City history
New Delhi, the modern capital of India, reflects a complex history of ancient legends, imperial shifts, and the evolution of a global political hub.
Chapter one
Earliest documented name
"City of Indra"
The legendary ancient city associated with the Pandavas in the Mahabharata, which is believed to have been located in the modern Delhi region.
City of Indra
A legendary capital mentioned in ancient Sanskrit epics.
Uncertain
An early historical name associated with the region's various settlements.
Modern Capital
A planned city designed to serve as the seat of British India.
Chapter two
The adoption of a unified time based on the 82.5 degree East longitude to help synchronize the vast Indian railway network.
Following independence, New Delhi maintained Indian Standard Time as the official time for the sovereign Republic of India.
Chapter three
Maharaja Jai Singh II constructed this astronomical observatory to improve timekeeping and the accuracy of celestial observations in the region.
The British government announced the relocation of India's capital from Calcutta to the newly planned site of New Delhi.
The completion of the grand Viceroy's House, now the President's residence, marked a key architectural milestone in the city's development.
India gained independence from British rule, and New Delhi officially became the capital of the newly formed democratic republic.