New Delhi
Chaotic Capital - Shopper's Paradise
An astounding 14 million people live in Delhi, it is hard to describe the sheer magnitude of the teeming masses. The variety of sights and sounds, the throngs of pesky beggars, the endless bazaars, wide open spaces and crowded slums make for a sometimes overwhelming experience. Delhi is the capital of India, and a major hub for industry and transportation. Hence, it is also one of India's most polluted cities. A half hour car ride through the city results in a coating of black soot on your skin and nasal passages. Everyone seems to have a sinus infection here.
 But there's also much to see and do. Goods from all over the country are available here at competitive prices. This is shopping like you've never seen. From the posh boutiques of Connaught Circle to the chaotic bazaars of the old city, whatever you want is available, in whatever price range you can afford.
It means what it says - honking is the only way Indian drivers seem to be able to orient themselves in traffic. Wait for side means: wait until there's room to pass.
Delhi has a long and colorful history. The ancient city of Indraprashta was founded here 2000 years ago, a city mentioned in the famous epic the Mahabharata. Ruled by several now fallen dynasties Delhi has actually been at least 8 different cities, the last being founded by the British who named it the capital of India in 1931. Sixteen years later India gained it's Independence and Delhi continues to thrive as the center of government and commerce.
 There are two parts of Delhi, old and new. The British redesigned it in an interesting pattern of concentric circles with radial streets. The streets are wide and tree lined. In contrast old Delhi is a maze of smaller crowded lanes and teeming bazaars. New wealthy suburbs have been built up in the south of the city, surrounded on all sides however by sprawling slums where people live in the most terrible conditions.
Rickshaws are used to transport amazing loads.
Evenings bring out the crowds. Walking down the main bazaar in Karol Bagh, a popular shopping area, it's almost shoulder to shoulder going. All kinds of transport is used here, from giant lorries, luxury cars, cycle rickshaws and bullock carts. Crossing a street here takes some bravery, the pedestrian is the lowest on the scale of right of way. Larger things get precedence!
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Shopping for Sarees
One of the wonderful sari shops in Karol Bagh in the old City. A market where the crowds flock looking for deals.
 My adopted "brother" Shankar who's buried in my mountain of purchased sarees "sari pahar"! I was the first customer of the day - considered holy by the Indians. They insisted on a little cash money and upon receiving it placed it on their foreheads to bless it!
 More New Delhi Pics
Take a little side tour to Rishikesh
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