Himanshi
Connaught Place market is a popular spot in Delhi that is more than just a market complex. This place is considered a symbol of modernity and progress in India, and it continues to be an important commercial and cultural hub in Delhi. Connaught Place is home to many small shops and stalls that cater to all the needs of the locals.
These business ventures are an essential source of livelihood for many people in Delhi. Through this, one can understand the significance of Connaught Place Delhi as an economic and cultural centre that is evergreen. It also highlights the vital role that small-scale businesses play in shaping the city’s economy and social context.
Some argue that this project was an attempt to erase Delhi’s cultural and historical heritage. Still, it can be seen that Connaught Place Delhi has emerged as a popular spot among people from all age groups and regional orientations.
History of Connaught Place
Connaught Place market, also referred to as CP, has been a prominent commercial and financial centre in Delhi, India. This place was built during the British colonial era in the early 20th century and is named after the Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, a member of the British royal family. However, the design of this place was given by Robert Tor Russell, a British architect in the 20th century. Connaught Circle is located at the centre of the circular layout of Connaught Place.
The British saw the construction of Connaught Place to modernise and westernise Delhi. Connaught Place, which is a market complex, was carefully designed and divided into two circles – the inner circle and the outer circle. Both have different cultural and religious landmarks that came into existence later in and around Connaught Place.
At the inner circle, we can explore the shops, cafes, and restaurants that are popular destinations for shopping and entertainment and are also home to several iconic landmarks. At the outer circle, we can explore the colonial era architecture, which is home to several important cultural landmarks.
Highlights of Connaught Place Delhi 
Janpath Market
It is a bustling bazaar that offers a wide variety of things to shop for. This market is famous due to its history as well as the shopping experience that it provides to its visitors. Here, you will find not just clothes but almost everything big or small; you can find Indian handicrafts and textiles, some of them being from one of the most textile-rich states of India, Gujrat. Here, you can also find jewellery, Fashion accessories and items to beautify your home.
Central Park
Central Park is a perfect place to sit and relax in the middle of the busy commercial district. The park has a large fountain and is a popular spot for relaxing and people-watching.
Religious Sites
Two of the most famous religious sites in Connaught Place market are Hanuman Mandir and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Both of them are famous sites regularly used for prayers in the Hindu and Sikh communities, respectively. Locals and tourists visit here to enjoy the sight of these remarkable religious sites.
Connaught Place as a hub for youth activism
After India’s independence in 1947, Connaught Circle continued to be a significant site for organising rallies, marches, and protests in and around the circle. Even today, it witnesses numerous protests and demonstrations, with people from all walks of life gathering to express their views and demands on a variety of issues. For instance, women’s rights, gender equality, protest against corruption and social inequality, etc.
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National Museum of India at Connaught Place 
Located at Connaught Place Delhi, this museum is one of the most prominent museums in India. The National Museum of India is governed and taken care of by the Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This museum was established in 1949. The blueprint of the museum was laid by the Gwyer Committee in 1946. This museum was successfully established after a brief discussion held at the Royal Academy in London, followed by a second one at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
National Museum of India was inaugurated by the then governor-general of India, Shri Chakravarti, along with Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. This place presents a perfect blend of culture, history, heritage and archaeology. This museum has more than two lakh artefacts that belong to the prehistoric era. Moreover, this museum also has modern works of art that many come to compliment and cherish here.
Here, you can find 16 different departments that store artefacts and heritage from the past. Moreover, they also have collection galleries. Harappan Gallery, Mauray Shunga and Satvahana Arts Gallery, Kushana Gallery, and Medieval Arts Gallery are a few of them, and there are many more that everyone who likes to visit museums or has a keen interest in knowing about artefacts should explore.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Connaught Place Delhi, from past to present, stands as a true testament to the historical, architectural, and commercial significance of New Delhi, India and continues to be one of the most essential sights for blooming commercial and youth culture in India. Finally, it can be concluded that it is the symbol of Delhi’s vibrant nature and cosmopolitan character.
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