When did Delhi become the capital of India?

Did you know that Kolkata was once the heart of India's administration before Delhi took over as the capital in 1911? The shift from Kolkata to Delhi was not just a change of location—it was a bold political move and a visionary architectural transformation that marked a new era in India's history. 

Delhi's rise as the capital was driven by a grand strategy, blending colonial ambition with a cultural reinvention, and laid the foundation for a city that would become the heartbeat of a newly independent nation.

The Decision to Shift the Capital

King George V announced his decision to shift the capital from Calcutta (then known as Kolkata) to Delhi during the Delhi Durbar of December 12, 1911. Other factors also played a role, such as Delhi being an important political center for different empires throughout history, its location, and the British administration's desire to have a more central, geographically, and politically positioned capital.

Factors that influenced the move

Before this change, Kolkata had been the capital of British India since the early 19th century. However, British officials realized that Delhi was a strategic location, being nearer to the summer capital, Shimla, and easily accessible for governance throughout the year. Moreover, Delhi's deep history, entwined with Hindu and Muslim pride, attracted British eyes and made it the capital of their new imperial city.

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The Architectural Vision

The two most prominent British architects, Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker were assigned the design and construction of New Delhi. They planned a city that would reflect the majesty of British imperial power but also fulfill the requirements of a modern administrative center. Construction started in earnest after World War I, with a substantial amount of four million British pounds being allocated for this monumental project.

Inauguration of New Delhi

New Delhi was finally inaugurated as the capital on 13 February 1931, by the then Viceroy of India, Lord Irwin. The new capital was built along wide boulevards with a mix of stunning government buildings and lush gardens under the umbrella of Indian and European architectural designs. This was, therefore, more than just an inauguration of a built space; it marked the coming of a new era in Indian governance.

New Delhi Today

Since its establishment as the capital, New Delhi has transformed into a lively metropolis considered India's political hub. The city houses some of the country's important government institutions such as the Parliament House, the residence of the President, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and many ministries. Today, New Delhi is a testament to India's complex history and its journey towards independence and self-governance.

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