Daryaganj’s Book Market Shuts Down After 50 Years

Old Delhi, often synonymous with paranthe wali gali and nalli nihari is flocked by hordes of foodies throughout the year. However, food is not the only thing Old Delhi has to offer. It also houses the Daryaganj book market that bibliophiles might consider pure treasure. The market has its own historical significance and is often frequented by book lovers. However, a recent move by the Delhi High Court has left a lot of book vendors and buyers in this area disheartened.

A recent order by the Delhi High Court has instructed the NDMC (North Delhi Municipal Corporation) to shut the Sunday book market in Daryaganj permanently. According to the court’s orders, the book shops in the area will continue to operate, however, the market on the roads will not be functional anymore. This order intends to ensure that the weekly Sunday bazaar is not permitted on Netaji Subhashi Marg which witnesses high traffic at all times, leaving hardly any space for the pedestrians.

Also known as Sunday kitab bazaar, this market has been on display since 1964 and is known for the availability of rare titles at dirt-cheap prices. A mecca for book worms, one can find everything from brand new editions to second hand copies of books. Certain places at the market that sell books by the kilo at discounted rates are fascinating to witness. From coffee table books, to memoirs and children’s magazines, the list is endless in terms of variety. Daryaganj offers everything under the sun and more importantly, a charming experience.

According to reports by Scroll, SEWA, a trade union based in Ahmedabad is helping these vendors by trying to make interim arrangements till a permanent solution is reached. This decision is expected to put financial constraints on the book vendors in the area. 

Post the court’s directive, what’s in store for the Daryaganj book vendors is uncertain. As a frequent visitor to this flea market, one cannot do much but hope for a prompt solution.