinventing it.

The Festival of Russian Culture was celebrated in different cities of India and we could also attend one of the evening at Kamani Auditorium in Delhi. It was a musical show call 'The State Ensemble of Cossack Song "Krinitsa"'. We thoroughly enjoyed the show and have also added a few videos in this blogpost apart from these colourful photographs.

Historical and Cultural Significance of Delhi

Delhi has served as the capital of multiple empires for nearly a thousand years.

The city witnessed:

  • Rajput kingdoms
  • Delhi Sultanate
  • Mughal Empire
  • British Raj
  • Independent India

Every era introduced new architectural styles, languages, cuisines, music traditions, textiles, literature, and artistic influences.

Persian aesthetics merged with Indian craftsmanship.

Punjabi refugee culture reshaped post-independence Delhi.

Today, artists from every Indian state contribute to Delhi's ever-changing cultural landscape.

This continuous evolution makes Delhi one of South Asia's most exciting cultural destinations.

On 23 September 2011, world changed forever for the fans of "Badshah-e-Ghazal" Jagjit Singh. The Maestro suffered a cerebral hemorrhage which would claim his life two weeks later. Desperate prays poured in from all over the world while he was in coma. No one was willing to let go of Jagjit Singh just yet. He still had years of music in him, and his voice was becoming more soulful with each passing year. And the man was much more than a musician, he had a rare connect with his team and his fans. His ability to gauge and transform the mood of his audience was legendary. His concerts were almost always completely booked with hopefuls still lining up outside the venues waiting to grab any unclaimed tickets. He was more than a celebrity. He was a "Yug Purush".

My Experience Discovering Cultural Events in Delhi

Some of my most memorable Delhi photographs were never planned.

One winter afternoon, I entered an art exhibition simply because classical flute music drifted through an open doorway. Inside, young artists discussed miniature paintings while visitors quietly appreciated canvases inspired by Old Delhi.

Another evening at India Habitat Centre, I arrived early for a photography exhibition but stayed much longer after discovering an outdoor theatre performance.

The audience ranged from students to retired couples, diplomats to photographers carrying heavy camera bags.

Nobody seemed in a hurry.

That relaxed pace is something I appreciate about Delhi's cultural spaces. They encourage lingering.

Instead of rushing between tourist attractions, you begin slowing down, observing conversations, watching painters work, or simply enjoying changing light across historic buildings.

Those unplanned moments often become the strongest travel memories.

Seeking Rumi || An event of Sufi POetry, Music, and DanceVibha has been reading Rumi lately and she has even been making me read a few verses of the saint. I should admit that I have no relationship whatsoever with poetry. I have never read poetry. And when it comes to Sufi poetry, I only know the poetry that is used in bollywood sufi songs. And I never really paid attention to the lyrics. But a couple of verses by Rumi really rang a bell. So when Vibha told me about the event "Seeking Rumi - Celebrating Soulful Poetry", I was interested. The event was to be held at Akshara Theatre and was being organized by POetry Couture and PACH.We reached there half-an-hour late and were right on time because the event started within 5 minutes of us taking our seats. The hall was already full, but people still kept pouring in. Soon even the stairs were occupied. The event started with a flute performance by Natalie Ramirez. She started with a verse by Rumi and then mesmerized the audience with her stunning performance. It was the perfect start.Next was a discussion on the relevance of Rumi and Sufism between Danish Iqbal, Akhtarul Wasey, and H.S. Shiva Prakash. The discussion was expertly moderated by Raghavendra Madhu. Panel discussions become fun if the panelists know what they are talking about. And these panelists were very knowledgeable indeed.Next, Shreya Kumar took over with her subtle, smooth interpretation of the poem "Windows to Walls" by Raghavendra Madhu. The poem was narrated by Nikhil Mawkin. Shreya Kumar deserves a special mention because there was a serious technical glitch while she was performing and she managed it really well.The last event we witnessed was the musical performance by the band Playback. Abhishek Shankar was wonderful at vocals and the guitarist and the percussionist were pretty great too. But Kartikeya Vashisht on the flute was an instant hit with the audience.We had to leave after this section, but yet to come were the address by Dolly Singh who was to introduce Delhi Poetry Festival. The event was to end with poets reciting their poetry around Sufism and love. Unfortunately, we couldn't stay till the end. But I will say that the event was worth attending and superbly planned.

Delhi's Cultural Hotspots Worth Exploring

India Habitat Center on Lodhi road in Delhi is a brilliant place which hosts some of the great art shows, photography exhibitions, Art/Literary festivals and lot of interesting events around Art/Culture. I have regularly visiting IHC for last 10 years and it's always refreshing to roam around the campus, see some art shows & have food at 'Eatopia' or 'The all American Diner'. This post shares more about the place, things to do, how to reach and why it's one of the most interesting places in Delhi for Art lovers.Above photograph shows a small part of India Habitat Centre. This is a beautiful piece of architecture. This building has some of the important offices of Delhi. Apart from the beautiful building, it has beautiful landscapes outside. IHC has good number of exhibition halls, auditoriums, open air amphitheater and lawns. Any time you go to IHC, you would find different art shows happening in the campus.Whenever I am in South Delhi and have time, I prefer coming to IHC. Probability is high if it's lunch or dinner time :) . Eatopia is a reasonable place in IHC which offers great food and variety of desserts. There are different counters around seating area. One can get Indian Street food, North Indian delicacies, Thai food, Chinese, Continental and lot more.Last weekend we visited Indian Habitat Center for Poetry Festival Kaafiya and Nishant was accompanying us. We had our lunch at Eatopia and he loved the desserts.Artologue had arranged a brilliant event in the middle of IHC campus. They had spread 25 feet canvas on the floor and everyone was welcome to paint it. Artologue presented 'Art Walle लोग ' and it's on till 31st October. This is a brilliant initiative by a couple who are into Travelling, Art and Media.We also participated in painting this huge canvas. Nishant started by painting flowers, added leaves and finally ensured that all of it is inside a fence. Some of the folks standing there liked the art created by Nishant. I was a little hesitant in trying out anything on this canvas, but Nishant inspired and all of us tried our hands. We could come up with reasonably good art :).Lot of such events keep happening at India Habitat Centre. First Edition of Delhi Photo Festival was also hosted by India Habitat Centre and most of the space was used for exhibiting Photography work by Photographers from different parts of the globe.After spending some time around this huge canvas, we headed towards Open Palm court to see exhibition by one of the friends.It's recommended to check online if something interesting is happening at India Habitat Centre, but you can also go without checking and I am sure you would not be disappointed as an Art lover.Additional tip - If you feel like having ginger tea after roaming around India Habitat Center, go to the back gate where an oldman sells awesome ginger tea.

India Habitat Centre

One of Delhi's finest cultural venues, India Habitat Centre hosts:

  • Art exhibitions
  • Documentary screenings
  • Classical concerts
  • Theatre performances
  • Photography exhibitions
  • Literature discussions

The architecture itself deserves attention.

Natural light enters beautifully through open courtyards, making photography enjoyable throughout the day.

The cafés inside also attract writers, photographers, filmmakers, and students.

The Mahindra Kabira Festival is a music and arts festival held annually in the city of Varanasi, India. The festival is named after the famous Indian saint and poet Kabir, who lived in the 15th century and is known for his poetry that transcends religion and caste.

India International Centre

This elegant institution quietly hosts some of Delhi's most intellectually stimulating cultural programs.

Expect:

  • Film festivals
  • Author interactions
  • Classical performances
  • Historical lectures
  • Art displays

Unlike crowded tourist destinations, the atmosphere here remains peaceful.

Yesterday, after a long hiatus, TravellingCamera headed out to watch a play. This one was titled "Patte Khul Gaye", produced by Felicity Theatre Group, written and directed by Mr. Rakesh Bedi. It was a foggy winter morning, and we had plans to visit Wildlife photography exhibition by Mr. Akash Das, so we had to get out of the house early-ish. And believe me, it was quite an effort to get out of the quilts and head out on a Saturday morning, when we could as easily have slept the day off.

Kamani Auditorium

For decades, Kamani Auditorium has been one of Delhi's premier venues for performing arts.

Many renowned dancers, musicians, theatre groups, and orchestras regularly perform here.

If your visit coincides with a classical dance festival, don't miss it.

With a commitment to making theatre accessible to all, Bharat Rang Mahotsav often extends its reach beyond conventional auditoriums. Street plays, open-air performances, and community engagements take the magic of theatre to diverse audiences, breaking down barriers and creating a democratic space for artistic expression.

Triveni Kala Sangam

This cultural institution combines:

  • Art galleries
  • Dance schools
  • Music classes
  • Workshops
  • Open-air performances

Walking through Triveni Kala Sangam feels less like visiting an attraction and more like entering an active creative community.

Young painters sketch beside experienced artists while musicians rehearse nearby.

In the kaleidoscope of India's rich cultural tapestry, the Bharat Rang Mahotsav emerges as a vibrant thread, weaving together the diverse hues of theatrical brilliance. This annual theatre festival, celebrated with fervor and passion, has become a beacon for artists, enthusiasts, and cultural connoisseurs alike. Join us on a journey through the enchanting world of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, where the stage comes alive with the magic of Indian theatre.

National School of Drama

Even if you're not attending a performance, the energy around NSD is infectious.

Student productions often showcase experimental theatre that reflects contemporary India while respecting traditional storytelling.

Every year, Himachal Tourism brings the vibrant culture, traditions, and flavors of the mountains to the heart of Delhi with Him Utsav, a grand cultural festival held at Dilli Haat. This much-anticipated event is a showcase of Himachal Pradesh’s rich heritage, offering visitors a chance to experience the state’s colorful traditions, delicious cuisine, and exquisite handicrafts without leaving the city.

Dilli Haat

One of Delhi's liveliest cultural marketplaces, Dilli Haat brings artisans from different Indian states under one roof.

Beyond shopping, visitors experience:

  • Folk music
  • Regional dance
  • Handicraft demonstrations
  • Traditional cooking

Unlike conventional markets, every visit feels different because artisans rotate regularly.

Dilli Haat, one of Delhi’s most vibrant cultural and artisanal hubs, is currently hosting an extraordinary event—Enchanting Ladakh. This unique exhibition, organized by the Department of Industries and Commerce, UT Ladakh, is bringing the soul of the Himalayan region to the capital city. Running from January 16 to January 31, 2025, the event promises a delightful blend of art, culture, cuisine, and tradition. If you’ve always wanted to experience the charm of Ladakh without taking a trip to the mountains, this event is a golden opportunity.

Crafts Museum

Often overlooked by first-time tourists, the Crafts Museum offers one of Delhi's richest cultural experiences.

Traditional homes from different regions recreate village life.

Artisans frequently demonstrate weaving, pottery, wood carving, and textile printing.

For photographers, this place offers endless textures and authentic human stories.

In case you hear the name "Sunder Nursery" of Delhi and think of a beautiful plant nursery, I don't blame you a bit. But in reality, Sunder Nursery is that and much more. We had been planning to visit the place in a long time and in the current state of things, when the world has only just opened back up a little after a harrowing second wave of the pandemic, visiting a beautiful outdoor location and sitting on the grass with cool breeze blowing, sounds nothing short of a dream. This Sunday, we decided to make this dream a reality.

Sunder Nursery

Although known as a heritage park, Sunder Nursery increasingly hosts:

  • Cultural festivals
  • Music performances
  • Heritage walks
  • Storytelling sessions

Early mornings combine beautiful light with peaceful landscapes.

5. Architecture & Village Setup The National Crafts Museum’s architecture itself is a masterpiece. Designed to resemble a rural Indian village, it features: Thatched huts and mud houses representing different states Intricate wooden doorways and facades showcasing Indian carpentry Hand-painted murals and rangoli patterns inspired by folk art Walking through the museum feels like stepping into a living craft village, making it a unique and immersive experience.

Hidden Gems Beyond the Famous Cultural Venues

Delhi rewards curiosity.

Some lesser-known cultural spaces include:

This weekend, Vibha had few meetings at India Habitat Center and she asked if I want to join her. I was reluctant as it was super hot outside and I didn't have a convincing plan about what to do when she is busy. Since the meetings were at IHC, I thought I will spend time checking out exhibitions or some timepass at Eatopia. I had not visited IHC for last 2.5 years. So I tagged along and the evening turned around great with some ad-hoc things we did and we didn't that hot, as we usually feel while sitting in air-conditioned rooms. This Blog shares about what we did and what anyone can plan even during summer evenings in Delhi.

Lodhi Art District

India's first public art district transforms ordinary walls into enormous murals.

Street photography enthusiasts can spend hours here.

Morning light works wonderfully.

Reaching IHC from our house is super convenient unless Google-maps mess with plans :). We took Noida-GreatNoida expressway and through DND, landed to Baba Banda Singh Bahadur bridge which takes you to Lodhi Colony and then India Habitat Center. The road is usually super smooth, although we faced some difficulties due to unexpected reasons.

Shahpur Jat

Hidden inside narrow lanes are:

  • Independent fashion designers
  • Art studios
  • Cafés
  • Creative workshops

The blend of old village architecture and modern design creates fascinating visual contrasts.

We were able to reach IHC in time. Vibha moved to her meeting place and I walked around the IHC campus and it was super sad state. Eatopia is closed after Pandemic now, but good part is that The All American Diner is operational. Most of the popular exhibition galleries were empty. There was one show going on by Narayan Sinha. Spent some time there and checked another exhibition of Pichwai Paintings by Vibha Singh, which is on till 29th June'22. After that I stepped out to our default add to have tea and Mathri. Whenever we visit IHC, we don't miss this tea-mathi on back side of the IHC. Now I was not motivated to go back to IHC by looking at it's situation and Vibha was busy for another hour. So I thought of walking around and had heard a lot about Lodhi Art District from friend blogger, Sushmita.

Majnu Ka Tilla

Home to Delhi's Tibetan community, this neighborhood introduces visitors to Buddhist culture, monasteries, Tibetan cafés, and peaceful streets rarely explored by mainstream tourists.

Above photograph shows a part of "The Tourist" by Avinash and Kamesh. Inspired by the tourists who visit Lodhi Art District to admire and photograph the street art, Avinash and Kamesh depicted the social media and smartphone revolution in their mural. I loved this part of the wall and this looks like a boy is clicking your photograph.

Nizamuddin Basti

While many visit for the famous shrine, few stay long enough to appreciate:

  • Heritage walks
  • Qawwali evenings
  • Community stories
  • Ancient stepwells
  • Traditional neighborhoods

The atmosphere changes dramatically after sunset.

Holi, the festival of colors, is widely known for its playful splashes of gulal (colored powder), water balloons, and joyous gatherings. However, amidst the loud revelry, there exists a more elegant and cultural celebration of Holi—one that is filled with flowers, classical music, and mesmerizing dance performances. This unique experience can be witnessed at the India Habitat Centre (IHC) in New Delhi, where Holi is celebrated in a refined and artistic way, staying true to its spiritual and cultural essence.

Best Photography Spots Around Delhi's Cultural Hubs

LocationBest TimePhotography Style
Lodhi Art DistrictMorningStreet Art
Sunder NurserySunriseHeritage Landscapes
Dilli HaatEveningPortraits & Crafts
Crafts MuseumAfternoonDocumentary
India Habitat CentreLate AfternoonArchitecture
NizamuddinEveningCultural Photography
Shahpur JatMorningUrban Lifestyle
Old DelhiEarly MorningStreet Photography

The festival is organized by the Mahindra Group in partnership with Teamwork Arts, and is held over a period of three days. In addition to music performances, the festival also includes workshops, discussions, and cultural tours of the city.

Photography Tips for Capturing Delhi's Cultural Spirit

Delhi isn't just about monuments.

Focus on people.

Photograph:

  • Hands weaving textiles.
  • Musicians tuning instruments.
  • Artists painting murals.
  • Children learning classical dance.
  • Elderly craftsmen carving wood.

Golden hour creates beautiful light across sandstone buildings.

Winter mornings often produce soft diffused light ideal for portraits.

Avoid harsh summer afternoons unless photographing interiors.

Always ask permission before taking close portraits.

Many artisans happily share stories once conversations begin.

Those stories often become more memorable than the photographs themselves.

Today BHARAT RANG MAHOTSAV, biggest theatre Festival in Asia, inaugurated in presence of eminent Actress Sharmila Tagore, Hon'ble Minister of Culture with lot of other excellencies from theatre industry. Let's check out this Photo Journey from Inauguration event, which happened at Kamani Auditorium near National School of Drama, Delhi...Two Tagores on main stage during inauguration function of 14th Bharat Rang Mahotsav, which is popularly known as Bharangam :)Sharmila Tagore is the great-grandniece of noted poet Rabindranath Tagore.Anuradha Kapur (Director, National School of Drama) on extreme left, Kumari Selja (Hon'ble Minister of Culture and Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation), Eminent actor Sharmila Tagore, Amal Allana (Chairperson, National School of Drama) , Jawahar Sircar (Secretory, Ministry of Culture)Here Anuradha Kapur presenting Flowers, Shawl and a momento to Guest of honour Sharmila Tagore !!Director, NSD presenting flowers to Sharmila Tagore on Kamani Stage during inauguration of 14th Bharat Rang Mahotsav, 2012 !!!Given the context of the year (2012) long celebrations on the 150th Birth Anniversary of kaviguru Rabindarnath Tagore, Kumari Selja was pleased to know about the fact that festival has also focus on Tagore... Time for formal inauguration of Bharat rang Mahotsav !All these folks enlightening each corner of the lamp to signify formal inauguration of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, which is one of the main theatre festival organized by National School Drama. It's an international theatre festival where artists form various parts of the world participate during 15 days in Delhi !!Sorry, but I could not find her name. She was host of the evening during inauguration of 14th Bharat Rang Mahotsav @ Kamani, Delhi, India !!Anuradha Kapur mentions like - 'Equally significant in the recognition that we are fortunate in our multilingual, multicultural circumstance or condition, so that there is no one theatre that best describes our numerous identities, cultures and histories. No one theatre prescribes our indianness. I trust that the scale of the festival will give rise to complex and sometimes vexed, ideas about identity, nationalism, tradition... 'As per Amal Allana - 'At festivals like Bharat Rang Mahotsav, it not only affords an opportunity to showcase the talent of Indian and Foriegn theatre practitioners but perhaps more importantly, creates a knowledgable, passionate and appreciative audience, that will sustain theatre activity in long run' ..At the same time Sharmila focused on challenges of Theatre and how performing in theatre is different from artists who work in telefilms. She also mentioned about her interest in theatre from childhood, although denied that she was never a theatre actor in her career. A wonderful speech with extreme humbleness and audience appreciated her words on stage..Kumari Selja talked about this festival and mentioned about the heights it has achieved in last 13 years and ensured main focus on such events in future as well. She also promised ot provide more infrastructure and funds for better execution of such events in India. She got various clap sessions during her talk on inauguration of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, 2012Here one of the famous theatre director Kirti Jain presenting Thanks note for Kumari Selja, Sharmila Tagore, audience, Theatre artists and all relevant folks who helped in making Bharat Rang Mahotsav a World class festival The focus on Rabindarnath Tagore is an attempt to open up issues and to revisit the enormous and complex corpus of Tagore's work, as it exits in the minds of practitioners todayWith inauguration Anuradha and Kumari Selja seemed to be thinking of next plans about such activities to promote Theatre in India !!! we all wish them good luck for another successful Bharat Rang Mahotsav in 2012 !!!

Local Food Experiences Around Cultural Hotspots

Delhi's cultural exploration naturally becomes a culinary journey.

Near Lodhi Road:

  • Modern Indian cafés
  • Artisan bakeries

Near Dilli Haat:

  • Regional cuisines from every Indian state
  • Northeastern delicacies
  • Kashmiri dishes
  • Rajasthani meals

Near Nizamuddin:

  • Kebabs
  • Biryani
  • Traditional sweets

Near Majnu Ka Tilla:

  • Tibetan momos
  • Thukpa
  • Butter tea

Near Shahpur Jat:

  • Boutique cafés
  • Fusion cuisine

Instead of chasing famous restaurants, try smaller family-run eateries.

Often, conversations become part of the meal.

Today BHARAT RANG MAHOTSAV, biggest theatre Festival in Asia, inaugurated in presence of eminent Actress Sharmila Tagore, Hon'ble Minister of Culture with lot of other excellencies from theatre industry. Let's check out this Photo Journey from Inauguration event, which happened at Kamani Auditorium near National School of Drama, Delhi...Two Tagores on main stage during inauguration function of 14th Bharat Rang Mahotsav, which is popularly known as Bharangam :)Sharmila Tagore is the great-grandniece of noted poet Rabindranath Tagore.Anuradha Kapur (Director, National School of Drama) on extreme left, Kumari Selja (Hon'ble Minister of Culture and Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation), Eminent actor Sharmila Tagore, Amal Allana (Chairperson, National School of Drama) , Jawahar Sircar (Secretory, Ministry of Culture)Here Anuradha Kapur presenting Flowers, Shawl and a momento to Guest of honour Sharmila Tagore !!Director, NSD presenting flowers to Sharmila Tagore on Kamani Stage during inauguration of 14th Bharat Rang Mahotsav, 2012 !!!Given the context of the year (2012) long celebrations on the 150th Birth Anniversary of kaviguru Rabindarnath Tagore, Kumari Selja was pleased to know about the fact that festival has also focus on Tagore... Time for formal inauguration of Bharat rang Mahotsav !All these folks enlightening each corner of the lamp to signify formal inauguration of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, which is one of the main theatre festival organized by National School Drama. It's an international theatre festival where artists form various parts of the world participate during 15 days in Delhi !!Sorry, but I could not find her name. She was host of the evening during inauguration of 14th Bharat Rang Mahotsav @ Kamani, Delhi, India !!Anuradha Kapur mentions like - 'Equally significant in the recognition that we are fortunate in our multilingual, multicultural circumstance or condition, so that there is no one theatre that best describes our numerous identities, cultures and histories. No one theatre prescribes our indianness. I trust that the scale of the festival will give rise to complex and sometimes vexed, ideas about identity, nationalism, tradition... 'As per Amal Allana - 'At festivals like Bharat Rang Mahotsav, it not only affords an opportunity to showcase the talent of Indian and Foriegn theatre practitioners but perhaps more importantly, creates a knowledgable, passionate and appreciative audience, that will sustain theatre activity in long run' ..At the same time Sharmila focused on challenges of Theatre and how performing in theatre is different from artists who work in telefilms. She also mentioned about her interest in theatre from childhood, although denied that she was never a theatre actor in her career. A wonderful speech with extreme humbleness and audience appreciated her words on stage..Kumari Selja talked about this festival and mentioned about the heights it has achieved in last 13 years and ensured main focus on such events in future as well. She also promised ot provide more infrastructure and funds for better execution of such events in India. She got various clap sessions during her talk on inauguration of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, 2012Here one of the famous theatre director Kirti Jain presenting Thanks note for Kumari Selja, Sharmila Tagore, audience, Theatre artists and all relevant folks who helped in making Bharat Rang Mahotsav a World class festival The focus on Rabindarnath Tagore is an attempt to open up issues and to revisit the enormous and complex corpus of Tagore's work, as it exits in the minds of practitioners todayWith inauguration Anuradha and Kumari Selja seemed to be thinking of next plans about such activities to promote Theatre in India !!! we all wish them good luck for another successful Bharat Rang Mahotsav in 2012 !!!

Conversations That Reveal Delhi's Soul

One of the most rewarding aspects of exploring Delhi's cultural venues is meeting people.

At Dilli Haat, an artisan from Odisha patiently explained how every handcrafted palm-leaf painting required weeks of careful work.

Inside the Crafts Museum, a potter spoke about how fewer young people now learn traditional techniques.

At an independent gallery, a young artist described how Delhi's rapidly changing skyline influences contemporary paintings.

These encounters remind us that culture isn't preserved by buildings.

It's preserved by people.

To be honest, we stumbled upon Sri Sameer Rao ji's flute recital at India International Center quite by accident. This was a part of IIC's Double-Bill Music and Dance Recitals series and we had come into watch Rachana Yadav's Kathak Recital of "Nirantar". What we were not aware of was that it was to be preceded by Sri Rao's recital.

Best Time to Experience Cultural Events in Delhi

The ideal months are:

SeasonExperience
OctoberFestival season begins
NovemberHeritage walks, concerts
DecemberPleasant weather, major festivals
JanuaryLiterature festivals, performances
FebruaryArt fairs and outdoor events
MarchSpring cultural celebrations

Winter is undoubtedly the best season.

Outdoor performances become enjoyable, photography conditions improve, and walking long distances becomes comfortable.

Padma Shri Shovana Narayan is an iconic Kathak dancer whose contributions to Indian classical dance have earned her international acclaim. Born in 1950, she began her journey in dance at a young age and trained under the renowned Guru Birju Maharaj of the Lucknow Gharana. Known for her expressive storytelling and precision, Shovana blends tradition with innovative themes, often addressing contemporary social issues through her choreography.

How to Reach Delhi's Cultural Hubs

Delhi's metro makes cultural exploration remarkably easy.

Most major venues lie close to Metro stations.

Options include:

  • Delhi Metro
  • App-based taxis
  • Auto-rickshaws
  • Cycle rickshaws in heritage areas

Walking remains the best way to discover hidden galleries, cafés, murals, and local interactions.

The world of classical dance is rich with tradition, storytelling, and cultural heritage. One of its most enchanting forms is the Doll Dance, a mesmerizing blend of grace, precision, and expressive storytelling. Recently, I had the pleasure of witnessing a captivating Doll Dance performance by the renowned artist K P Satish Babu. Held in an intimate theater setting, this performance was a testament to the timeless beauty and intricate artistry of this unique dance form. In this blog post, I will share my personal experience and insights into K P Satish Babu's extraordinary performance, the history and significance of Doll Dance, and the mesmerizing artistry that left the audience spellbound.

Where to Stay

Depending on your interests:

AreaSuitable For
Connaught PlaceCentral access
Lodhi RoadArt lovers
Hauz KhasCafés and nightlife
Karol BaghBudget travelers
PaharganjBackpackers
South DelhiLonger stays

Staying near a Metro station significantly reduces travel time.

The first thing that strikes you during a Kathakali Dance performance is not the music. Not the elaborate costumes either. It is the eyes. Under warm stage lights in Kochi, a performer slowly turns his face toward the audience. His eyes widen dramatically, then narrow with impossible precision. Every movement feels amplified. Every glance carries meaning. Even before the drums begin, the story has already started.

Budget Tips

  • Many galleries offer free entry.
  • Public cultural festivals often have no ticket charges.
  • Use Delhi Metro instead of taxis.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle.
  • Visit museums on discounted days when available.
  • Combine nearby attractions into one walking route.

Delhi can be surprisingly affordable for cultural travelers.

Craftsmanship Extravaganza: Handmade Treasures One of the highlights of Aadi Mahotsav is the sprawling craft bazaar that transforms the venue into a treasure trove of handmade artifacts. From intricately woven textiles to exquisitely crafted jewelry, the stalls represent the diverse craftsmanship of tribal artisans from across the country. Visitors have the opportunity to explore and purchase unique, handcrafted items, each narrating a story of tradition and skill.

Suggested 3-Day Cultural Itinerary

Day 1

  • India Habitat Centre
  • Lodhi Art District
  • Sunder Nursery
  • Evening cultural performance

Day 2

  • Crafts Museum
  • National Gallery
  • Dilli Haat
  • Regional dinner

Day 3

  • Nizamuddin Heritage Walk
  • Majnu Ka Tilla
  • Shahpur Jat
  • Theatre performance at NSD or Kamani Auditorium

Delhi, a melting pot of cultures, becomes a vibrant canvas during the Aadi Mahotsav, a celebration that brings together the diverse tapestry of India's indigenous communities. In this blog, we delve into the rich cultural extravaganza that is Aadi Mahotsav, a festival that pulsates with the heartbeat of tradition, art, and heritage.

Responsible Travel Tips

  • Respect religious customs.
  • Ask before photographing people.
  • Support local artisans by purchasing directly.
  • Avoid bargaining excessively for handmade crafts.
  • Carry reusable bags.
  • Dispose of waste responsibly.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious venues.

Responsible tourism helps preserve the very culture visitors come to experience.

Recently when we were in Benaras for Mahindra Kabira Festival, we first time listened to The Tapi Project band and through this blogpost we will share The Tapi Project, how it was connected Kabir or not and what kind of music they do, along with some interesting findings about this band.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Planning only monument visits while ignoring cultural venues.
  • Visiting during peak afternoon heat in summer.
  • Missing evening performances.
  • Spending all time inside malls.
  • Photographing without permission.
  • Ignoring smaller art galleries.
  • Skipping conversations with local artists and craftspeople.
  • Visiting only on weekends if you dislike crowds.

In the grand tapestry of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, the stage came alive with the vibrant hues of Assamese culture through Bhaben Barbayan's theatrical masterpiece, "Rukmini Haran." This blog delves into the intricacies of the play, exploring how Barbayan's vision, coupled with the skilled performances of the cast, brought the timeless tale of Rukmini to the forefront of India's premier theatre festival.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best places for cultural events in Delhi?

India Habitat Centre, India International Centre, Kamani Auditorium, Triveni Kala Sangam, Dilli Haat, the Crafts Museum, and Sunder Nursery are among the city's most active cultural hubs.

When is the best time to experience cultural events in Delhi?

The period from October to March offers pleasant weather and a packed calendar of festivals, performances, exhibitions, and heritage walks.

Are cultural events in Delhi expensive?

Not necessarily. Many exhibitions, gallery openings, lectures, and public performances are free, while ticketed events are often reasonably priced.

Which cultural hotspot is best for photography?

Lodhi Art District is ideal for street art, Sunder Nursery for heritage landscapes, the Crafts Museum for documentary photography, and Dilli Haat for vibrant portraits and artisan-focused images.

Can solo travelers explore Delhi's cultural hubs safely?

Yes. Most established cultural venues are well-maintained and attract families, students, artists, and international visitors. Use the Delhi Metro or trusted cab services, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid isolated areas late at night.

How can I find upcoming cultural events in Delhi?

Check the event calendars of major cultural institutions, local art galleries, theatre groups, and community spaces before your trip. Many venues publish weekly schedules online, making it easy to plan around exhibitions, concerts, and festivals.

Above photograph is from play RED HOT, which was showcased by Saurabh Shukla's team during 14th Bharat Rang Mahotsav...Another play showcased during Bharangam 2012 - Vyomkesh Bakshi @ Kamani Auditorium, Delhi, India A scene of famous play by NSD Repertory - Comrade Kumbhakarna - Ipshika, Dwarika and Anoop..'Little big Tragedies' - A play by NSD Repertory Company during Summer Theatre Festival 201Sunil in 'Checkhov Ki Duniya' play by popular theater director Ranjit Kapoor..'Chekhov Ki Duniya' was a play based on various stories...One of the brilliant plays by National School Of Drama Repretory Company... He is Naveen, one of the main characters in the play...Another Photograph of Comrade Kumbhakarna play ... Ajit sitting on Punj Prakash... Both of them are wonderful actors of NSD Repertory Company...Aadamzad play at National School of Drama, Delhi, India... Again with brilliant actors of NSD Repertory Company...A colorful dance scene from NSD Summer Theatre festival 2011 - Banbhatt ki AtmakathaHe is one of the most intersting characters in 'Ram Naam Satya Hai' play, which was showcased during Summer Theatre Festival of Nationa School of Drama, Delhi, IndiThis Photograph is from 'Ram Nam Satya Hai', which was showcased during NSD Summer Theatre Festival 2011..Here is photograph from one of the latest production of NDS Repertory Company - 'Old Town'

Final Thoughts

Delhi's greatest cultural treasure isn't confined to its UNESCO monuments or grand museums—it's found in the everyday rhythm of the city. A sitar recital echoing through an intimate auditorium, an artisan patiently demonstrating a centuries-old craft, a mural that transforms an ordinary street, or a conversation over chai with an artist can reveal as much about Delhi as any famous landmark.

For photographers, every cultural hub presents a fresh canvas of color, light, architecture, and human expression. For curious travelers, these spaces offer opportunities to connect with the city's living traditions rather than simply observe them. And for anyone seeking to understand India's remarkable diversity, exploring cultural events in Delhi is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the capital.

Slow down, wander beyond the obvious, and leave room for serendipity. In Delhi, the most memorable cultural experiences are often the ones you never planned for.

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Looking for the best Delhi tours, hidden gems in Delhi, authentic food experiences, cultural walks, heritage sites, photography tours, and unforgettable local experiences? Welcome to Travellingcamera with Travellingcamera Host.

Delhi Beyond the Guidebooks: Discover the Soul of India's Capital with 'Travellingcamera Host'


I have seen Vegetarians panic when they have to travel to USA for the first time, but things are not as bad as it seems. It varies from state to state in USA, but we will try to share some common tips around what to avoid or what to chose. It's important to know the list of things to avoid, as definition of vegetarian is also different there and you may want to know those definitions as well.



Rising majestically along the banks of the Yamuna River, the Red Fort is more than just a monument—it is a living symbol of India’s layered history, cultural richness, and enduring identity. Known locally as Lal Qila, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a silent witness to centuries of imperial grandeur, colonial upheaval, and the birth of a nation.




Architectural Brilliance of Humayun’s Tomb 1. Persian & Mughal Influence Humayun’s Tomb is a perfect blend of Persian, Turkish, and Indian architecture. The design was heavily influenced by Persian gardens and domed structures, while incorporating Indian red sandstone and marble.


Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is a vibrant blend of history and modernity, where ancient monuments coexist with bustling markets and contemporary skyscrapers. This sprawling metropolis, divided into Old Delhi and New Delhi, offers a rich tapestry of experiences for residents and visitors alike. Old Delhi, with its narrow lanes and historical landmarks like the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Chandni Chowk, exudes a timeless charm, showcasing the city's Mughal past. In contrast, New Delhi, designed by British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, is characterized by its wide boulevards, grand government buildings, and lush green spaces such as India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan. Delhi's cultural diversity is reflected in its myriad festivals, diverse culinary scene, and vibrant arts and music culture. As the political and administrative heart of India, Delhi also hosts significant events and houses important institutions. This dynamic city, with its blend of the old and the new, continues to evolve, making it a captivating destination for anyone looking to explore the essence of India.

Nestled within the grandeur of the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi lies a hidden gem known as Amrit Udyan, a serene and meticulously landscaped garden that offers respite from the bustling capital. This verdant oasis, situated within the sprawling grounds of the Indian President's House, provides a tranquil escape for those fortunate enough to explore its lush expanse.




Nestled in the heart of South Delhi, Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park, and the enchanting Hauz Khas Lake collectively form a haven that seamlessly blends history, nature, and contemporary charm. Join us on a journey through this multifaceted destination, where ancient heritage coexists with vibrant urban life, creating an unparalleled experience for locals and visitors alike.


In case you hear the name "Sunder Nursery" of Delhi and think of a beautiful plant nursery, I don't blame you a bit. But in reality, Sunder Nursery is that and much more. We had been planning to visit the place in a long time and in the current state of things, when the world has only just opened back up a little after a harrowing second wave of the pandemic, visiting a beautiful outdoor location and sitting on the grass with cool breeze blowing, sounds nothing short of a dream. This Sunday, we decided to make this dream a reality.


Most likely you have heard about famous Paranthe Wali Gali in Old Delhi, but you may not know all the realities of this street. Through this post, we will share some realities which may change your perception of the place. Idea is not to discourage or encourage anyone to visit this place for Paranthas but to ensure you make an informed decision on the basis of details shared in this blogpost.


Tea, cold-drinks, chips and some light snacks are offered by small vendors inside the garden. It's good to see dustbins installed at reachable places, which are quite helpful in keeping the place clean. Many families come to Lodhi Garden to celebrate weekend with their kids & family members. It's always really nice to see a different type of environment in the lawns of Lodhi Garden.


Delhi is extremely rich in terms of heritage and there are 3 UNESCO sites in the capital city of India. Apart from Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Humayun's tomb there are lot of other monuments to visit & explore in Delhi. Safdarjung is very special amongst them because of various reasons like it's architecture, well maintained gardens around it, it's location and a lot more which we will share through this blogpost. We will also discuss about how to reach Safdarjung Tomb from various parts of Delhi by using various transportation systems and entry ticket fees, timings etc. But more than that, we bring you some interesting secrets about Safdarjung Tomb and places around it.


Recently some of my friends had permissions to visit various monuments in Delhi to shoot Lunar Eclipse on 10th Dec, 2011. I also joined them, although all the hard-work for planning these photo-shoots, getting permissions and arranging appropriate equipments was done by other folks. All photographs shared here are not related to the project. These are some of the casual shots taken during eclipse hours on that evening...Here is one of the simple shot when eclipse just started This shot was taken around 6:35 pm on 10th Dec, 2011 !!! Usually Lunar Eclipse used to take place in January, when sky is mainly covered with clouds or fog. Since this time, it happened early, people got to see it clearly and there was huge buzz among various Photography communities.Here is one of the photograph of Humayun's tomb. It's taken with Zoon-in/Zoom-out during long-exposure. Since most of folks were busy on eclipse project and they had to spent 4 hrs at Humayun's tomb, I thought of roaming around and having some clicks of the place in this wonderful lighting, which is rare to capture. Above photograph is also a result of some of the experiments done at Humayun's Tomb, Delhi.Here are some water ponds in all four directions of Humayn's Tomb, but the one in front of entry gate is maintained well. Reflection of the main tomb was looking awesome in Eclipse hours, although above photograph failed to show the real magic... You can see the shining moon in the sky and lovely hues of sunset, when exposed this view for a long time.A similar photograph of Humayn Tomb, with some part of it being reflecting on adjoining water stream... Usually Humayun Tomb closes before Sunset, but if someone wants to have access for some specific purpose, permissions are required in advance.Relatively closer look at Lunar Eclipse through Humayun Tomb. Lunar Eclipse of 10th Dec 2011 can be seen in Photographs at http://www.examiner.com/photography-in-national/yesterday-s-total-lunar-eclipse-photos-1 as well !!!Light and colors were changing with every minute. In fact the change was very prominent for folks who were shooting moon close-ups with tele-photo lenses. After one stage, color of moon starts changing to red and again come back natural shade after few hours...Opposite side of Humayun Tomb, Delhi, INDIAThere are various photography techniques are explained on web and some of them are really technical. At the same time, some of them are really easy to get an idea about the concept and light variation trend during the eclipse hours. In my opinion, understanding the concept and applying your ideas is more important otherwise we always see similar shots on every lunar eclipse. Now many softwares even come with standard ways of capturing lunar eclipse and create single HDR or multi-exposure shots.Carrying Gorilla-pod helps in placing camera at low height, so that some of the other compositions can be tried... No doubt that sturdy and big tripods are important for such shoots but some desi fundas also work well :)Humayun Tomb is very well maintained by Archaeological Survey of India !!! ASI is is the organization to get special permissions to get entry into Humayun Tomb in odd hours. There is lot of green area around main tomb in this campus. And there is very special thing about Mughal Architecture that all four areas around a building are maintained in similar fashion. Alignments of landscapes, gardens and trees would be exactly same.During day time, entry fees for SAARC citizens is 10 Rs. SAARC includes Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Maldives and Afghanistan... BIMSTEC Countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Myanmar also need to pay 10 Rs only. For others it's $5.This photograph would be give you a sense about it's shape and architecture. It has a square base and all four faces of Humayun Tomb look same. Theoretically it's a two storey building but height of one storey is unmatchable :) ... Whole building is made of red stone and Taj Mahal is exactly replica of this building, but in white marble...Light streaks touching ground after filtering through tree leaves around Humayun Tomb... Such photographs from early morning look stunning, as light is most favorable at that point of time of the day...Check following link on wiipedia to know more about Humayun Tomb - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomb_of_Humayun . This page has rich information about architecture of Humayun Tomb and history related to it.Humayun Tomb is also in the list of World Heritage sites maintained by UNESCO. Check out http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/232 for more details.Every other site about Delhi has special mention of Humayun Tomb, so I would not repeat all those well known facts about the place. Delhicapital.com has also written about Humayun Tomb in a well structured way... Check it out......A photographer sitting in front of main Tomb in the campus to shoot Lunar Eclipse 2011 with Humayun Tomb in foreground. These folks were sitting at same place, fiddling with camera setting to get best possible multi-exposure shots. Some of them also work on HDRs and hope to see the results soon.Some of the standard techniques of shooting Lunar Eclipses are available here - it was lovely evening with enthusiastic Photographers at Humayun Tomb !!!


India Gate is a place which I visited the most amongst all other monuments and touristy places in Delhi. and there are millions of Delhi people like me who have spent good amount of time walking around India Gate. There are lot of reasons for India Gate being so popular in many ways. One of the key reasons I think is it's accessibility in Lutyens Delhi and it's beautiful surroundings.



Many of you may know that Jama Masjid is largest mosque of India (which is controversial and you will few details below) and situated in hustle bustle of Old Delhi. You may have seen those large Eid gathering photographs of Jama Masjid and those delicious street food shops of Chandi-Chowk or Chawri Bazar but may not really know some of the lesser known facts about this mosque which is very important for religious standpoint as well as heritage & architecture. On internet, there are also claims that Jama Masjid in Delhi is largest mosque in India, and at some places the largest mosque in India is Taj-ul-Masjid in Bhopal.


Segway tours are getting quite popular across the world and especially in tourist places. Similarly there is one option in Delhi as well and they have 2 tours - Rajpath Tour and Historical Tour. The second one has been stopped because it was not feasible to conduct the tour safely because of the road conditions and the traffic patterns. Now there is only one tour available which takes you through President's house, Parliament House and the India Gate.


Few days back I wrote about top-3 not to miss places in Delhi if you have a day to explore the city and it’s heritage. After that post, some folks came back and shared some feedback which I wanted to address. Following were some points - 1. Lots of people visit the city during the weekend, so there is a good number of people who would want to explore the city in 2 days. Therefore, a little more comprehensive plan would help. 2. This post only covers heritage and architecture related options, what about people interested in other things like shopping, markets, food, street walks, nature, art & culture etc. There should be a lot more than just heritage sites in the capital city of India. 3. Metro has become one of the most important modes of commute within the city and it’s relatively cheap as well, so why not talk about a plan which can be covered well through the Metro and save 3K+ on taxi for 2 days in Delhi. There is a Metro pass available for a day. Go to Metro ticket counter and inquire.

If you are visiting Delhi first time, then (like many others) don't plan a trip to Agra for seeing Taj Mahal. I strongly believe that if you only have a weekend of so, there is lot to see in Delhi (including mini Taj in red stone) and that's the best use of your time. Now let me come to the nest part - prioritization of places to see. Delhi has lot of heritage sites and beautiful architecture to explore. But if you only have a weekend, you can't explore everything. So in my opinion, the very first thing should be 3 World Heritage Sites in Delhi - Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb and Red Fort. Now this post doesn't finish here, because I intend to share you a full day plan to visit these places along with the places where you can have your food. Let's check out this post and I hope that it helps you plan your day trip in the capital city of India - Delhi.


Last week I was out with fellow Photographers, Bloggers and Foodies to explore some of the popular eating places in Old Delhi (Chandni Chowk). During this walk we went to different places around Chandni Chowk & towards the end we also thought of going inside Fatehpuri Masjid. Chandni Chowk is just across the Red Fort. The road going from Red Fort ends at Masjid Fatehpuri. This is such a peaceful place in the middle of lot of hustle bustle of Chandni Chowk. There is a huge campus surrounded by four walls and entry gates from 3 sides.There is a very interesting history behind this mosque of old Delhi. This mosque was built in 1650 by wife of Shah Jahan, her name was Fatehpuri Begum. She belonged to Fatehpur Sikri (a place around Agra). After 1857, Britishers auctioned this mosque to a Hindu businessman Lala Chunnamal. He had bought the mosque for 19 thousand rupees and to me it sounds a lot of money at that time. And people say that Lala Chunnamal used the mosque for social causes. Later on Britishers bought it back in lie of 4 villages. This was the time when Britishers invited back the muslims to Old Delhi and renovated the mosque for the community. Tarun Gaur was with us to share all these interesting events from History of Old Delhi.This walk was planned by Desi Traveller with the help of Deba Rajpal and Tarun Gaur. There was good turnaround and all of us had lot of fun eating some of the interesting things in Old Delhi. I will be sharing another post on food we tried and some history around these food items. These food businesses are run by some specific families who came to Chandi Chowk from different parts of country. And that’s why there is a such nice mix of food from different states of India.As we entered inside Fatehpuri Mosque, we noticed these groups studying. This was first time I was seeing such interesting sessions outside television. These folks were reading something and it seemed that they were trying hard to remember what they were reading. These folks were rocking their bodies back and forth while reading.Fatehpuri Masjid is quite different from Jama Masjid. Somehow this Mosque was not as crowded as we Jama Masjid. There is a water pond in the middle of this whole compound. You can see this water pound in first photograph.In the rectangular compound the main Mosque is on one side and other three sides have beautiful arched corridors. It was a great visit to the mosque. Hopefully I will visit Fatehpuri Mosque again and spend a little more time. This time, I had to accompany the group and adhere to the schedule of the food-walk.


Long time back when started searching about Change of Guards, goolge was suggesting London or Buckinghom Palce. On searching more I got the confirmation that Change of Guards at Indian President's house is open for public on Sturdays. For a long time, the visit remained in plans till I saw the blog by Ruby Singh. So this saturday we planned to visit President's house to witness Change of Guards in morning. Since the ceremony starts at 8am sharp one needs to plan the day early. All of us were up by 5:30 and started from Noida at 6:30am. It hardly took 30 minutes to reach Rashtrapati House in morning and that gave us enough time to figure out the entry gate and car parking. We followed the road which connects India Gate to President's house. And when we reached at the entry, police directed us to Dalhousie Road and asked to enter from Gate number 37. When I talked to them, it seemed that no one at entry was very sure. They were sure of one thing that some shooting is happening so entry through gate number 2 is not possible. Anyways we headed to Gate number 37. The security man at Gate number 37 was not sure if entry would happen through this gate. So we requested to confirm so that we head towards the right entry gate. There were 5 more cars following us :). He had few calls and confirmed that entry would happen through gate number 37 and car parking is also available inside. That was a great news because finding parking in this region would be a task (because of security reasons). As we parked our car, Vibha and I were thinking about the security. No one checked our car and we were already in President's house premises. While we were discussing this, we saw these jawans going towards the ceremony ground. It was a good indication that we should walk fast as it was 7:50 already. We reached the ceremony and almost all chairs were empty. I headed to the first row and a jawan asked me to move to second row. He mentioned that first row is reserved, while there is no such thing. This is first time I experienced an Armyman cheating in front of me. Anyways, it was not a big deal so I simply moved to second row. By now, only Army band was available at the ceremony ground. And a man was describing about the whole process on loudspeaker. And then Change of Guard Ceremony started. The Army band started playing 'Saare Jahan se Achha' and these Jawans entered the ceremony ground on their magnificent horses. At the beginning of the ceremony who see so much disciplined action and feel energetic. There must be a reason why Army ensures that every Jawan is highly disciplined and energetic. Looking at their each action you feel proud. These horses are amazingly trained. All of them take position and ensure that each one is in row. While standing they hardly do any movement. A few times, you can see some movement around their neck but their legs remain at same position all the time. When we walk, each of them are in sync. I have also seen Beating the Retreat ceremony and was super impressed with camels trained for that ceremony. Guards already on duty came to foreground of Rashtrapati Bhawan and took their place. Soon after the new set of guards joined them on ground and the formalities started. All of them were walking with full energy and enthusiasm. Please note the dirt around their feet. All of them were in sync and accurate. New guards are inspected. It's hard for me to describe each and every ceremony on ground and that's the reason that you should visit Rashtrapati Bhawan on any Saturday to witness the action yourself. I was super happy to see a Photographer and Videographer who were covering the ceremony. I have never seen Army Photographer earlier and wondering what's the eligibility to become a Photographer with Indian Army :). The ceremony concluded with some interesting actions by horses. Do check out the video for full action and I found it very interesting. Some quick details - Time of Change of Guards - 8 am sharp When should one reach - By 7:30am (Reason behind this time is explained above) Nearest Metro Station to Indian President's House - Central Secretariat Car Parking around President's House - If entering from Gate-37, parking is available inside. If entering from main gate (Gate no 2, you need to park near water fountains - As per traffic police, it's allowed in morning although I was not very sure ) . Otherwise you can on the road connecting President's House with India Gate. Entry Ticket for Change of Guards - No ticket or special permission needed Documents to carry - Any valid identity proof in original form. Mom and dad moving back towards the car after witnessing Change of Guard. Selfidow or something else. Some creative suggesstions are welcome. These carved elephants caught my attention and thought of taking a quick shot. The President House has very beautiful carvings all around. While we were heading towards the car parking we noticed these folks taking some rest in shade. This was the troop, which gave charge to the new team. This is how Delhi roads look on weekend morning :) How here is a quiz for you - Which of these photographs are clicked with DSLR and Mobile Camera? Do answer through comment below (And you have to judge through visuals only). The one who answers correctly would get something interesting from Travellingcamera.com Team !!!

Qutub Minar is one of the most popular heritage compounds in Delhi and quite popular destination amongst tourists visiting Delhi. It's also a good places for local folks to spend quality time with their family & friends. Many times photographers and heritage explorers can be seen around Qutub Minar campus. This Photo Journey shares some of the special photographs from Qutub Minar campus. Reaching Qutub Minar has become pretty easy now. One can take Metro to Qutub Minar. The Qutub Minar Metro station is not close to the compound, but there are autos which drop folks from Metro to Qutub Minar and charge 10 rs each. If you don’t want to share the auto, most of the folks use meters and that’s reliable. It will not cost more than 30 Rs.Other good to way explore these beautiful monuments in Delhi are HOHO buses run by Delhi Tourism department. You can buy a daily pass and hop on/off to/from these buses at defined stations, which are usually very well located around the most popular tourist destinations in Delhi.Booking a Taxi to go to Qutub Minar from Central Delhi, East Delhi or Noida might be a bad idea because of slow traffic movement. I had gone through such experience twice and now try to use Metro, if possible.After Red Fort, Qutub Minar is most visited monuments in Delhi and one should expect lot of people inside Qutub Minar compound, even on weekdays. Apart from the main minaret, there are various architectural structures in this compound having different stories associated. There are no guides around Qutub Minar now, but you can get an audio device on rent which will keep telling you about the place. Easy to use device and have good details about various spots in Qutub Minar campus.As you walk around this huge compound, you get to see spectacular beauty of the Qutub Minar from different angles. Above photograph shows one of the views of Qutub Minar through the other structures around.It's a wonderful place for photographers because of diversified opportunities to click architecture, people, landscapes and lot more. I have been part of various photo-walks here and every time it was different experience.Tourists from different parts of the world come to Qutub Minar to witness it's grandness and know about it's history. It's really strange that we don't care much to know our own history, but things have been changing for good. There are lot of social circles which inspire folks to visit such places and know more about our heritage. Mehrauli Archeological park is another interesting place around Qutub Minar. It's awesome to see these airplanes crossing through Qutub Minar. Although there is a huge different between the top most peak of Qutub and the flight, but such views look dramatic.Qutub is the 2nd tallest minar (73 metres) in India after Fateh Burj. Qutb Minar originally is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is made of red sandstone and marble. The stairs of the tower has 379 steps, is 72.5 metres high, and has a base diameter of 14.3 metres, which narrows to 2.7 metres at the top. Construction was started in 1192 by Qutb-ud-din Aibakand was carried on by his successor, Iltutmish. Check out more about Qutub on Wikipedia His expressions explain it all about the height and grandness of Qutub Minar.



At the very heart of Delhi lies the "showpiece of Lutyen's Delhi", the business and commercial centre we know as Connaught Place or CP. The place not only houses some of the biggest names in the financial scene of the country, it is also one of the most happening places as far as restaurants, shopping options, and crowd is concerned. A favorite amongst young couples, foreign tourists, college students, and families, Connaught Place offers immense opportunity to photographers as well. Teeming with hawkers dressed in colourful traditional clothes, young and old beautiful faces, colonial architecture complete with pillars, arches, and buttresses, a photographer cannot resist the charms of CP. Portraits, architecture, candid - you name it and CP offers it. So we, armed with our Honor 5C, descended upon CP for photography on a Saturday. But we decided to add a twist to it. We went there after sunset to capture the CP of the shadows. When the crowds have dwindled, the hawkers are wrapping up their make-shift shops, and the practical jeans and t-shirt of the days are replaced by night dresses and high heels, a new CP emerges. Less "happening", but yet glamourous. Just a reminder - this series is an attempt to see if we need a DSLR camera for day-to-day photography or whether a smartphone suffices. All photographs in this post are shot using Honor 5c in CP under low-light conditions. Be it the panning shot of the auto in motion, or the dog sitting like royalty under the lamps, our phone managed to shine through. Now you can see for yourself and decide whether you need to purchase a DSLR if you don't intend to shoot like a pro, and are happy with regular shots based on a good composition. After spending some time in and around CP, we headed home. However, our explorations with Honor 5c are not over yet. Next we will head out of the city to the mountains with the smartphone that hadn't yet given us a single opportunity to complain. To find out how that goes, stay tuned.

Few weeks back, Nat Geo Moments Awards 2014 team announced an Instawalk in Delhi and Photographers were asked for share their Instagram & Twitter accounts to select 20 Photographers from the City. I also got a chance to join for this Instawalk, which happens in Mehrauli Archelogical Park in Delhi. Let's check out this Photo Journey to know more about the Instawalk and Nat Geo Moments Awards.I had also shared by Instagram account with Nat Geo team and was selected to join this Insta-walk. It sounded very exciting but at the same time I had my doubts about this Photo-walk, because I couldn't find names of photographers who definitely do great photography & my inspiration as well. Because it was about Nat Geo, I wanted to give them a benefit of doubt. One of my office friend was also joining for the walk, which was encouraging.Mehrauli Archeological Park is close to Qutub Minar Metro station, so we planned to take Metro-train from Noida to reach for Instawalk at 9:30am. Opposite to Delhi trends, Instawalk started on time and we were late by 5 minutes. But we hit the place before the first brief. Delhi Heritage Walks team was there to help every Photographer to understand the place, although most of the photographers were more interested in capturing the place well. There was negligible participation from Nat Geo. It seemed more like a promotional event by Nat Geo, wherein they wanted folks to create some buzz about #NGMA2014 through Instagram and Twitter.All of us met around Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb complex built in Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Jamali Kamali is one of the oldest structures in the town which is maintained by ASI. It was built around 1528 CE.Breakfast was arranged during the Instawalk. There is a green area around Jamali Kamali, which was chosen for breakfast. Food was good and I think, it was home made.Mehrauli Archaeological Park is spread over an area of around 200 acres in Delhi. This Archeological park is located just on the back side of Qutub Minar World Heritage site and the Qutb complex. This park consists of more than 100 historically significant monuments, although many of them are in ruins now. There are few interesting water bodies in this complex and most part of it is very well maintained with green patchesMehrauli Archeological Park is the only area in Delhi includes the ruins of Lal Kot built by Tomar Rajputs, which makes it the oldest extant fort of Delhi.Mehrauli Archeological park contains sites like Tomb of Balban, wherein a true arch and the true dome were built for the first time in India... and then Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb of Maulana Jamali Kamali (Jamali Kamboh),Quli Khan's Tomb, Jahaz Mahal, Zafar Mahal of Bahadur Shah II alias Lal Mahal, Gandhak ki Baoli, Hauz-i-Shamsi and Tomb of Adham Khan. Rajon Ki Baoli, a stepwell, and Madhi Masjid.A view of Qutub Minar from Kuli Khan Tomb. When we were roaming around this place, a bunch of folks were playing cricket in the back side of Tomb of Kuli Khan. This comparitively a smaller tomb and one needs to climb up few stairs to see it from inside. Tomb of Quli Khan, overlooking the Qutub Minar. All Instagrammers were busy in clicking photographs around the tomb and few were simultaneously posting these photographs to Instagram and Twitter. Rain had happened last night so some of us tried clicking reflections as well :).Above is a photograph of Rajaon ki Baoli, which is comparatively smaller than Gandhak ki Baoli. All this shows about rich Indian Heritage in capital city Delhi. It's a famous stepwell near Adham Khan's Tomb having multiple levels in it and one of the special places inside Mehrauli Archaeological ParkRajon Ki Baoli is also referred as 'Rajon ki Bain'. This magnificent three-storeyed stepwell is believed to have been built by Daulat Khan during the reign of Sikandar Lodi.Rajaon ki baoli is one of the highlights of Mehrauli Archaeological Park and everyone during Instawalk liked this place the most. This baoli has multiple levels and each level of the baoli exposes to visitors as one walks towards its steps. The baoli-complex has a 12-pillared tomb and a mosque with some pretty plaster decoration on it. This Instawalk was concluded here and we headed back. Now it was time for me to attend a Blogger meet at CP.


Some Experiments with old architecture of Jantar Mantar in Delhi, INDIA : Posted by VJ SHARMA on www.travellingcamera.com : Last month me and one of my friend were waiting for other folks to reach Connaught Place in Delhi and they called us to inform that all of them are arriving after 1:30 Hrs... This was good opportunity for us to explore some place nearby and decided to visit Jantar Mantar... After reaching the place I was not able to decide what should I shoot... Everywhere people were roaming and it was really difficult to find a place without people... and it was not like two or three folks.. It was huge crowd in front of each yantra @ Jantar Mantar.. So finally I decided to have some photographs which can avoid this crowd and it gave a good opportunity to place with various angles/compositions... check out and critics are welcome !!The first photograph where I wanted to have darkest possible shadows to make it look like black tiles in contact with reds and white ones.. Although it doesn't look like that... I would have to wait to click this photograph at right time but we had to move out in few hrs... Never mind, I will try it again...This time I was carrying SONY Alpha-700 and was confused with some of the controls.. Anyway that's not important... These yantras were very narrow is shape and it was difficult to fit myself for clicking these architecture forms nicely... Here is a tilted view of a semi-spherical yantra @ Jantar Mantar...All these photographs from the same yantra and it was was quite interesting... But please don't ask me about how it functions and what it is supposed to do...Stairs hidden behind these structures and everyone needs to follow them to go down and see the real work inside these yantras.. In Jantar Mantar at jaipur, everyone was not allowed to go inside these structures but in Delhi I didn't see such restrictions except one which had highest structure followed by lot of stairs....Jantar Mantar in Delhi is a very popular place among activists, social associations and artists as well... Many of the NGOs choose this place to start a rally or protest... Also many artists have explored this very well and many times Photographers have exhibited this place...A Series of small pillars taking all the weight of small paths connecting outer circle of a structure with a pole in the middle... as you can see the turning path in a circle...One of my friend called it 'Stairs of Success'.. I don't if that is the name of these stairs but like the caption :)Final Photograph showing the close-up view of this architecture which shows the age of this structure and its been repaired multiple times in past which resulted in this roughness... I am again planning to visit Jantar Mantar in Delhi and will ensure that I get full day to spend there...


When loitering around in Cannaught Place or navigating traffic on Barakhamba Road, it is difficult imagine that barely 5-minutes away, hidden amongst trees, lies the magnificient stone structure of Agrasen ki baoli. The 14th-century step well was restored by the Archaeological Survey of India in the year 2002. Now the Baoli is clean and well-maintained. We visited Agrasen ki Baoli on a humid Sunday afternoon and were expecting to find a more or less abandoned structure with may be a couple of people loitering about here and there. But we were in for a surprise. The baoli was buzzing with well-dressed, pouting, selfie-clicking youngsters. They were there in such large numbers that it was difficult to capture even a single shot without people in it. This was heartening. I don't know whether this popularity is because the Baoli was recently featured in the popular Bollywood film PK or because the Baoli is clean, litter-free and situated barely a kilometre away from the heart of the city. It may be all of these, but it is wonderful to see the hard work of the ASI bearing fruit. Usually when we head out to explore the city, we make sure that we carry a DSLR and all the required lenses, but this time we had decided to do something different. The impact of camera phones on the photography ecosystem is the hot topic for debate nowadays, and we decided to settle it with a practical. So this time instead of a DSLR, we were carrying a smartphone - Honor 5c to be precise. All the pictures that you are seeing in this post have been clicked using Honor 5c. Based on the results, we can comfortably say that for everyday non-professional use, a smartphone, if used well, can suffice. One would of course need to study all the capabilities and features of the particular smartphone camera in details to be able to use them in appropriate situations. Coming back to the Baoli, we captured the structure, the pigeons peeping out of the gaps in the walls, the contrast between the modern skyscrapers of CP and the medieval architecture of the Baoli, the people exploring the structure and a lot more. The baoli is situated in one of the lanes branching out of the very pretty Hailey road, and this lane is dotted with some very interesting grafitti. We captured some of that too. If you haven't yet seen Agrasen ki Baoli, we recommend that you should. But make sure that the day is pleasant and you have time on your hands, because there is a lot to take in at the Baoli and in the surroundings.

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