The area has transformed into a bustling market filled with food, shopping, and excitement, offering a unique celebration of Ramadan.
Mohammad bin Ismail | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — Nestled in South Delhi with its serpentine lanes and bylanes, Zakir Nagar locality in Okhla has evolved into one of the city’s most dynamic and lively markets, attracting food enthusiasts and Eid shoppers alike during the holy month of Ramadan. The market, alive with energy even late into the night offers a diverse range of food, shopping opportunities, and festive decorations.
“Zakir Nagar is more than just a market; it’s a food lover’s haven and a key destination for Eid preparations,” said resident Musharraf Husain. “The vibrancy here is unparalleled, and during Ramadan, it truly comes alive.”
While Old Delhi has long been a popular food destination, Zakir Nagar has rapidly emerged as the new hotspot for food lovers. From Qureshi kebabs to Lucknawi Galavati kebabs and Kunafa, Zakir Nagar’s eateries offer a variety of authentic Mughlai dishes, drawing people from all over Delhi and beyond.
“The charm of Zakir Nagar is unmatched, especially during Ramadan. You won’t find anything like it in Old Delhi,” said Sohrab Ansari, a regular visitor to the market, while sampling some of the food offerings. “From chicken lollipops to crispy fried kebabs, there’s something for everyone here.”
However, the allure of Zakir Nagar isn’t limited to food. The market also provides a feast for the senses with its vibrant shops and beautifully decorated streets. Here, shoppers can find everything from Pathani suits and gold jewellery to Eid essentials, creating a one-stop destination for all festive needs.
“We come here to buy everything for Eid,” said Bushra Khan, a shopper holding up a bag of vermicelli. “From clothes to sweets, it’s all here in one place, and the atmosphere is amazing.”
One of the standout attractions of Zakir Nagar is Javed’s Nihari, an iconic eatery known for its rich, slow-cooked Nihari. “The Nihari here is different from anything you’ll find anywhere else in India,” said Ambar Ali, who travelled from outside Delhi to taste the famous dish. “The taste is unbeatable.”
For those craving grilled and fried delights, Madina Chicken Corner is a must-visit. Renowned for its chicken lollipops and crispy fried chicken, it has quickly become a favourite among foodies. “The food here is better than what you get in Jama Masjid,” commented another satisfied customer. “The taste and quality are unmatched.”
Rampur House, known for its legendary Rampuri chapli kebabs, is another gem in Zakir Nagar. “People come from all over just to taste the famous kebabs of Rampur,” said Nazrul, a local vendor. “The popularity of this place is growing by the day.”
No food trail is complete without dessert, and Zakir Nagar offers some of the finest. Pahalwan Ji’s lassi shop, famous for its creamy kheer, rich lassi, and indulgent gulab jamun, remains a crowd favourite. “If you haven’t had Pahalwan Ji’s sweets, you haven’t truly experienced Zakir Nagar,” said a frequent customer. “My favourite is faluda during Ramadan.”
For those on the hunt for the perfect Eid outfit, Zakir Nagar also boasts an array of Lucknow Chikan Art shops. Specialising in intricate beat stitching and Chikan embroidery, these stores offer beautifully crafted kurtas and pyjamas.
“Chikan work is a tradition, and our designs are some of the best in Delhi,” said a shopkeeper. “We’ve been doing this since 1990, and our customers keep coming back for our quality.”
As Ramadan draws to a close, Zakir Nagar continues to be a symbol of festive spirit. The market remains bustling late into the night, reflecting the true essence of Ramadan — a time for reflection, joy, and community. Whether it’s the food, the shopping, or the overall experience, Zakir Nagar offers something for everyone this Ramadan.
From the sizzling kebabs filling the air with tantalising aromas to the lively shops offering Eid essentials, Zakir Nagar captures the essence of Ramadan at every turn. Its vibrant atmosphere and energy, especially during this holy month, make it a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.
