The Planning and Establishment of New Delhi as India's Capital

New Delhi, the capital of India, holds significant historical importance not only for the country but also for the global understanding of architectural and urban planning. However, the initial planning and architecture for New Delhi were done by British architects, highlighting a period of British influence on the Indian subcontinent. This article delves into the architects who played a crucial role in shaping the capital, the official inauguration, and the reason behind the shift from Kolkata (formerly known as Calcutta) to New Delhi.

Architectural Visionaries: Herbert Baker and Edwin Lutyens

Herbert Baker and Edwin Lutyens were two prominent British architects whose contributions to New Delhi are unmatched. They were chosen by the British colonial government for the monumental task of designing the new capital of British India. Both architects were brought to India in the early 20th century to work on this significant project.

Herbert Baker and Edwin Lutyens collaborated on designing various buildings and monuments in New Delhi. Lutyens was appointed as the chief architect, and Baker assisted him in the planning and design of Viceroy's House (now Rashtrapati Bhavan), which is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. Other notable works include the Secretariat buildings, India Gate, and other public and governmental structures.

The Official Inauguration and Timeline

On February 13, 1931, the Viceroy of India, Lord Irwin, officially inaugurated New Delhi as the new capital of British India. This date marks a significant milestone in the history of India's urban planning and political landscape. Prior to this, the capital of India had been in Kolkata for a long period.

The Historical Context

Kolkata, known today as Calcutta, was the capital of British India from 1772 until 1911. After a thorough review, it was decided that New Delhi would be the new administrative capital to better represent the diverse regions and to accommodate the needs of the larger nation. This change was part of a broader strategy to centralize the administration and planning of the colonial government.

Reasons for the Capital Shift

The decision to move the capital from Kolkata to New Delhi was influenced by several factors:

Geopolitical Considerations: The British recognized the need for a more central location that could serve as a hub for administration and governance. Prestige: Constructing a new capital city with grandiose architecture was a reflection of the British desire to leave a lasting legacy in India. Transport and Infrastructure: The advancement in transportation, including the construction of railways and roads, meant that having a centrally located capital was easier to manage.

The new capital was also designed to be a symbol of unity and progress, reflecting the aspirations of the Indian people towards self-rule and modernity.

Legacy and Impact

The design and planning of New Delhi set a benchmark for urban planning and architecture. The city layout, with broad avenues, a central axial road, and a mix of British and Indian architectural styles, is a harmonious blend that continues to inspire planners and architects around the world.

Even after independence in 1947, New Delhi remained the capital of India, serving as a symbol of national unity and progress. Today, the city remains a testament to the ingenuity and vision of Herbert Baker and Edwin Lutyens, who transformed a vast and barren landscape into one of the world's most iconic and beautiful cities.

In conclusion, the planning and establishment of New Delhi as India's capital were the result of the visionary work of British architects Herbert Baker and Edwin Lutyens, under the patronage of the British colonial government. The official inauguration on February 13, 1931, was a significant event that marked the shift from Kolkata to New Delhi. This period of history has left an enduring legacy on the urban landscape of India and continues to be a subject of study and admiration.