The 'Qutub Minar' complex. This is the worlds tallest brick minaret (not in image above) at 72 metres and was completed in 1386. The structure even today towers over everything in Delhi. You can imagine the affect it would have had in the 14th century! It was commissioned by the first Muslim ruler of Delhi and was designed to showcase the might and awe of Islam
Fine filligree 'Jalee' ornamental work in the Tomb of Humayun. Notice the Islamic motifs. Islam forbids any representations of life thus the reason why much of Islamic architecture is dressed in elaborate geometric motifs
View of the Grand Gate from Humayun's Tomb. The gardens that surround the Tomb are a common component of Islamic architecture. Gardens represent paradise; what better way to accommodate a mausoleum then in man's image of heaven
Humayun's tomb as seen from inside the main chamber. Notice the ghost hiding on the left hand side...
Street life courtesy of Delhi's vibrant, crazy and chronically congested (with everything that life can throw at you) Chadni Chowk!
The faithful performing their 'ablution' (ritual washing) in the outside pool in preparation for prayer in the Jamia Masjid
I spotted this kid attempting to feed the cat. The family of four reside within the walls of the Jamia Masjid and live on handouts from the faithful. Mosques and Temples in India frequently contain a regular mob of alm seekers. Alms are especially free flowing on religious days!
The Jamia Masjid has a large population of pigeons that live in the minarets and turrets of the mosque structure. The pigeons also receive 'alms' in the form of seeds that are thrown on the main prayer area. As a result bird shit is common but an army of busy and efficient cleaners ensure that the area is clean during prayer times!
Kids will play wherever they are regardless. Play is an integral part of growing up and these are the lucky few who at least have a chance at play - many are not so lucky and are found begging on the streets
Rickshaws pulled by bare footed humans (Tanna Rickshaws) are banned in Delhi though they are still prevalent in Kolkata. Bicycle rickshaws are considered more ethical and are still common. The Government has considered banning these but has met opposition from the rickshaw pullers themselves; many of whom feel that they would starve if there livelihood was taken away
View from inside the 'Red Fort' (lal qila). This is now a carcass of it's once former glorious self. Much of it having been destroyed in the Indian Mutiny
Moghul style arches in the Red Fort. The red sandstone used to construct these and other structures was procured from Agra
The disabled have it tough in India. Still, at least this wonderful contraption allows the owner to move about. Notice his withered right leg
Spice merchant in Chadni Chowk. The smells of the spice market attack the nostrils as you stroll through the mazes and narrow alleys that snake off the main bazaar
Street life in Delhi. The photography in Delhi has a natural dusty look thanks to the air! There is a constant haze above Delhi that the sun barely penetrates thus imparting everything with a wonderful 'sepia' tinge. This is great for photography but not so great for the lungs!
Front facade of Humayun's Tomb. Notice the human figures in the corner. I included them in the frame to give the structure a sense of scale
The Mughal emperor Humayans Tomb was completed in 1570. It was commissioned by his widow Hamida Banu Begum. It was the first building in the Sub-continent to incorporate Persian - Islamic styles. Later on the architecture of the mausoleum was adapted and improved to give the crowning glory of the Mughals or their Magnus Opus as you might want to call it: The Taj Mahal
