Nothing lasts forever, not even places that once symbolized a city's identity. This sentiment resonates deeply in Delhi when you step into Ansal Plaza.
This was the capital's first mall, opened in South Delhi in 1999, an entirely new concept for a city unfamiliar with the 'weekend mall culture.' For anyone who grew up around DLF Promenade or Select Citywalk, the significance of Ansal Plaza may remain elusive.
A Favorite Spot for Dating
Ansal Plaza was the introduction of mall culture to Delhi. The city’s first Shoppers Stop opened here, and McDonald's was more than just a fast-food joint; it was a favored dating spot. The amphitheater often hosted concerts and movie promotions, while Music World catered to a generation yet to discover streaming.
Journalist Debashree Mohanty fondly remembers watching it materialize, brick by brick. Her father, then a senior bureaucrat, lived in government housing at nearby Hudco Place. She reminisces, "When Ansal announced a mall within this gated complex, it felt like the center of the world had arrived at our doorstep."
Source: aajtak
There was McDonald’s, Shoppers Stop, shoe stores, and a recognizable ethnic wear brand. There was also a pub for the emerging 'party culture,' but the real draw was the central atrium, doubling as a performance space. Debashree recalls concerts there, especially the grand event when Palash and Euphoria performed.
More than a shopping complex, Ansal Plaza was a hangout spot and symbol of a new urban lifestyle for the youth growing up at that time. It was the first public space for leisure and enjoyment.
India Today recently reported that Noida's once-famous 'The Great India Place,' better known as GIP, now lies almost deserted, a shadow of its former bustling self. This made me ponder. What became of Delhi’s first mall? Thus, began my quest to uncover the fate of Ansal Plaza.
Source: aajtak
Now Resembles a 'Ghost Town'
The path to Ansal Plaza is dimly lit, with no signboards in sight. The once-bustling parking lot is now nearly empty. Inside, the eerie silence is palpable. McDonald's and KFC are among the few outlets that still attract some footfall. There’s a gaming arcade called 'Game Palacio,' but its patronage is sparse.
Aside from a few staff, security guards, and delivery executives, the mall feels abandoned. The escalators don’t work, restrooms are in disrepair, and the elevators can’t be trusted. Certain sections seem half-renovated, while others appear neglected. Stains from betel leaves mar the surfaces, and the emptiness makes using the stairs a haunting experience.
Footfall Has Dwindled
On the upper floors are government offices and some private companies that add to the building's functional, rather than retail, nature. A pub caretaker, who wished to remain anonymous, confessed that business barely survives. "We pay about 3.5 lakh rupees in rent. With so few visitors, it's tough to make ends meet. The elevators malfunction, escalators are off. The management doesn’t address our concerns. We’re just scraping by."
Source: aajtak
Security is another major issue, exacerbated by a liquor store inside the premises. "We've requested separate entries and exits. Not everyone visiting has good intentions, making it feel unsafe," he adds.
These fears aren’t unwarranted. During my visit, people’s stares and comments felt unsettling. The deserted corridors, obscured stairways, and lone escalators lend the place an oddly haunting atmosphere. Retailers concede business is negligible. Many state plainly, "There are no customers here." A jewelry store employee credits their survival to a loyal old clientele, not walk-ins.
There are spas operating here, but no one will speak on record about them. While Ansal Plaza lost its luster long ago, it was granted a 'second life' in 2016. Relaunched with 16 new brands, including Decathlon as the main draw, this revival proved short-lived. Within a year, things deteriorated. The Decathlon store itself shuttered around 2023, and the rest is history.
Why Did It Fail?
Some blame competition. Newer malls in Saket and Vasant Kunj, with multiplexes, expansive food courts, and superior infrastructure, outshined Ansal Plaza post-relaunch. Others attribute its downfall to management neglect.
Timing was a factor, too. Its 2016 relaunch coincided with the economic disruption of demonetization, crippling consumer spending. Or perhaps, as some still whisper today, "Is it cursed with a gift’s curse?"
