The capital city of India is New Delhi, a vibrant metropolis that serves as the seat of the Indian government. At what.edu.vn, we provide you with a comprehensive guide to understanding why New Delhi is the capital and what makes it significant. Explore the rich history, cultural importance, and modern developments of India’s capital city.
1. What Is the Capital of India?
The capital of India is New Delhi. It officially became the capital on December 15, 1911, when it was declared that the seat of the government would be moved from Calcutta. New Delhi is not only the political hub of India but also a city steeped in history, culture, and modern development.
1.1. Quick Facts About New Delhi
- Location: Situated in Northern India
- Coordinates: 28.6139° N, 77.2090° E
- Time Difference: UTC+5.5 (10.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
- History: A city with roots stretching back centuries, New Delhi was formally inaugurated as the capital in 1931 after the British decided to move their administrative center from Calcutta.
2. Why Is New Delhi the Capital of India?
Several factors contributed to New Delhi’s selection as the capital city of India:
2.1. Historical Significance
Delhi has been a significant center of power for centuries, serving as the capital of various empires and dynasties, including the Mughals. This rich historical legacy made it a natural choice for the British when they sought to consolidate their rule.
2.2. Strategic Location
New Delhi’s location in northern India provides a strategic advantage for governance. It is centrally located and well-connected to other major cities, making it easier to administer the vast Indian subcontinent.
2.3. Symbolic Importance
Moving the capital to Delhi was seen as a symbolic gesture, reaffirming British authority and aligning with the historical narrative of India. The establishment of New Delhi was intended to showcase the grandeur and permanence of British rule.
2.4. Administrative Efficiency
The creation of New Delhi as a planned city allowed for the development of modern infrastructure and efficient administrative systems. The city was designed to accommodate government buildings, residential areas for officials, and other essential facilities.
3. The History of New Delhi as a Capital
The story of New Delhi becoming India’s capital is intertwined with British colonial history and the city’s own storied past.
3.1. Early History
The area around Delhi has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of settlements dating back to the second millennium BCE. Over the centuries, numerous cities have risen and fallen in the Delhi region, each leaving its mark on the landscape and culture. The city’s name is associated with various myths and legends; the original name for the city may have been Dhilli or Dhillika; alternatively, the name could be a corruption of the Hindustani words “dehleez” or “dehali” – both terms meaning “threshold” or “gateway” – and indicative of the city as a gateway to the Gangetic Plain
3.2. Mughal Influence
During the Mughal era, Delhi flourished as a center of art, culture, and trade. The Mughal emperors built magnificent monuments and gardens, transforming Delhi into one of the most splendid cities in the world.
3.3. British Decision
In 1911, during the Delhi Durbar, King George V announced the decision to move the capital of British India from Calcutta to Delhi. The reasons behind this decision were complex, but they included:
- Administrative Concerns: Delhi was seen as a more centrally located and strategically advantageous location for governing the vast Indian Empire.
- Political Considerations: Moving the capital to Delhi was intended to curry favor with the Indian population and project an image of strength and stability.
- Historical Symbolism: Delhi had a long and illustrious history as a center of power, and the British sought to capitalize on this historical legacy.
3.4. Construction of New Delhi
Following the announcement, the British embarked on an ambitious project to construct a new capital city south of the existing city of Delhi. This new city, designed by architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, was named New Delhi. The new capital was not formally inaugurated until 1931.
3.5. Independence and Beyond
After India gained independence in 1947, New Delhi remained the capital city. Since then, it has grown into a sprawling metropolis, a center of government, commerce, and culture.
