Saket: The Cultural Hub of Modern Delhi

• Helloनमस्ते
  [namaste]
• Goodbyeअलविदा
  [alvida]
• Yesहां
  [haan]
• Noनहीं
  [nahi]
• Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [krupaya]
• Thank youधन्यवाद
  [dhanyavaad]
• Excuse me/Sorryमाफ़ कीजिए
  [maaf keejiye]
• How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। आप?
  [theek hoon. aap?]
• Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोल सकते हैं?
  [kya aap angrezi bol sakte hain?]
• I don't understandमुझे समझ में नहीं आया
  [mujhe samajh mein nahi aaya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनू देखना चाहूँ
  [krupaya menu dekhna chahoon]
• I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता
  [main maans nahi khaata]
• Cheers!चियर्स!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया भुगतान करना है
  [krupaya bhugtan karna hai]

• Help!बचाओ!
  [bachao!]
• Go away!चले जाओ!
  [chale jao!]
• Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [police ko bulaao!]
• Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [doctor ko bulaao!]
• I'm lostमैं खो गया हूँ
  [main kho gaya hoon]
• I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [mujhe bimari hai]

• I'd like to buy...मैं खरीदना चाहूँगा...
  [main khareedna chahunga...]
• I'm just lookingमैं बस देख रहा हूँ
  [main bas dekh raha hoon]
• How much is it?यह कितना है?
  [yah kitna hai?]
• That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [yah bahut mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?समय क्या है?
  [samay kya hai?]
• It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [ek baje hain]
• Half past (10)दस बजकर पंद्रह मिनट हो रहे हैं
  [das bajkar pandrah minut ho rahe hain]
• Morningसुबह
  [subah]
• Afternoonदोपहर
  [dopahar]
• Eveningशाम
  [shaam]
• Yesterdayकल
  [kal]
• Todayआज
  [aaj]
• Tomorrowकल
  [kal]
• 1एक
  [ek]
• 2दो
  [do]
• 3तीन
  [teen]
• 4चार
  [chaar]
• 5पाँच
  [paanch]
• 6छह
  [chhe]
• 7सात
  [saat]
• 8आठ
  [aath]
• 9नौ
  [nau]
• 10दस
  [das]

• Where's a/the...?...कहाँ है?
  [...kahan hai?]
• What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं (नक्शे पर)?
  [kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain (naksha par)?]
• When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [agli (bus) kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (...के लिए)
  [ek ticket (...ke liye)]

Saket is associated with ancient mythology and history, being considered a significant location in the Mahabharata, where the city of 'Saket' is believed to have been established. This connection to one of India's great epics gives the area a deep historical significance, reflecting the confluence of myth and reality in Delhi's ancient landscape.

During the 12th to 16th centuries, Saket was part of the territories ruled by the Delhi Sultanate. This period saw the establishment of various structures and administrative systems in the region. The area was strategically important due to its proximity to the capital, which was shifting through various dynasties, including the Mamluks and the Tughlaqs.

In the 17th century, under Mughal rule, Saket emerged as a notable area for its lush gardens and architectural splendor. The influence of Mughal aesthetics can still be observed in some remnants of the period, contributing to the cultural fabric of modern Saket. The nearby Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the architectural advancements of the time.

The British colonial period brought new urban planning and infrastructure development to Saket. The expansion of railways and roads during this time facilitated easier access to and from the area, laying the groundwork for its contemporary urban landscape. The architecture from this era can still be seen in some colonial-era buildings scattered throughout the neighborhood.

Post-independence, Saket has undergone significant urban development, transforming from a semi-rural area into a bustling urban neighborhood. The establishment of shopping complexes, cultural centers, and educational institutions has turned Saket into a vibrant hub, reflecting the dynamic nature of Delhi as it continues to evolve while retaining its rich historical legacy.

Saket is well-connected to other neighborhoods in Delhi. The nearest metro station is Saket, which is on the Yellow Line of the Delhi Metro. You can reach Saket from Connaught Place in about 30 minutes via the metro. Buses also service the area, with routes from various parts of the city. For those arriving by taxi or rideshare, Saket is approximately 15 kilometers from Indira Gandhi International Airport, taking around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.

Saket is accessible via the Delhi Metro, with the Saket station being the primary hub. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for short distances. The area is pedestrian-friendly, and walking is a great way to explore local markets and parks. Cycling is also an option, with some bike rental services available. Additionally, local buses connect Saket to neighboring areas, but routes may be less frequent.

Saket is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas, particularly near secluded parks. While there aren't specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded places like markets. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid flashing valuables.

In emergencies, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is Max Super Specialty Hospital in Saket. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies are available throughout the neighborhood.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering temples or mosques, remove your shoes and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and 'Namaste' (palms together). Don't assume everyone speaks English. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food but ensure it is prepared in hygienic conditions. Don't refuse food offerings, as this is considered impolite.

To experience Saket like a local, visit the Select Citywalk Mall for shopping and dining, and explore the nearby Garden of Five Senses for a leisurely stroll. Participate in local festivals and events if possible. Engage with street vendors and try their specialties, which often include chaat and other snacks. For a unique experience, visit the Qutub Minar complex nearby, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, and take time to appreciate the architecture and surrounding gardens.