Ghalib’s haveli gets a new lease of life

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A section of Ghalib’s haveli that has been refurbished and is open to the public

The chandeliers twinkled, poetry filled the air, and Mirza Ghalib was present — in spirit.
Indian Council For Cultural Relations has put together an exhibition-cum-museum on Ghalib at Ballimaran, Chandni Chowk. The ICCR completed the process of refurbishing Ghalib’s haveli and is showcasing his photos, clothes, letters and books.

The inaugural evening had some eminent poets reciting Ghalib’s poems, dressed in elaborate costumes reminiscent of the Mughal era.
The highlight of the night was a performance by noted ghazal singer, Imran Khan. “The haveli has been renovated well. It’s an honour to recite Ghalib’s poems.”
Famous Kathak dancer, Uma Sharma, who spearheaded the campaign to refurbish Ghalib’s home, said, “When I first visited the haveli 16 years back, it was in a bad state. I met the owner and made up my mind to do something to preserve it. Tonight the haveli looks alive. Suresh Goel and Pavan Varma have contributed immensely and I admire the extensive work done. The place has been beautifully lit up with chandeliers and the curtains have been dry-cleaned. It has been made open to the public.”
Born and brought up in Delhi, Uma Sharma feels Delhi has changed tremendously. “Delhi is no longer safe and clean. Chandni Chowk should remain the way it is but cleaner. It is too crowded now with tempos and cars. Chandni Chowk had a certain smell to it which I would like to bring back with similar projects.”
The Delhi government along with some politicians are working on building and cleaning the roads, which lead to the haveli. “Delhi government has been a great help and we are trying to clean the roads nearby. We are working on improving the overall outlook,” said an MLA of the area.