From the archive record
Dariba Kalan came into existence during the time of the most royal Mughal ruler, Shahjahan. The market was specially set up for the rich to splurge in precious gems, gold, silver, diamonds and much more. It eventually developed as a major centre of trade for rare stones and the finest pearls. Dariba Kalan, however, lost its affluence after witnessing the “bloody massacre” that took place in 1739 in the streets of Shahjahanabad. The atrocious Persian invader not only murdered hundreds of civilians but also looted away all the shops. Despite being robbed of its glory, Dariba Kalan rose back to business and became the ever-popular jewel street of Delhi. Today this place is especially visited by tourists and foreign clients from all over. The entire lane constitutes of about 50 shops selling e