The story of the making of the city of New Delhi- its history, the story of its foundation, the making of its plan, the building of its fine buildings, and the making of its great institutions – is of such interest and importance that a complete account of it is well worth the telling. In 1911 the British announced that they would move the capital of the British Raj from Calcutta to Delhi. After a cursory view of the city as it is, it will not be out of place to inquire how it came to be. The city that we now know as New Delhi was envisioned by three British professionals, Lutyens, Baker, and Herbert Baker.
The ancient history of Delhi is as rich and diverse as its architecture, politics, and culture. It has been through many invasions and has seen many different rulers. The ancient history of Delhi starts in 4,000 B.C. when the area was possibly a major trading center for Indo-Aryan peoples. It was a capital city for many empires, including the Mauryan Empire, the Gupta Empire, and the Delhi Sultanate. The Webuff team is highly qualified and accomplished. We are a “best-of-breed” team, with experts in technology
How To Reach New Delhi:
New Delhi, the capital of India, is well connected by air, rail, and road to major cities in India and around the world. Here are some ways to reach New Delhi:
- By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the main airport in New Delhi, and it is well connected to major cities in India and around the world. Several domestic and international airlines operate regular flights to and from New Delhi.
- By Rail: New Delhi Railway Station is one of the busiest railway stations in India, and it is well connected to major cities and towns in India. Several trains run daily between New Delhi and other major cities in India.
- By Road: New Delhi is connected to other major cities in India through a network of national highways and state highways. Several state-run and private buses operate regular services to and from New Delhi to major cities and towns in India.
Once you reach New Delhi, you can use various modes of transport, including taxis, buses, and metro trains, to get around the city. The Delhi Metro is a convenient and efficient way to travel within the city, with several lines covering different parts of the city.
Historical Importance Of Delhi:
Delhi, the capital of India, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. Here are some of the historical significance and importance of Delhi:
- Seat of Power: Delhi has been the seat of power for several empires and dynasties that ruled over India, including the Mughals, the Khiljis, the Tughlaqs, and the British. It was the capital of the Mughal Empire and the British Raj and remains the capital of India to this day.
- Cultural Diversity: Delhi is a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and traditions. Over the centuries, various rulers and empires that ruled over Delhi have left their mark on the city’s architecture, art, and cuisine, making it a unique and vibrant city.
- Architectural Marvels: Delhi is home to several architectural marvels, including the Qutub Minar, the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and the Jama Masjid. These monuments reflect the city’s rich history and cultural heritage and are significant tourist attractions.
- Freedom Struggle: Delhi played a crucial role in India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule. The city was the site of several historic events, including the Dandi March, the Quit India Movement, and the Indian National Army’s trial at the Red Fort.
- Political Importance: Delhi is the political center of India, with the Parliament, the Prime Minister’s Office, and several other government offices located in the city. Delhi is also the hub of the country’s media and entertainment industry, making it a significant center of influence.
Overall, Delhi’s historical importance lies in its rich and diverse cultural heritage, its status as the political and cultural center of India, and its contribution to the country’s freedom struggle.
Modern Delhi is two cities: Old Delhi and New Delhi:
Yes, that is correct. Delhi, the capital of India, is often referred to as two cities – Old Delhi and New Delhi – as they represent two distinct eras of the city’s history.
Old Delhi, also known as Shahjahanabad, was founded by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. It was the capital of the Mughal Empire and served as the center of Islamic culture in India. Old Delhi is characterized by its narrow lanes, bustling bazaars, and historic monuments such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Chandni Chowk. It is famous for its food, particularly its street food, which is a popular attraction for tourists.
Old Delhi is a medieval web of narrow, crowded streets woven beneath the Red Fort’s imposing walls which were built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Both are must-see attractions for tourists but are separated by a chasm of time and culture.
Being a center of trade, culture, and business, Delhi was often a target of foreign invaders. The city was held under the control of successive Muslim dynasties such as the Lodhi Dynasty, the Tughlaq dynasty, and the Mughal Empire. The city was often the center of rebellion against their rule. However, the Muslim dynasties of Delhi were also known to patronize the arts, allowing the city to flourish.
The Mughal Empire had been in existence since 1556, with most of its reign under the rule of Akbar, the great Mughal ruler. The creation of the Mughal Empire was one of the greatest achievements in world history. The empire was created from the disparate and fragmented states of northern India and the Indian subcontinent. It had existed for over 300 years and was the most powerful empire in the world.
New Delhi
New Delhi, on the other hand, was built by the British in the early 20th century when they decided to move the capital from Kolkata to Delhi. New Delhi is characterized by its wide avenues, sprawling government buildings, and modern architecture. Some of the famous landmarks of New Delhi include the India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and the Parliament House.
India’s capital New Delhi was inaugurated on the 11th of December 1931. This was no ordinary inauguration though. The New Delhi quarter was the brainchild of British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. It was decided to build a new capital city for India. The city was to be an impressive symbol of imperial power and grandeur. The British government also wanted it to be a fitting adornment to its new capital city, New Delhi. India’s capital New Delhi was inaugurated on the 11th of December 1931.
Both Old Delhi and New Delhi offer a unique and contrasting experience of the city. While Old Delhi offers a glimpse of the city’s rich cultural heritage, New Delhi represents the city’s modern and cosmopolitan side. Together, they make Delhi a vibrant and exciting destination to visit.
15 Interesting Facts About Delhi:
Here are 15 interesting facts about Delhi:
- Delhi is the second most populous city in India after Mumbai.
- Delhi has been continuously inhabited for over 2,500 years.
- Delhi is the capital of India and has been the seat of power for several empires and dynasties that ruled over India, including the Mughals, the Khiljis, the Tughlaqs, and the British.
- Delhi is the hub of the country’s political, cultural, and economic activities.
- Delhi is known for its street food, particularly its chaat, paranthas, and chole bhature.
- The Lotus Temple in Delhi is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world, with over 70 million visitors since it opened in 1986.
- The Red Fort in Delhi was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
- Delhi has the largest number of registered vehicles in India, with over 10 million vehicles on its roads.
- Delhi has one of the highest road densities in India, with over 1,000 kilometers of roads per 100 square kilometers.
- Delhi is home to the largest wholesale spice market in Asia, the Khari Baoli market.
- Delhi has the second-largest metro system in India after Kolkata, with a total length of over 389 kilometers.
- Delhi has a unique mix of modern and traditional architecture, with landmarks such as the Qutub Minar, the India Gate, and the Lotus Temple.
- The National Museum in Delhi houses some of the most important artifacts from India’s rich cultural heritage, including the famous Indus Valley Civilization‘s Harappan seals.
- The Delhi Durbar, held in 1911, marked the transfer of the capital from Kolkata to Delhi and was attended by King George V and Queen Mary.
- Delhi has a rich literary tradition, with several famous writers and poets, including Mirza Ghalib, Rabindranath Tagore, and Khushwant Singh, hailing from the city.
20 Hisorical Monuments To Visit In Delhi:
Here are 20 historical monuments in Delhi:
- Red Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Mughal power in India.
- Qutub Minar – A 73-meter tall tower built in the 12th century, known for its intricate carvings and ancient architecture.
- Humayun’s Tomb – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful example of Mughal architecture.
- India Gate – A war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers who died in World War I.
- Jama Masjid – One of the largest mosques in India, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century.
- Lotus Temple – A Bahai House of Worship known for its unique lotus-shaped design.
- Raj Ghat – A memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, and a place of great reverence for Indians.
- Jantar Mantar – An astronomical observatory built in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II.
- Purana Qila – An ancient fort with a rich history dating back to the Mughal period.
- Safdarjung’s Tomb – A beautiful mausoleum built in the 18th century and the last monumental tomb garden of the Mughal era.
- Tughlaqabad Fort – An impressive fort built by the Tughlaq dynasty in the 14th century.
- Hauz Khas Complex – A collection of buildings from the medieval Islamic period, including a mosque, tombs, and a water tank.
- Fatehpuri Mosque – A beautiful mosque built in the 17th century by Fatehpuri Begum, one of Emperor Shah Jahan’s wives.
- St. James’ Church – A colonial-era church built in the early 19th century, known for its beautiful stained glass windows.
- Zafar Mahal – A palace built in the 18th century during the reign of the last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar.
- Feroz Shah Kotla – A 14th-century fortress built by Feroz Shah Tughlaq, which now houses a cricket stadium.
- Mutiny Memorial – A memorial built to honor the British soldiers who died during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
- Purana Quila – A fort that dates back to the 16th century, built by the Mughal emperor Sher Shah Suri.
- Nizamuddin Dargah – A shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya, a revered figure in Islam.
- Alai Darwaza – A magnificent gate built in the 14th century by the Khilji dynasty, known for its intricate carvings and designs.
Schools And Colleges In New Delhi:
New Delhi, the capital city of India, is home to numerous schools and colleges, including some of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country. Here is a list of some of the top schools and colleges in New Delhi:
Schools:
- The Mother’s International School
- Delhi Public School, R.K. Puram
- Modern School, Barakhamba Road
- Vasant Valley School
- Springdales School, Dhaula Kuan
- Sanskriti School, Chanakyapuri
- The Shri Ram School, Vasant Vihar
- Amity International School, Saket
- Bluebells School International, Kailash Colony
- Sardar Patel Vidyalaya
Colleges:
- Delhi University
- Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi
- Lady Shri Ram College for Women
- St. Stephen’s College
- Miranda House
- Shri Ram College of Commerce
- Delhi Technological University
- National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)
- Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU)
10 Famous Restaurants In New Delhi:
New Delhi, the capital city of India, is home to a variety of restaurants that offer a diverse range of cuisines, from traditional Indian to international flavors. Here are 10 famous restaurants in New Delhi:
- Bukhara – Known for its signature dishes like Dal Bukhara and Sikandari Raan, Bukhara is an iconic restaurant at the ITC Maurya hotel that has been serving authentic North Indian cuisine since 1978.
- Indian Accent – This award-winning restaurant at The Lodhi hotel is known for its innovative fusion cuisine that blends Indian flavors with international techniques.
- Karim’s – Located in the crowded streets of Old Delhi, Karim’s is a legendary restaurant that has been serving mouth-watering Mughlai cuisine for more than a century.
- Dum Pukht – Another iconic restaurant at the ITC Maurya hotel, Dum Pukht offers a regal dining experience with its slow-cooked Awadhi cuisine that is served in traditional copper pots.
- Moti Mahal – The birthplace of the iconic dish Butter Chicken, Moti Mahal is a popular chain of restaurants that serves authentic North Indian cuisine.
- Soda Bottle Opener Wala – This retro-themed restaurant is known for its Parsi cuisine that includes signature dishes like Berry Pulao, Dhansak, and Lagan Nu Custard.
- Paranthe Wali Gali – This narrow alley in Old Delhi is famous for its street food, particularly the parathas that are served with a variety of fillings like potato, paneer, and cauliflower.
- Nizam’s Kathi Kabab – Located in Connaught Place, Nizam’s is a legendary restaurant that is known for its mouth-watering rolls, particularly the Chicken Tikka Roll.
- Sattvik – This vegetarian restaurant in Saket offers a range of healthy and delicious dishes that are inspired by Ayurveda.
- Farzi Cafe – This modern Indian bistro is known for its innovative dishes that use molecular gastronomy techniques to create unique flavors and presentations.
10 Famous Hotels In New Delhi:
New Delhi, the capital city of India, is known for its luxurious and iconic hotels that offer world-class amenities and services to their guests. Here are 10 famous hotels in New Delhi:
- The Imperial – This iconic 5-star hotel in Connaught Place is a blend of colonial and modern architecture and offers luxurious rooms, restaurants, and a spa.
- The Taj Mahal Hotel – Located in the heart of New Delhi, this 5-star hotel is known for its elegant décor, luxurious rooms, and fine dining restaurants.
- The Leela Palace – This 5-star hotel in Chanakyapuri offers luxurious rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a spa, and several fine dining restaurants.
- The Oberoi – This luxury hotel in the heart of New Delhi offers spacious rooms, a spa, an outdoor pool, and several fine dining restaurants.
- The Hyatt Regency – This 5-star hotel in Bhikaji Cama Place offers modern rooms, a spa, an outdoor pool, and several fine dining restaurants.
- The Shangri-La – This 5-star hotel in Connaught Place offers modern rooms, a spa, an outdoor pool, and several fine dining restaurants.
- The Westin – This 5-star hotel in Gurgaon offers modern rooms, a spa, an outdoor pool, and several fine dining restaurants.
- The Claridges – This iconic 5-star hotel in Lutyens’ Delhi offers elegant rooms, several fine dining restaurants, and a spa.
- The Roseate – This luxury hotel in Aerocity offers modern rooms, an outdoor pool, a spa, and several fine dining restaurants.
- The ITC Maurya – This iconic 5-star hotel in Chanakyapuri is known for its luxurious rooms, several fine dining restaurants, and a spa.
Hospitals In New Delhi:
New Delhi, the capital city of India, is home to several renowned hospitals that offer world-class medical facilities and services. Here is a list of some of the top hospitals in New Delhi:
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) – AIIMS is a premier medical institution in India and offers comprehensive healthcare services, including specialized treatment for various medical conditions.
- Fortis Escorts Heart Institute – This hospital is a leading center for cardiac care and offers specialized services like angioplasty, bypass surgery, and heart transplant.
- Sir Ganga Ram Hospital – This multi-specialty hospital offers advanced medical facilities and services, including specialized care for neurology, cardiology, and gastroenterology.
- Max Super Specialty Hospital – This hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including specialized care for oncology, cardiology, and neurology.
- Apollo Hospitals – Apollo Hospitals is a leading chain of hospitals in India and offers comprehensive medical services, including specialized care for oncology, cardiology, and neurology.
- Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals – This hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including specialized care for cardiology, neurology, and gastroenterology.
- Medanta – The Medicity – This multi-specialty hospital offers advanced medical facilities and services, including specialized care for oncology, cardiology, and neurology.
- BLK Super Speciality Hospital – This hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including specialized care for cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics.
- AIIMS Trauma Center – This specialized center provides emergency medical services and trauma care for patients who have suffered accidents or injuries.
- Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Center – This hospital is a leading center for cancer care and offers specialized services like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
Delhi In Pre-Mughal Era:
Delhi has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The earliest known settlement in the region was the Indus Valley Civilization‘s city of Indraprastha, which is mentioned in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. The city was said to have been founded by the Pandavas, who ruled the region in the ancient period.
Over the centuries, Delhi was ruled by several dynasties and empires, including the Mauryas, the Guptas, the Rajputs, and the Tomars. In the 12th century, Delhi became the capital of the Chauhan Rajputs, who built several temples and monuments in the city.
In the late 12th century, Delhi was invaded by the Muslim ruler Muhammad Ghori, who defeated the Chauhans and established the Delhi Sultanate. The Sultanate was ruled by several dynasties of Muslim rulers, including the Slave Dynasty, the Khiljis, the Tughlaqs, and the Sayyids. During this period, Delhi became a center of Islamic culture and learning, and several mosques, tombs, and forts were built in the city.
In the early 16th century, Delhi was invaded by the Mughal Emperor Babur, who defeated the last of the Delhi Sultanate rulers and established the Mughal Empire. The Mughals ruled Delhi and much of India for the next three centuries and built several magnificent monuments and structures, including the Red Fort, the Jama Masjid, and the Humayun’s Tomb.
However, before the arrival of the Mughals, Delhi was already a city with a rich history and heritage, which is evident from the numerous ancient temples, monuments, and ruins that can still be seen in the city today. The pre-Mughal era of Delhi was a time of great cultural and architectural achievements, which laid the foundation for the city’s later glory under the Mughals and beyond.
Delhi During The Mughal Era:
Delhi during the Mughal era was a period of great prosperity and cultural flowering. The Mughals, who were of Mongol origin and had ruled India for over three centuries, made Delhi their capital and left an indelible mark on the city’s architecture, culture, and history.
One of the most famous Mughal emperors, Akbar, built the Agra Fort and the Fatehpur Sikri, which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. He also founded the Din-i-Ilahi, a syncretic religion that blended elements of Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism.
His grandson, Shah Jahan, is known for building the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, which is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. He also built the Red Fort in Delhi, which served as the Mughal’s residence and administrative center. The fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Mughal era in Delhi also saw a flourishing of art, literature, and culture. The Mughals were great patrons of the arts and commissioned several magnificent works of art and architecture, including the Qutub Minar, the Jama Masjid, and the Safdarjung Tomb. The city also became a center of learning and scholarship, with several madrasas and libraries established during this period.
The Mughals also left a lasting impact on Delhi’s food culture. Many of the city’s famous dishes, such as kebabs, biryanis, and tandoori chicken, have their roots in the Mughal era.
Overall, the Mughal era in Delhi was a time of great splendor and cultural achievement. The city’s rich heritage from this period can still be seen today in the form of its magnificent monuments, art, and cuisine, making Delhi a must-visit destination for anyone interested in India’s rich history and culture.
Delhi After The Mughal Era:
After the decline of the Mughal Empire, Delhi went through a period of political turmoil and instability. The city was invaded and occupied by several foreign powers, including the British, Marathas, and Afghans, each of whom left their mark on the city’s history and culture.
In 1803, the British East India Company defeated the Marathas and gained control of Delhi, which became the capital of British India. The British established several administrative and military institutions in the city, including the Delhi Durbar, which was a grand ceremony held to mark the coronation of British monarchs as the Emperor or Empress of India.
During this period, Delhi underwent a significant transformation, with the construction of several new buildings and public infrastructure projects, including the Delhi Ridge, the Delhi College, and the Old Delhi Railway Station. The city also became a center of education, with several new schools and colleges established to train the local population.
In 1911, the British decided to shift the capital of India from Calcutta to Delhi, and a new city was built to the south of the old city. Known as New Delhi, the new city was designed by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker and was inaugurated in 1931. The city was built to reflect the grandeur and majesty of the British Empire and features several magnificent buildings, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Parliament House, and the India Gate.
After India gained independence from British rule in 1947, Delhi became the capital of the newly-formed Indian Republic. The city underwent further development and modernization, with the construction of several new public buildings, housing projects, and infrastructure projects. Today, Delhi is a bustling metropolis and one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, with a rich and diverse culture that reflects its long and varied history.
Conclusion
The first thing to be said is that New Delhi by no means stands alone. It is, in fact, a part of the world’s most famous city, the capital of the British Empire, London. Fashioned by the genius of man, it is a monument of the great age in which it was made, and at the same time a prophecy of the great age in which it is destined to rise. The British wanted to build a new city as the capital of their Indian colony. Before the British came to India, the area around Delhi was mostly wilderness and had been for centuries. As the Mughals built Delhi the area around it was mostly farms and villages. The British wanted to build a new capital for India and found the area around Delhi to be a good place for that.