Yesterday, my family and I embarked on a special outing to Connaught Place, a bustling commercial hub in the heart of Delhi. The purpose of our visit was to celebrate my mother’s birthday, and we wanted to make it a memorable day for her. To add to the joyous occasion, we also invited my paternal aunt, as her presence always completes our family.
With our spirits high, we set off towards Connaught Place. On our way, we couldn’t help but notice the vibrant posters and banners adorning the streets. They were announcing the upcoming G20 meeting, a gathering of 20 influential countries, which was set to take place in Delhi. The authorities had taken extra measures to ensure that the streets of Connaught Place looked its best for the international delegates who would soon arrive.
Another noticeable change was the absence of beggars on the streets. In an effort to create a safe and welcoming environment for the G20 meeting at Pragati Maidan on 9 September, the authorities had relocated the beggars to a designated area. This step not only ensured the security of the delegates but also provided a temporary solution for the marginalised individuals who rely on begging as their means of survival.
Our first destination was the Pracheen Hanuman Mandir, a renowned Hindu temple in Connaught Place, known for its ancient history. It holds great significance for my mother as she is a devoted follower of Lord Hanuman. According to popular beliefs, the famous Bhakti saint Tulsidas ji had visited this temple during his trip to Delhi and experienced the divine presence of Bajrang Bali, the child form of Lord Hanuman.
Mesmerised by this encounter, Tulsidas ji composed the Hanuman Chalisa, a sacred hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman. As we entered the temple, the serene atmosphere and the enchanting chants filled our hearts with tranquility and devotion. We offered our prayers to Lord Hanuman, seeking his blessings for strength, courage and purity of our souls.
After the temple visit, our appetites led us to the famous Jain Chawal Wale, a local eatery known for its delectable Rajma Chawal. We eagerly ordered two plates and savoured every bite. The aroma and taste of the freshly cooked meal were simply irresistible, leaving us fully satisfied and energised for the rest of our expedition. As we enjoyed our meal together, laughter and conversations filled the air, creating beautiful memories that would forever be etched in our hearts. We also had cola flavour ice popsicles which gave us a temporary relief from the hot and sunny day.
Next, we proceeded to Gurudwara Sri Bangla Sahib, a significant place of worship for the Sikh community and a popular tourist spot. This 17th-century shrine is dedicated to the memory of Guru Har Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru. The magnificent architecture and serene ambiance of the gurudwara immediately captivated us. While entering inside, covering the head was mandatory and they had dedicated volunteers and staffs who ensures that everyone wears a headscarf available in the boxes.
We immersed ourselves in the soothing prayers, feeling a sense of unity and spirituality in the air. The langar, a community kitchen serving free meals to all visitors, showcased the values of equality and selfless service that Sikhism upholds. The highlight of our visit was the huge holy pond, where we witnessed the playful movements of colourful fishes and saw children joyfully dipping their feet in the water.
Our journey continued as we visited the Sacred Heart Cathedral Catholic Church, an architectural marvel and one of my favourite places in Connaught Place. This historic church, built in the 1930s, exudes grandeur and tranquility in equal measure. The stillness of the church was punctuated only by the soft flickering of a candle, casting a warm glow on the statue of Jesus Christ.
In that moment, we felt a deep sense of peace and connection, as if the worries and stresses of the outside world had momentarily faded away. Upon stepping outside, we lit candles, illuminating our hopes and aspirations. As we prepared to leave, the melodious sound of the 5 p.m prayer bell echoed through the church, creating a magical moment we will always cherish.
Our final stop was the TTD Tirupati Balaji Temple, where we sought the blessings of Lord Venkateshwara. The temple’s architecture is a true marvel, showcasing the Dravidian style with intricate carvings and sculptures. One of the highlights of our visit, was participating in the various rituals and ceremonies conducted at the temple. The priests, dressed in traditional attire, performed the sacred rituals with utmost devotion and precision. The rhythmic chants and the fragnance of incense filled the air, creating a truly ethereal experience.
Moreover, the temple also offers Annadanam program which provides free meals to thousands of devotees every day, promoting the spirit of selfless service and compassion. It is believed that attending the annual Brahmotsavam festival and witnessing the grandeur of the deities’ processions brings immense blessings and good fortune.
In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, places of worship like these serves as a reminder of the eternal presence of a higher power. Our visit to Connaught Place was not just a journey of physical exploration but a soulful experience that rejuvenated our spirits and left us with a sense of profound gratitude.
As the day drew to a close, we bid farewell to Connaught Place, cherishing the memories we had created together. Celebrating my mother’s birthday was truly an unforgettable experience, that will forever hold a special place in our hearts, reminding us of the importance of love, faith and togetherness.
Device used for photography- Iphone XS Max.
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