“Hobby bhi hai roti bhi hai,” exclaimed Asharfi Lal Verma describing his business at Daryaganj Sunday Book Market. It works as a hobby and a means to earn a livelihood. Today we explore this iconic market. For decades, the Daryaganj Sunday Book Market has been a haven for book lovers. It is a place where the scent of aged paper mingles with the vibrant energy of Delhi.
Imagine the scene. Every Sunday, the footpaths between Netaji Subhash Marg and Asaf Ali Marg transform. They become a bustling bazaar of books. Landmark cinema halls like Golcha and Delite once marked the endpoints of this L-shaped market.
The Daryaganj Sunday Book Market is more than just a market. It is a cultural institution. It is officially recognized as a natural market. This is a place where buyers and sellers interact freely. There is little institutional intervention.
For over five decades, this market has served readers from all walks of life. Unlike typical weekly markets, it specializes in rare used and pirated books. These books are sold by weight or at fixed rates. This makes them incredibly affordable compared to regular bookstores.
Meet Qamar Saeed. He is known as the King of Daryaganj among his fellow booksellers. He proudly displays his official document. It marks the day he secured his spot in the bazaar. He was just eighteen then. He has spent forty years at the market. He even served as President of the Association of book vendors.
These vendors see their community as unique. They believe selling books is more sophisticated than selling everyday goods. Pride and passion are common sentiments. Vendors often speak of their attachment to the patri and the book business.
Many booksellers have intriguing backgrounds. They might have been freelance photographers, Urdu lecturers or NDMC officials. Some were rickshaw pullers or newspaper hawkers. Their diverse paths converge at this literary hub.
The market faced challenges in 2019. The North Delhi Municipal Corporation ordered its shutdown. It was later relocated to Mahila Haat. The booksellers continued to protest for a return to their original location. Covid-19 further impacted their livelihoods.
Despite these challenges, the spirit of Daryaganj Sunday Book Market endures. It is a testament to the resilience and passion of its vendors. They offer affordable books and cultivate a love for reading in the community.
The Daryaganj Sunday Book Market is more than just a place to buy books. It is a place to connect with stories. It is a place to discover hidden literary gems. It is a place where the past and present intertwine through the love of reading. It is a vital part of Delhi’s cultural heritage. It continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of its booksellers and the enthusiasm of its patrons.