On the evening of April 30, 2025, a significant fire broke out at Dilli Haat, a renowned open-air market in New Delhi celebrated for its vibrant handicrafts and diverse regional cuisines. The Delhi Fire Service received an emergency call at approximately 8:55 PM and promptly dispatched 13 fire tenders to the scene to combat the blaze. Firefighters acted swiftly, bringing the situation under control and preventing the flames from spreading further across the bustling market area.
While no injuries were reported, the fire inflicted substantial damage on several food stalls and shops, leading to significant financial losses for vendors. One stall owner noted that the fire spread rapidly before assistance arrived, underscoring the challenges faced during the incident.
Dilli Haat, located in Kidwai Nagar, is a cultural hub that offers artisans from across India a platform to sell handcrafted products and serves as a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The market’s unique blend of traditional crafts and regional cuisines makes it a cherished spot in the city.
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire. Initial reports suggest an electrical short circuit may be responsible, but official confirmation is pending.
This incident at Dilli Haat highlights the importance of stringent fire safety measures, especially in markets and public spaces that attract large crowds. Ensuring regular safety audits and adherence to fire safety norms is crucial to prevent such unfortunate events in the future.
Cause of the Fire
The fire that broke out on the evening of April 30 could have been caused by a small gas leak near the museum dedicated to the late President A P J Abdul Kalam — a wire from one of the many electric poles with trails of wiring, a carelessly thrown cigarette butt, or a short circuit. In the constant chaotic condition in which Dilli Haat is maintained, the conflagration was not surprising.
Read more to know more about what is going on at Dilli Haat right now.
What is Dilli Haat? A Cultural Kaleidoscope in the Heart of Delhi
Dilli Haat is more than just a marketplace—it’s a vibrant celebration of India’s cultural diversity. Located in the heart of New Delhi, Dilli Haat is an open-air craft bazaar and food plaza that showcases the best of traditional Indian arts, handicrafts, and cuisine from across the country. Operated by the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC), it was established with the goal of promoting local artisans and preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.
A Unique Blend of Culture and Commerce
Unlike ordinary street markets, Dilli Haat is designed like a traditional village haat (weekly market), complete with small thatched roof cottages and kiosks. However, it offers more than just a rustic experience—it provides artisans from remote parts of India a platform to sell their products directly to consumers, cutting out middlemen and ensuring fair prices.
Here, you can find a wide variety of handcrafted goods such as:
- Madhubani paintings from Bihar
- Pashmina shawls from Kashmir
- Terracotta pottery from West Bengal
- Brass and metal crafts from Rajasthan
- Bamboo and cane products from Northeast India
Each stall at Dilli Haat is allotted to artisans on a rotational basis, typically for 15 days. This ensures a fresh and dynamic range of products every time you visit.
Entry Fees and Timings
Dilli Haat is open all days of the week from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Entry fees are nominal—typically around ₹30 for Indian adults and ₹100 for foreign tourists.