Socio-Spatial Patterns: A Gendered Perspective on the Organic Settlement of Shahjahanabad, Delhi

India beholds an intricate interplay of diverse cultures, communities, and heritage, which has given rise to unique urban forms shaped by the country’s distinctive regional identities. A prime example of this evolution of a distinctive urban character is the historic city of Shahjahanabad in Delhi. Endowed with hundreds of years of history and summed with the organic pattern, it gives rise to unique urban spaces based on social roles and power structures. Gender is one such distinction, as it influences one's everyday life, but it still lacks discussion. Thus, the study aims to unravel the complex dynamics that have shaped the spatial organization of the city over time. Focusing on gendered perspectives, it examines how societal norms influenced the layout and functions of various spaces within the settlement. From bustling markets and religious sites to intimate domestic spaces, the research investigates the roles and interactions of men and women, providing insights into the lived experiences of the community. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach. Through primary surveys, including interviews, observational illustrations, and morphological mapping, alongside methods of identifying blocks in the neighborhood and through secondary research, the paper seeks to present a comprehensive picture of the socio-spatial patterns that have defined the old part of the city. Ultimately, the old urban forms were identified as enabling instead of restricting components in the gender-sensitive urban design. Shedding light on the nuanced interplay of tradition, culture, and the ever-changing nature of the settlement.