No Old Delhi treats, Ramzan a muted affair this year

The Ramzan treats at Old Delhi’s Jama Masjid area are popular across India, says Akram Qureshi, owner of Al Jawahar and president of Matia Mahal Shopkeepers’ Association. “Par woh raunak toh ab nahi hai… ek khalipan hai,” he says.

“Everyone is praying for the pandemic to end.” This year, the market will not be decorated. “When so many are dying, we can’t be celebrating,” he says. Qureshi has stayed put at his restaurant, a stone’s throw from Jama Masjid, to help police maintain social distancing and guide people to stay indoors.

Most shop owners in the area are home, some for the first time during Ramzan. Haji Imran, who runs a sheermal shop, has also been getting calls for orders. “Usually during Ramzan, we would be at the shop from 10 am till midnight, but this year, we’re spending it at home.”

Meanwhile, Asgher Bakery, a 70-year-old shop known for its biscuits and rusks, is opening for three hours every day. Ameer Sweet House, tucked in the bylanes of Chitli Qabar, has also been opening from 2 to 5 pm. “But we’re only making aloo samosa and pakode this time,” says Haji Ruzaib Hassan, the owner.