Why women feel safer on these night walks in New Delhi

Anoushka Jain, founder of the community, began this initiative in 2019. Armed with a Masters in History, she was passionate about sharing her deep love for the subject with others. “This is an organisation that reminds people about the hidden history engraved all around them. Raat Ke Afsane is one of our much-appreciated heritage walks. We visit different monuments like Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb and Safdarjung Tomb, after sunset, and explore the place literally in a different light,” says Jain.

One of the unusual aspects of Jain’s initiative is that it’s centred around women and for women. Their Ladies Night Walks are planned so that women can enjoy and experience the city without feeling unsafe. Their walk titles too are a salute to women – Badass Begums for Chandni Chowk, Tawaifs and Kothas for the specific one around Old Delhi.

Indians historical legacy is a testament to its glorious past, from the magnificent Mughal architecture to the intricate designs of ancient temples. Unfortunately, the preservation and celebration of this history often take a back seat amidst the fast-paced modern life. This is where EIH steps in, with a mission to revive and relish India’s historical treasures.

Ilma Saifi, 22, the project co-ordinator of the group and an undergraduate researcher, says, “I got to know about Enroute Indian history through Linkedin and as a heritage mapper, I was able to get well researched heritage modules from EIH that added on to my understanding and research analysis, now as a project coordinator I get the opportunity to write articles in many fields like heritage, education, media, art etc. Enroute also helps me connect with people of education from various fields which adds insights to my areas of research as well”

Jain says, “Five years ago, the entire scenario was quite different from how history was viewed. I think the Covid pandemic has really helped by making people more aware of how history has been seen in our day to day life.” EIH has a dedicated community of heritage lovers. Some of them are regulars who attend these walks at least thrice a month. While most of them are planned on weekends, there are also customised walks done by EIH.

Tickets for these walks are available on Bookmyshow and the prices range from Rs 550 to Rs 1,000. They also do digital workshops for Rs 300. The details are updated on their Instagram handle enroute_indian_history_.

Harshita Gupta is an intern with The Indian Express