The history of India’s capital has changed over time. Before Delhi became the capital, Calcutta served as the capital of British India. Calcutta now Kolkata remained the centre of British administration from 1772 until 1911. Keep reading to know in detail.
Which City Was the First Capital of British India?
Calcutta was the capital of British India from 1772 to 1911. It is located in present-day West Bengal. It became the centre of British administration in 1772. Calcutta remained the capital for around 139 years. The capital was shifted from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911.
When Did Calcutta Become the Capital of British India?
Calcutta became the capital of British India in 1772. Warren Hastings was the Governor of Bengal at the time. He moved important offices from Murshidabad to Calcutta.
Who Made Calcutta the Capital of British India?
Warren Hastings played an important role in making Calcutta the centre of British administration. He served as Governor of Bengal.
What Was Calcutta Called Before Kolkata?
The city was widely known as Calcutta during British rule and is now officially known as Kolkata. Kolkata’s early history is linked to three villages. These villages were Sutanuti, Gobindapur and Kalikata. The name Calcutta is given after Kalikata. The official English name was changed from Calcutta to Kolkata in 2001. Kolkata is now the capital of West Bengal.
How Long Was Calcutta the Capital of British India?
Calcutta remained the capital for about 139 years. The time period was from 1772 to 1911. The capital was shifted to Delhi in 1911.
When Did the British Shift the Capital From Calcutta to Delhi?
The British announced the decision to shift the capital from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911. The announcement was made on December 12, 1911.
What Was the Summer Capital of British India?
Shimla in Himachal Pradesh was the summer capital of British India. The hill town attracted British officials because of its cooler climate and beautiful Himalayan setting.
Calcutta vs Delhi: Capital of British India
| Feature | Calcutta | Delhi |
| Capital role | Capital before 1911 | Capital after 1911 |
| Present name | Kolkata | Delhi/New Delhi |
| Capital period | 1772–1911 | From 1911 |
| Important event | Offices moved from Murshidabad in 1772 | Capital transfer announced in 1911 |
| Present role | Capital of West Bengal | National capital of India |
First Capital of British India
| Feature | Detail |
| First capital | Calcutta |
| Present name | Kolkata |
| Capital from | 1772 |
| Capital until | 1911 |
| Important figure | Warren Hastings |
| Earlier administrative centre | Murshidabad |
| New capital | Delhi |
| Capital transfer announced | December 12, 1911 |
| Announced by | King George V |
| Summer capital | Shimla |
| New Delhi inaugurated | 1931 |
| Present capital of West Bengal | Kolkata |