The crowded lanes of Delhi’s historic market, Chandni Chowk, have a new addition: a chic shopping mall that will house national, local and international brands. Known for its bazaar atmosphere, street food and traditional shops, the bustling market built by Mughal emperor Shahjehan and designed by his daughter Jahanara will see the opening of Omaxe Chowk in March.
Entrance gate to the old bazaar
Real estate player Omaxe has constructed this mall under a public-private partnership model with civic body North Delhi Municipal Corporation on a long-term lease basis. The Omaxe Chowk development includes multi-level parking and with the soft launch, some retail stores have already started operations. Jatin Goel, executive director of Omaxe Ltd., said Omaxe Chowk combines modernity with the rich cultural heritage of old Delhi. “We see ourselves as a gateway to Chandni Chowk. The estimated footfall will be 10 times that of some popular malls,” he added.
Recently, Jubilant Foodworks decided to introduce American food brand Popeyes to the Delhi region with the launch of the first outlet at Omaxe Chowk. “What better way to find your way into the hearts of Delhites, by penetrating into the ‘real heart’ of Delhi in terms of a place that attracts high footfall? Chandni Chowk is synonymous with authentic cuisine and is a melting pot of cultures similar to the Popeyes brand, known for its authentic Cajun flavors and Louisiana heritage,” said Gaurav Pande, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Popeyes India.
Also read: How GenZ will drive culture in 2024
The curated retail space is categorized into three sections – clothing, jewelry and food – and has managed to attract some of Chandi Chowk’s vintage retailers into its fold. The sprawling food court called Dawatpur, billed as the largest in the country, will also feature heritage brands like Al-Turki, Qureshi Kabab, Jung Bahadur Kachori and Kuremal Kulfi, alongside curated players like Haldiram’s, Giani’s and international brands. Bridal wear retailers such as Chhabra 555 and Ram Chand Krishan Chand, along with specialty jewelers like Ratan Chand Jwala Nath Jewelers and Bansal Jewelers, are among the local brands that will have a presence in the mall. “We are integrating some of Chandi Chowk’s heritage brands into this retail space. There will also be modern brands closer to the ethos of Chandni Chowk,” said Goel.
Sanjay Bhargava, chairman of Chandni Chowk Sarv Vyapar Mandal, who is part of the redevelopment committee, said, “Redevelopment of the area has been our collective effort. Chandni Chowk never had organized brands, so this mall will fill that gap. The large parking space will play a key role in the neighborhood. So overall, I think we will see a further increase in footfall and also attract a wider segment of consumers.
Ramesh Kalyanaraman, executive director, Kalyan Jewelers, said the brand has strategically strengthened its footprint in the Delhi-NCR region. “Our showroom at Omaxe Chowk has been operational since February 3 and we have seen a high footfall. Given the importance of Chandni Chowk as a tourist attraction and a major hub for wedding-related shopping, we see immense potential in this market,” he said. added.
