A Passion That Began in 2002
Marwah’s journey with the Delhi Metro began on December 25, 2002, the day the city’s first metro line started operations. On that historic day, he took the inaugural ride to Shahdara with his son.
Getting a ticket was not easy during the launch rush.
“We couldn’t get a ticket, so we bought a card for the first trip,” Marwah recalled. “After that, whenever new extensions were added, I tried to collect the cards and travel as one of the first passengers. I’ve managed to maintain this passion until today.”
What started as a one-time experience gradually turned into a lifelong tradition.
Inspiration from Japan
Interestingly, Marwah’s fascination with metro systems began long before Delhi got one.
He lived in Japan between 1988 and 1989 and was deeply impressed by how metro trains smoothly ran through residential neighborhoods.
“While living in Japan, I was fascinated to see trains passing through colonies. I used to wonder when something like that would start in Delhi,” he said in an interview with Press Trust of India.
When the Delhi Metro finally began operations in 2002, Marwah didn’t just ride it—he made it part of his life.
Continuing the Tradition in 2026
On March 8, Marwah once again kept his tradition alive.
He boarded the first train on the newly opened route from Deepali Chowk to Majlis Park and also travelled on the new section connecting Majlis Park to Maujpur Babarpur.
The new services began at 3 PM after being inaugurated by Narendra Modi.
Carrying his carefully maintained albums, Marwah was among the first passengers to step into the train—just like he has done for more than two decades.
A Lifetime of Metro Memories
Over the years, Marwah has built an impressive collection of metro memorabilia.
His albums contain first-day smart cards from every new line, along with photographs, newspaper clippings, and certificates documenting each milestone.
According to News18, his dedication has even earned him recognition in the Limca Book of Records.
The latest card issued at Deepali Chowk became a special addition to his collection.
“This card makes it my 42nd one,” Marwah said proudly. “I hope I can continue this tradition until the 25th anniversary of the Delhi Metro.”
For most people, the metro is simply a daily commute.
For Anil Marwah, it’s a journey filled with memories, passion, and a tradition that has lasted more than 24 years.
