Delhi
New Delhi, the capital and the third largest city of India is a fusion of the ancient and the modern. Standing along the West End of Gangetic Plain, the capital city, Delhi, unwinds a picture rich with culture, architecture and human diversity, deep in history, monuments, museums, galleries, gardens and exotic shows. Comprising of two contrasting yet harmonious parts, the Old Delhi and New Delhi, the city is a travel hub of Northern India.Narrating the city's Mughal past, Old Delhi, takes you through the labyrinthine streets passing through formidable mosques, monuments and forts. You will also discover lively and colorful bazaars that boast to cater all sorts of good and items at mind-blowing prices amidst a barely controlled chaotic ambience. The imperial city of New Delhi displays the finely curved architecture of British Raj.It generates a mesmerizing charm reflecting well-composed and spacious streets under the shade of beautifully lined avenues of trees and tall and imposing government buildings.New Delhi has expanded and now encompasses residential and commercial development to the west and south, plus the satellite towns of Noida, Gurgaon and Faridabad.Delhi has overtaken Mumbai & Kolkata in recent years to become the most vibrant creative art center in India. The city has more than twenty five galleries. Conducted tours, seminars, film shows and study classes on art appreciation, history and conservation are frequently organized. Most of the performing art centers are around Mandi House and Bhagwan Das Road.There is an amazing range of activity from cultural walks, talks, theatre productions and art exhibitions to films by Indian and foreign directors. One can find an option at the Habitat World at Lodhi Road as well as Siri Fort at Khel Gaon.
Area : 1483 sq. Kms.
Altitude : 239 m above sea level
Population : 1,3782976 (2001 census)
Males : 51.21 million Females : 42.49 million
Literacy rate : 81.82%
Density : 9294 persons per sq. Km.
Languages : Hindi, English, Urdu and Punjabi
Climate : Extreme Hot in Summer and Cold in Winter
Maximum Temperature : 46 Degree Celcius
Minimum Temperature : 04 Degree Celcius
Winter : December - February
Spring : March to mid April
Summer : April end to August
Autumn : September to November
Best time to Visit : October to March
River : Yamuna
Source: Wikipedia
Etymology
The etymology of "Delhi" is uncertain. The most common view is that it is an eponym of Dhillu, a king who ruled the area in ancient times.[9] Raja Dhillu (King Dhillu) founded ancient Delhi in 800 BC.[10] Some historians believe that the name is derived from Dilli, a corruption of dehleez or dehali—Hindustani for 'threshold'—and symbolic of city as a gateway to the Indo-Gangetic Plain.[11] Another theory suggests that the city's original name was Dhillika.[12] The Hindi/Prakrit word dhili ("loose") was also used for the area, and gradually transformed into the local name "Dilli".
History
Delhi, where a empire rose and fell before the dawn of history; where citadels of emperors appeared and disappeared; a city of mysterious eternity whose old ruins proclaim a majestic and imperial past and whose present pulsates vibrantly with the ever flowing life of India. The eternal Jamuna bears witness to the glorious and tumultuous 5,000 year old history of Delhi. A history which begins with the creation of Indraprastha by the Pandavas and the transformation of this barren gift of the Kauravas into an idyllic haven.A history which encompasses all the various kings and emperors who fixed their royal citadels here-- Indraprastha, Lal Kot, Quila Rai Pithora, Siri, Jahanpanah, Tughlakabad, Ferozabad, Dinpanah, Delhi Sher Shahi or then Shahjahanabad. but, combined and integrated into one, these 'new cities' have always been called Delhi and howsoever many names it may have acquired, Delhi has always been intrinsically identified with power and imperial sway. There have been at least eight cities around modern Delhi, and the old saying that whoever founds a new city at Delhi will lose it has come true every time -- most recently for the British who founded New Delhi in 1911.The historic Purana Qila, which has stood witness to Delhi's rejuvenation, periods of anarchy, and the rise & fall of empires, brings alive history of the capital. Amidst the tranquility of the splendidly panoramic environs of Purana Qila, Delhi's historic and legendary past come to life. After Shah Jahan built Red Fort the attention of administration shifted to gorgeous palaces of the fort. Today the fort is open for the public but only limited area can be accessed. More than half of the fort area has been taken over by the Army. But even what is open to visit reminds one of the splendour and lavish life style which our rulers lived. Delhi has seen the death of many empires and resisted bloody attempts to eliminate her. Nadir Shah had ordered his soldiers to plunder and massacre Delhi. It is said that he got so much wealth from Delhi that he was not able to carry in home. Abdali and Taimur Lane were no different they had tried their best to demolish the city of Delhi but it was some kind of a boon which helped it to regain its lost glory each time Delhi was plundered.Delhi was the focal point for the first war of independence in 1857. Though the revolt did not reach its desired conclusion, Delhi became a thorn in the eyes of the British. Not only in ancient times or the mediaeval period, Delhi has been the center of any activity at all times. As the Britishers shifted their capital from Calcutta to Delhi, all the activities during the freedom struggle were directed towards Delhi. Thus, Delhi also bears the marks of the freedom struggle. The ultimate goal of the Azad Hind Fauz during the freedom struggle was to capture Delhi and established Swaraj. The slogan 'Dilli Chalo' is still used by leaders and political parties when they oraganise any rally or demonstration. It was the hosting of the tricolour at Red Fort in Delhi which marked a chapter in the history of India.
RELIGION & CULTURE
Delhi-
the capital of India, reflects the cultural diversity and religious unity of India. It is difficult to define the culture and religion of India. As there is a continuous inflow of people from all parts of India, the cultural diversity is very prominent. Being an ancient city Delhi has the shadows of its past. It is said that the Delhi is losing its charm but still the glory of the past looms large its life-style. Delhi might be changing with time it has always done so but it has never shelved the past. There are discos for youngsters to swing their body through out the night, but still the Quwallies at the Nizamuddin Shrine floats in the air, the silence of the night is broken by the Prabhat ferries and the singing of Gurbani (the verses from the Granth Sahaib), the bells in the temples still tells about God being every where, the Sunday masses in Churches still attract the otherwise busy residents of India. People take a break from the hurried life during the ancient fairs and festivals like 'Phoolwalo-Ki-Sair which are still oraganised in traditional way.
Delhi shares its borders with Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, which influence the life-styles and language of the people. Migrations from various parts of India has led to pockets of has diverse culture coming together in various parts of Delhi. For example, R.K. Puram has a concentration of South Indians, while C.R. Park has a concentration of Bengalies. Delhi celebrates Durga Puja is celebrated with same enthusiasm as Id is celebrated. The Guru Purab and Christmas carry the same colour as Dewali or Buddha Purnima. The amalgamation of various cultures, traditions, religions has painted Delhi in colour which are brought from all over India.
The Jama Mazjid of the walled city is an excellent example of Indo-Persian art, whereas the Birla Temple and the Chattarpur Temple complex are considered as a blend of the North and South Indian architectural styles. Gurdwara Raquab Ganj, Sheesh Ganj and Bangla Sahib stand tall for Sikhism, whereas St. Thomas and St. Columbus toll their bells for Christians. The Bahai Lotus temple has introduced the Bahai way of worship in Delhi. Not to forget the ancient religions of Jainism and Buddhism whose genesis is in India. The monastery near the Interstate bus terminus is hub of Tibetan culture in India. Not only for the Monastery but the place has acquired fame as shopping mall. Though 'Parsies' reside mainly in western India, Delhi opens its arms for one and all.
Even though Hindus form the majority, almost 85%, India does not impose any official religion on its people. Through the ages Delhi has accepted, adapted and moulded itself to everything from Islam, rather from Aryan culture to Christianity. It adopted herself with the changing faces of history. It got the destroyed many times but it has retained the culture, heritage, religion and the tradition of its time for the generations to come.
While visiting these architecturally magnificent spiritual abodes, acquire prior information of the etiquettes to be followed. Taking off shoes and other leather articles and even covering the head and body in the sanatorium might be mandatory at such places. Avoid hugging and holding hands at these places.
DELICACIES
Indians, for geographical, agricultural and hence habitual reasons savour spicy food and sweets of various kind. Delhi being a conglomerate of different cultures can serve people with a Bengali preparation of rassogollas, sandesh, north Indian sweet phirni, kheer, peda, laddoo or Punjabi delicacy pinni.Delhi is proud of the road side dhabas and restaurants it has. Old Delhi boasts of food joints almost a century old like the 'Karims'. The most popular cuisine is mughlai. The food is cooked in the clay ovens or the 'tandoors'. The dishes include 'korma' or pot roasts, 'kababs', and 'biriyanis'. The best of south Indian food --dosas, idilies, uttapams etc-- can be had at the Sagar Group of Restaurants, Andhra Bhavan and Udupi. Half of the Delhi population consists of Punjabis, owing to the vicinity of Punjab and having Pakistani immigrants. Thus the abundance of Punjabi food which is a mixture of vegetarian and non-vegetarian preparations. Its speciality is that it has high oil content and includes milk preparations too. Of this Delhi is famous for Chaat and Kulche , Bhalle etc.Then there is North Indian traditional `pucca ' or `kutcha ' food which is essentially vegetarian; ought to be cooked with highest degree of hygiene ; basic difference between the two is fried and non fried ; tastes best when an Indian housewife cooks and serves with affection.Of course , globalisation has brought MNCs like KFC and Mc Donalds to India , there are Nirula's and Wimpy's in league with them . The five star hotels like Maurya, Taj, Oberio, Park, Ashoka, and others serve Chinese , Continental , Thai , Mughlai and Indian cuisines.
FESTIVALS
The celebration of all the festivals of India by the residents of Delhi makes the capital full of colour and joy through out the year. But the celebration of Holi and Dewali in Delhi carries a totally different mood here. These two festivals paint a very different picture of Delhi. The pomp and gaiety of the Id and Guru Purab celebrations takes into its fold the people from all walks of life. Being the Capital City, the National Festivals are celebrated with much fan fare which lacks any where else in the nation. The decorations done on the various places of worship during these festivals are a feast to the eyes.
JANUARY
With the new year the seasons of festivals starts. It all begins with the festival of Spring, Vasant Panchami. Twenty sixth day of January is celebrated as the anniversary of the India's establishment as a republic. The 30th day is remembered as the Martyrs' day.
FEBRUARY TO MARCH
Shivratri is dedicated to lord Shiva and a fast is held on this day. The festival of colours is also celebrated during these months. In ancient times this festival was celebrated with perfumed coloured water and petals powder.
MARCH TO APRIL
These months celebrate the birth of Lord Rama as Ramanvami. On the thirteenth day of April comes the harvest festival of Baisakhi. The birth of Mahavira, the founder of Jainism also comes during these months.
MAY
Buddha Purnima comes in May which commorates the birth of Lord Buddha.
JULY TO AUGUST
Fifteenth day of August is the Independence day of India. The Naag Panchami is dedicated to the serpant lord, Naag devta. This month also brings the festival of threads Rakhi. In this sisters tie sacred thread on the wrist of brothers and pray for their long life. Rakhi is celebrated on the full moon day.
AUGUST TO SEPTEMBER
The Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with pomp and gaiety throughout the country and is dedicated to the Elephant God, Ganesha. Pateli is the Parsi new year. The birthday of Lord Krishna is celebrated as Janamashtmi.
SEPTEMBER TO OCTOBER
Ramlila and Durga Puja or Dussehra is celebrated during these months. 2nd October is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi.
OCTOBER TO NOVEMBER
Dewali, the festivals of light falls during these months. This also marks the Hindu New Year. It is celebrated by lighting countless oil lamps, candles and bursting crackers. On the fifth day sisters put tilak on their brother's forehead. The festival of Govardhan is dedicated to the cows. The Birth day of Guru Nanak, founder of Sikhism is also celebrated in November.
DECEMBER
This month brings Christmas.Apart from these festivals the Muslim festivals are celebrated according to the Lunar months. Their dates are not fixed and change according to the movement of the moon. The main festivals of the Muslims are- Id-Ul-Fitr, Bakar Id, Id-Ul-Zuha, Muharram, Milad-Un-Nabi etc..
ART & THEATER
India can be identified with the dance & music which has been part of the people here since time immemorial. Even Lord Shiva is known as the Lord Natraja or the dancer. Each part India has developed some kind of traditional classic dance form of its own. Like Manipur has the colourful Manipuri dance, Orissa Boasts of the Oddissi. The Southern States also have some distinct dance style forms. The Kathak Kali of Kerala, The Bharatnataym of Karnataka are rich in vibrant expression and elegant steps. In the north flourished the Kathak which attained its height during the Mughal period. Apart from these classical dance there are numerous folk dances which derive expressions from the day to day life experiences or from the Mythological books. The Snake dance of Rajasthan, Bhangra from Punjab, the dragon dance from Tibet, The traditional dances from the hills, the foot tapping numbers from Goa, the tribal dances from the tribal regions, the Chau Dance from Purulia, the list is unending. Delhi has been host to the performances of these dances in its numerous Auditoriums and the fairs and festivals which are oraganised on a regular basis.
Delhi has also been staging plays and dramas in the auditoriums. The open air auditorium and the main auditoriums of national school of drama, the Shri Ram center, the Kamani auditorium, FICCI auditorium and Little theater Group Auditorium and many others are staging plays by different groups. There performances even in the Stadiums of Delhi. It is advisable that get prior information about the plays and book your in tickets advance as some of the plays have very heavy rush. These auditoriums also hold regular performances of Indian musical instruments like Sitar, Tabla, Sarod, Sarangi, Shehnai.The Indian Classical singing is mainly divided in two forms- The Southern Carnatic and the Northern music with various raags. The masters of these forms are regularly giving performances in Delhi.Coming out of the traditional forum, Delhi has been catching up with western culture and almost all the Big hotels have Discos which are open till late night and youngsters can be seen shaking their blues out here. The theme parks like the Appu Ghar and the Fun 'n' Food village are becoming very popular among children as well as the elders. The water rides in these parks provide perfect respite from the heat of Delhi during the summers.
PLACES OF DELHI
Chandni Chowk -
One of the main markets of Delhi, Chandni Chowk was once lined with beautiful fountains. But today the place is very crowded and congested. Chandni Chowk is located opposite the Red Fort. The Area has got the Digamber Jain Temple which houses the Birds hospital. On one end of Chandni Chowk is the Fatehpuri Mosque which was erected by the wives of Shah Jahan. Opposite the old police station or the Kotwali is the Sunheri Masjid from where Nadir Shah ordered his troops to plunder and massacre Delhi.
Old Delhi -
The City of Shahjahanabad was the capital of Shah Jahan but little remains of that old city. The Old Delhi or the walled city served as the capital for many emperors. Today, remains of the historical city are the gates like - Kashmiri Gate, Ajmeri Gate, Turkman Gate, Delhi gate. Near Delhi Gate is Feroz Shah Kotla, close to this is kept the Ashokan Pillar which was brought from Meerut by Feroz Shah Tughlaq.
The Ghats -
Along the banks of Jamuna are located the places were the leaders and freedom fighters of India were cremated. The Raj Ghat is one of the most visited ghats. A simple square platform of black marble marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated after his assassination in 1948. To North of Raj Ghat is the cremation ground of Jawaharlal Nehru named as Shanti Van. The cremation ground of Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi are also in the vicinity. The cremation ground of Lal Bahadur Shastri is nearby.
Rajpath & India Gate -
Flanked by ornamental ponds and lawns, Rajpath is host to the Republic Day Parade. The two secretariat buildings and Rashtrapati Bhawan on the Raisina hills are located on the two sides of this immensely broad road. Previously the Boat Club, besides the Rajpath, was host to many demonstrations and Rallies. India Gate is towards the eastern end of Rajpath .India Gate is a 42m high stone arch of triumph. It bears the name of the 85,000 Indian Army Soldiers who died in the campaigns of WW1, the North-West Frontiers operations and the 1919 Afghan Fiasco. Below the arch is the memorial to the unknown soldier. India Gate is surrounded by green grass lawns and trees.
The Parliament House-
Sansad Bhawan or the Parliament house is the supreme law making body in the country. It is the center of power and politicians decide the fate of the Indian Democracy here. Visitors are not allowed inside the house but when the house is in session, visitors may take permission to go inside and watch the proceedings of the house. The parliament consists of three halls- Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and the central hall. For the foreign visitors permits are given only after they obtain an introductory letter from the respective embassy.
Crafts Museum Crafts museums is at Pragati Maidan Grounds. Open from 10am-5pm daily.Gandhi Darshan & Gandhi National Museum Gandhi Darshan & Gandhi National Museum is across Rajghat and Gandhi smriti is on Tees January MargDara Shikoh Library Dara Shikoh Library is an archaeological museum in Civil Lines and is open from 10am - 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Dolls Museum -
A unique museum of Dolls is located near the ITO crossing on the Bahadur Shah Jafar Marg . These dolls are collected from different parts of India as well as from other countries of the world. These dolls reflect the tradition and culture of the region from where they come. Children Book Trust of India is In the same building. This is an organisation which is committed to provide quality books for the little ones.National Science Centre - National Science center is located near Pragati Maidan. This center is famous for the models which can be operated by the visitor himself. Children are particularly fascinated by the mysteries of science. Open through out the week except on Mondays.Delhi is spread out, and it is advisable to take organised tours, as the distances are long. The ITDC, operating under the name Ashoka Travels & Tours (tel no: 332 2336), has tours which include guides and luxury coaches. Delhi Tourism (tel no:331 4229).
FORTS & MONUMENTS
Humayun's Tomb -
Built by the wife of Humayun, Haji Begum in the mid 16th century, this red sand stone structure is considered to be the predecessor of Taj Mahal. The structure is one of the best example of Mughal Architecture. Humayun's wife is also buried in the red and white sandstone, black and yellow marble tomb. The entry in the complex is free on Fridays.
Old Fort -
It is believed that the Pandavas had built their capital, Indraprastha at the place where the old fort stands today. This fort, now in ruins, was the seat for administration for many emperors. The legendary Prithviraj Chauhan ruled from here till he was defeated by Abdali in the battle of Panipat. A new light & sound show is held by the Department of Delhi Tourism every evening. Timings and Tickets are available from the tourist office.
Safdarjung Tomb -
The Safdarjang tomb is besides the of Safdarjang airport. This tomb was built by the Nawab of Avadh for his father. The structure is one of the finest example of architecture of its time and tells a saga of the last remnants of a dying empire.
Jantar Mantar -
Few minutes walk from Connaught Place is is a strange collection of solomon coloured structures. These were built by Maharaja Jai Singh and is actually an observatory. Though not as large as its compatriot in Jaipur Jantar Mantar at Delhi also an attraction for the tourists. The astonishing part of these observatories is that they can calculate many astronomical movements very accurately.
Red Fort -
Built in Red Sand stone this imposing fort is 3 kms in perimeter with the height of the wall varying from 18 to 30 meters at places. When the Red fort was being built Yamuna used to flow on its one sides and there were deep moats on the other. Today Yamuna flows almost a kilometer away from the fort and the moats have dried up. In the evening the Delhi Tourism organises a light and sound show which narrates the history of Delhi in context of the Red Fort.The Lahore gate, the main entrance, has some emotions and sentiments attached with the Indian independence as the Tricolour flutters on the top of this gate. On 15th August the Indian Prime minister addresses the nation from here. As soon one enters in the fort from the Lahore gate There is a small Bazzar, here all kinds of items are available. This Shopping arcade was known as the Mina Bazzar and was open only to women on Thursdays's during the Mughal era.The arcade leads to the Naubat Khana or the drum house where the Musicians used to play drums on the arrival of Emperors or princes. Just above the Naubat Khana is the Indian war memorial museum which has a rich collection of armours, guns, swords, and other items related to war.The Dewan-i-Am or the place of public hearing had a wall paneled with marble in laid with precious stone which were removed during the mutiny of 1857. The Dewan-i-Khas or the place for special hearing was the area where the emperor used to hold meetings with his ministers. Next to Dewan-i-Khas are the royal baths or the Hammams and Shahi Burj which are closed for public viewing. The white marbled Moti Masjid or the pearl mosque was the private mosque for Aurangzeb.
Qutab Minar -
In 1199, Qutbuddin raised the Qutab Minar either as a victory tower or as a minaret to the adjacent mosque. From a base of 14.32 mtrs. it tapers to 2.75 mtrs. at a height of 72.5 mtrs. It is still the highest stone tower in India, one of the finest stone tower in India, one of the finest Islamic structures ever raised and Delhi's recognised landmark. It was completed by the Sultan's successor and son-in-law, Iltutmish. The tomb of Iltutmish, which he himself built in 1235, is nearby, Its interiors are profusely decorated with calligraphy, though the dome has collapsed.
PLACES OF WORSHIP
Jama Masjid -
One of the Architectural gift given by Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques not only in Delhi but in India. Completed in 1658 this Mosque has three gateways, Four angle towers and two 40 m high minarets. You can enter the mosque but take precaution to take off your shoes and make sure that you are properly dressed before entering. One can also go to the top of minarets. From here you can have a birds eye view of Delhi.
The Bahai Temple -
Completed in 1986, the Bahai temple is set amidst pools and gardens, and adherents of any faith are free to visit the temple and pray or meditate silently according to their own religion. The structure is in lotus shape so it often called the lotus temple. The view of the temple is very spectacular just before dusk when the temple is flood lit.
Nizam-Ud-Din Shrine -
The tomb of the famous sufi saint Nizam-ud-din Auliya is built on the way from Humayun's tomb. Inside the premises of the shrine is a tank which is surrounded by many other tombs. It is said that there was a controversy between the rulers of Tughlakabad and the saint over building this tank. The saint had said that the city of Tughlakabad will never flourish and so did it happen. The shrine also has the tomb of Amir Khusru and the grave of Jahanara, the daughter of Shah Jahan. It is worth visiting the shrine at around sunset on Thursdays, as it is a popular time for worship, and qawwali singers start performing after the evening prayers.
Lakshmi Narayan Temple -
This temple was build by G. D. Birla in 1938. This beautiful temple is located in the west of Connaught Place. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of prosperity and good fortune. The temple has well grafted gardens. It is also known as the Birla Mandir.
ISKCON Temple -
Completed in 1998, this is a complex of temples. Built on a hilly place this temple is dedicated to the Lord Krishna and was built by the Hare-Rama Hare- Krishna cult followers. This complex is elegantly build and is one of the largest temple complexes in India. Currently the main attraction of the temple are the Robort who enact and preach the Gita.
Chattarpur Mandir -
A complex of temples called Chattarpur mandir is located beyond the Qutab Minar in Mehrauli. Dedicated to Goddess Durga. Build in South Indian style the temple complex is spread over a large area with beautiful lawns and gardens. Though devotees visit these temples through the year, during the navratras devotees come from near and far. During the festivals there are special bus services to these temples.
Bangla Sahib Gurudwara -
A magnificent and spacious bungalow in Delhi owned by Raja Jai Singh Amber (Jaipur) who commanded great respect and honour in the court of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb now enjoys the status of a holy shrine called Gurdwara Bangla Sahib. The eighth Guru Sri Harkishan had stayed here for a few months as guest of Raja Jai Singh. Since then it has become a place of pilgrimage for both, Hindus and Sikhs. They pay their respect to the memory of Guru Harkrishan, nominated as successor by the seventh Guru, Sri Har Rai. He passed away on October 6, 1661 A.D. When only a little over five year old, he had been tried and tested as a perfect fearless and fully illuminated soul.
Sisgunj Gurudwara -
Near the Police Station, Chandini Chowk the beautiful golden domes of the Gurudwara Sisgunj immediately strike your eye. It commemorates the site of the ninth guru of the Sikhs, Guru Teg Bahadur's martyrdom. The Guru was beheaded by Aurangzeb 1675. The gurudwara has been extended from time to time and it tough to tell apart the original structure anymore |
