Delhi Through Smells: A Sensory Walk

A sensory walk exploring memory and place in Old Delhi.

We often remember cities through their food, people, language or heritage. But what about their smells? The scent of freshly ground spices, incense outside a place of worship, or a damp alley after rain can tell us as much about a neighbourhood as its streets and buildings.

This November, we invite you to explore part of your city through smell. Through guided observations and sensory exercises, we’ll explore the memories and emotions that scents bring up.

Smells also tell stories of labour, migration, culture, and inequality. Why are some celebrated as part of a neighbourhood’s character, while others are labelled dirty or undesirable? What do these reactions reveal about how we understand the city?

Through writing, drawing, colouring and discussion, we’ll channel our sensory observations into creative exercises and reflections.

What to Expect

A guided sensory walk through Old Delhi.

Exercises exploring the memories and emotions associated with different smells.

Lots of snacks Old Delhi snacks

Conversations about smell, culture, labour, and belonging.

An activity using writing, drawing, and guided prompts.

A closing sharing circle to exchange observations and reflections.

Location: Exact location will be shared a day prior to the walk