About Delhi

Delhi is a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling Havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for several rulers and many empires for about a millennium. Many times the city was built, destroyed, and then rebuilt here. Interestingly, several Delhi rulers played a dual role, first as destroyers and then as creators. The city's importance lies not just in its past glory as the seat of empires and magnificent monuments, but also in the rich and diverse cultures. No wonder chroniclers of Delhi culture - from Chand Bardai and Amir Khusro to present-day writers - have never been at a loss for topics. In Delhi, you will discover that the city is sprinkled with dazzling gems: captivating ancient monuments, fascinating museums and art galleries, architectural wonders, a vivacious performing-arts scene, fabulous eating places, and bustling markets. Delhi has been the political hub of India. Every political activity in the country traces its roots here. This was true even in the mythological era. The Pandavas of the Mahabharata had their capital at Indraprastha, which is believed to have been geographically located in today's Delhi.

India Gate is a memorial raised in honor of the Indian soldiers who died during the Afghan wars and World War I. The names of the soldiers who died in these wars are inscribed on the walls. The cenotaph (or shrine) in the middle is constructed with black marble and depicts a rifle placed on its barrel, crested by a soldier's helmet. Each face of the cenotaph has inscribed in gold the words Amar Jawan (in Hindi, meaning Immortal Warrior). The green lawns at India Gate are a popular evening and holiday rendezvous for young and old alike. Every year the Republic day celebrations are held in Delhi. The army men and other citizens of India who are awarded or who participate in the celebration walk through the Rajpath.

The decision for constructing the Red Fort was made in 1639 when Shah Jahan decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. Within eight years, Shahjahanabad was completed with the Red Fort-Qila-i-Mubarak (fortunate citadel) - Delhi's first fort - ready in all its magnificence {{|date=August 2008}} to receive the Emperor. Though much has changed with the large-scale demolitions during the British occupation of the fort, its important structures have survived. On every independence day, the Flag of India is hosted by the Prime Minister of India here.

Qutub Minar is an excellent example of Afghan Architecture. The Minar is 72.5 meter high victory tower, the construction of which began in the final year of the twelfth century by Qutubuddin Aibak and was later completed by his successor. It has been given World Heritage Site status.

Lotus Temple is situated atop Kalkaji Hill. It is also known as "The Lotus Temple '' due to its distinctive lotus-shaped design in Marble. It was built in 1987 by the followers of the Bahai faith. The temple signifies the purity and equality of all religions.

The Akshardham Temple is a massive temple complex in Delhi. It has got 20,000 statues, floral motifs, and arches as well as exquisitely carved pillars. The Akshardham Temple in Delhi was constructed under the patronage of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha), Swaminarayan Aksharpith and initiated on November 7, 2005. The temple complex represents a unique blend of the Hindu religion and Indian culture.

In New Delhi, India, on Tees January Road, previously Albuquerque Road, lies Gandhi Smriti, a museum honouring Mahatma Gandhi. It was once known as Birla House or Birla Bhavan. Mahatma Gandhi died there on January 30, 1948, after having lived there for the last 144 days of his life. The Birla family, Indian business tycoons, lived there originally. This national memorial celebrates the values of honesty, nonviolence, togetherness, and equality. The sacred building, which holds many cherished memories of Mahatma Gandhi's final days, has been added to our national heritage. Gandhi's life and teachings have had a profound impact on human history, and maintaining this memorial is intended to uphold and further his values. With the exception of Mondays and federal holidays, the museum is open every day. Entry is open to everyone.

The Memorial consists of: (a) Visual Aspects to perpetuate the memory of Mahatma Gandhi and the noble ideals he represented, (b) Educative Aspects to focus concentrated attention on certain values of life that made Gandhi a Mahatma, and (c) Service Aspects to introduce activities in order to sub-serve certain felt needs. On display in the Museum are photographs, sculptures, paintings, frescos, inscriptions on rocks, and relics pertaining to the year Mahatma Gandhi spent here. The meager personal effects of Gandhi Ji too are carefully preserved.