The library that every Delhi reader knows
Nestled within Delhi’s bustling Khan Market is Bahrisons Bookstore, a literary landmark that has welcomed generations of readers for 73 years. With nearly 90,000 books lining its towering shelves, the library continues to charm visitors with its old-world warmth, handwritten recommendations, and timeless love of books.
A story born of partition
Harrisons’ story begins in 1947 during partition. Balraj Bahri, then 19, migrated from Malakwal in present-day Pakistan, while Bhag Gulyani, 16, arrived in Delhi from Dera Ismail Khan. Like millions of refugees rebuilding their lives after displacement, the two families settled in Kingsway camp in Delhi.
How did Balraj and Baaj fall in love?
In early 1948, Balraj and Bhag met at Kingsway Camp and quickly fell in love. While Bhag was working as a junior clerk in the Ministry of Rehabilitation, Balraj took up odd jobs to support his family. Sometimes they would meet after work at the camp, and on special days, Balraj would bring jasmine flowers for Baaj from India Gate.
Birth of Bahrainis
Around 1953, Balraj heard that shops in Khan Market were being set aside for refugees. With the help of his employer, he acquired a small shop and opened a bookstore in Harrisons. What started as a humble bookstore eventually became one of Delhi’s most popular literary venues.
A marriage built on books
Balraj and Bag married in 1955 and devoted their lives to books. While Balraj carefully built the library’s collection through conversations with readers, publishers and authors, Bhag supported the family through her salary. Every rupee earned from the store went back into the growing Bahrisons company.
Booksellers who became legends
Some Bahrisons employees have spent decades in the store. Mithilesh Singh, who joined nearly 27 years ago, has helped readers including Ratan Tata, Kapil Sibal and William Dalrymple. Booksellers like Alam and Shafiq have built loyal customer bases and are often treated as personal literary consultants via speed dial.
Bahrainis today
From a single refugee-run bookstore in Khan Market, Bahrisons has evolved into multiple stores across the country. Today, the company is run by the next generation – Anuj Bahri and his wife Rajni – who continue to maintain its literary spirit.
The personal touch that still exists today
One tradition introduced by Balraj still exists within the Bharisoon – the notebook. Every bookseller carries one for jotting down customers’ requests and reading preferences. To this day, this simple handwritten system remains part of the library’s identity and personal charm.
Bhag returns to the store
After Balraj died in 2016 after six decades of marriage, Bhag returned to the bookstore in her 80s to continue his legacy. Customers often found her sitting with a book in hand, chatting with readers and staff alike. Until her death, she remained actively involved in this work.
More than one library
Stepping into Bahrisons feels like walking through Delhi’s literary history. Beneath its soaring piles lie not only thousands of stories, but also an extraordinary tale of migration, resilience, romance, and a lifelong devotion to books.
