Archive

December 8, 2014

Browsing

“I will leave my dream college (say LSR) to be in North Campus.”

“I will take Maths (Hons) instead of English but I will be in North Campus.”

“I am a Delhi-ite but I wish to stay in North Campus.”

We everyday come across statements like these. North Campus, University of Delhi houses over 100000 students from different colleges, courses and of-course backgrounds. With their efficacious desire to stay here, students of the university strive to relish their three years of graduation here. 

To all the newcomers and for all the old sleepy heads, here are seven things one should do in north campus before graduating. Most of you haven’t tried all of this, I bet.

1. Attend Virgin Tree Pooja at Hindu College on Valentines’ Day

Have you ever seen condoms hanging on a tree? This ritual at Hindu College gives you an opportunity to worship a different celebrity each year (known as Damdami Mata) and it is believed that whosoever attends the pooja of this sex goddess, loses his/her virginity within six months.  Water filled condoms are also thrown at the crowd so that the “Holy water” could reach everyone.

“Jai damdami Mata,
Maiya jai damdami mata

Tumko dinbhar dekhun -2
Raat bhar so nahi pata
Maiya jai damdami mata.”

Video Credits: Wild Films India

2. Watch a movie at Amba Cinema

Most of us rush to Connaught Place and Shamilar Bagh to watch the latest change on big screen, whereas our very own University theatre awaits each one of us. Located near Ghanta Ghar, Amba Cinema houses the best bollywood movies, paralleled with the most entertaining audience. A place where item songs get their deserved attention by rounds of applause and whistling, Amba Cinema is a low-budget affair. The single screen hall runs five shows everyday and usually attracts more crowd for bhai-movies. 

Amba Cinema | Source - sarsonkekhet.com
Amba Cinema | Source – sarsonkekhet.com

Note: Girls, avoid the late night show. And all you firang lovers there, hard luck. Hum toh bhaiya bollywood fan hai.

3. Rent a bicycle from Vishwavidyalaya Metro Station

This can sound like the most boring thing to most of you but this is something everyone should try once. Chilled up winter evening and a cycle ride from Vishwavidyalaya – it isn’t sounding like a bad combination. If you have someone with you, nothing better.

Its time to ride | Source: skyscrapercity.com
Its time to ride | Source: skyscrapercity.com

4. Visit the overrated, not-so-haunting Ridge at midnight

For those who have been here for some time now, must have heard of the ghost stories at ridge. Most of the experienced ones, boast of returning back alive and the left overs whine over their PG timings but if you get a chance, do visit the ghosts there. They won’t treat you bad, believe me.

Haunting? This is the maximum it can get | Source: i2.wp.com
Haunting? This is the maximum it can get | Source: i2.wp.com

5. Shout, “I-I NSUI” at least once – Go take part in election campaigns

If you missed this, you are not a North-Campusite (no word like this exists). The most happening event at Delhi University’s north campus is the elections. Be it on terms of wasting more paper or fighting for students, there is a race for attention. And who doesn’t want attention? Go take part and you never know you are featured on DU Beat! (Sounds fun, right?)

Like a boss! | Source - news.statetimes.in
Like a boss! | Source – news.statetimes.in

6. 2AM  – Chai and Paranthas at Patel Chest

The place not only boasts of some 30 photocopy shops but also the illegal yet delicious business of paranthas and chai all during the night. University that is a home to so many owls, leaves no scope for boredom in the late hours. So if you are habitual of all-nighters (as we call it), please don’t miss this. The home-delievery facility gives you an opportunity to be lazy here.

Aalu. Gobhi, Paneer, Pyaar and Plain | Source - unbelted.net
Aalu. Gobhi, Paneer, Pyaar and Plain | Source – unbelted.net

7. Just walk around, man – Do whatever you want to do!

97% of the students in the North Campus come and leave this holy place without checking out maximum places here. VC lawns, random roads, shady areas, University Stadium, Hindurao Hospital (the surrounding location, I mean), Hudson Lane, some 9654 restaurants and 397 tea stalls – there is a lot to explore. [Disclaimer – The numbers mentioned here have exaggeration associated to them.]

Happy exploring!

Iresh Gupta
[email protected]

With the descending chill at its peak in the capital, woolen cardigans and leather jackets out and no examination stress at stake, Delhi University students crave their share of getaways and vacations. So here we a have a list of places, tailor made suiting every traveler’s interest in providing the perfect winter celebration ensuring a hangover of beautiful memories and experiences on return.

Goa

Always the first option on the list, this place beholds a surreal combination of serenity and euphoria. Night parties, beautiful beaches, crowd from across the world and delectable cuisines are for sure going to lift your spirits up, especially if you enjoy beaches. Christmas and New Year are always jam packed with gigs, high profile parties and what not guaranteeing you the best display and visual treats in the city. Moreover, the place also boasts of a strong Portuguese historical foundation and the churches across the town are bound to leave you startled. Make sure you book in advance!

Palolem beach in Goa
Palolem beach in Goa

Rajasthan

The desert is always easier to visit during the winters. With wonderful heritage cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Pushkar boasting of traditional Rajasthani culture and taking a camel ride at the Thar Desert, this can be an enriching weekend getaway for you. The place also ensures a pleasant climate during winters and the folk culture, consisting of traditional dance and puppet show must not be missed.

Jaisalmer in Rajasthan | Source: Natural High Safari
Jaisalmer in Rajasthan | Source: Natural High Safari

Andaman and Nicobar

Another great option for you beach lovers cum chill haters! This is a place where you can relax and unwind, unlike Goa. So if you enjoy sitting by the beach and letting the tranquility soak in, this is the place to be. Moreover, the place also boasts of an exotic wildlife especially the aquatic species. For adventure and thrill there are activities like snorkeling, dolphin watch etc.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands | Source: Incredible India Tours
Andaman & Nicobar Islands | Source: Incredible India Tours

North East India

This usually unexplored and less talked about travel destination can turn out to be your best travel decision. Hospitable locals, authentic cuisines and a pinch of cultural differences, your new travel venture can teach you a lot of wonderful things about this beautiful place. Gangtok, Shillong, Lachung and North Cachar hills are a must visit. For all you adventure seekers wanting to try a hand at skiing, add Lachung and Phuni Valley to your list.

Assam in picture | Source: MDB
Assam in picture | Source: MDB

Gulmarg

If Delhi winter does not satisfy you enough, then it’s time to head up north to the most beautiful valley of Kashmir and then head to Gulmarg further up. With temperatures going below -5*C at night, this is a place where you can enjoy hot tomato soup in the day and your favorite rum at night.

Gulmarg's view in December |Source: TripAdvisor
Gulmarg’s view in December |Source: TripAdvisor

Apart from cozy guest houses, snow and beautiful natural wonders this place also opens up for skiing in the winters.

Amitoj Singh
[email protected]