Twenty-seven thousand souls. That’s the population of Dichaon Kalan a bustling village in Delhi’s South West district. Founded in the 13th century Dichaon Kalan has witnessed centuries of change. It stands as a testament to resilience and growth. Today it’s known as the “Gobhi Wala Gaon” India’s cauliflower village. Its fields produce 98% of Delhi’s cauliflower a testament to the village’s agricultural prowess.
Dichaon Kalan wasn’t always known for its cauliflower. For a time it was infamous for something far less savory. Beginning in 1992 the village became a battleground for rival gangs. The Krishan Pehlawan gang controlled Dichaon Kalan while the Anoop-Balraj gang held sway in neighboring Mitraon. Their feud stemmed from a property dispute escalating into a bloody conflict claiming many lives.
Krishan Pehlawan a powerful figure in the village eventually entered politics. His brother Bharat Singh became a councillor and later an MLA. Their influence was immense but it also brought more violence. Following a property dispute Bharat Singh was murdered. The violence highlights a darker side of Dichaon Kalan’s history. Yet the village perseveres.
Despite the past Dichaon Kalan remains vibrant. It boasts several temples schools and even a government veterinary hospital. Children play in parks. The rhythmic sound of trucks carrying cauliflower to Delhi’s markets is a daily symphony. This is Dichaon Kalan a place where the past and present intertwine. A testament to resilience amidst conflict. The legacy of cauliflower farmers and gang violence coexist here. A unique blend of agricultural bounty and a notorious past. Dichaon Kalan is far more than just a village. It is a story waiting to be explored.