Culture of delhi |
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Delhi was the capital of several Hindu, Mughal, Rajput, Turkic and Afghan empires in ancient India. As a consequence, Delhi has a unique history of blending itself with several different cultures. After Delhi was declared as the capital of the Republic of India, several people from every corner of the country have made Delhi their home, adding to its cultural diversity. Delhi's art and crafts industry is as diverse as the city's culture. Delhi is the home of Zardozi, an embroidery done with gold thread and Meenakari, the art of enamelling. Delhi has several art and crafts museums like the Pragati Maidan and Dilli Haat. Pragati Maidan showcases rare and exquisite pieces of art and craft from all over India and hosts a 13-day long International Trade Fair every year in November.
A direct consequence of Delhi's rich history is its magnificent monuments. The Old City is the site where the Mughals and the Turkic rulers constructed several architectural marvels like the Jama Masjid and Lal Qila while the Birla Mandir and Chattarpur Temple represent a blend of North and South Indian architectural styles. The Archaeological Survey of India recognises more than 172 monuments in Delhi as national heritage sites. Two World Heritage Sites, the 72.5 meters tall Qutab Minar and Humayun's Tomb, are located in Delhi. Other famous monuments include the India Gate,the Jantar Mantar, an 18th century astronomical observatory, and the Purana Qila, a 16th century fortress.
The Lotus Temple, a symbol of Delhi's religious tolerance and unity, is the most visited edifice in the world with more 50 million visitors annually. Delhi offers a glimpse of India's religious diversity. The largest mosque in India, the Jama Masjid and one of the most visited Vaishnavite temples in the world, the Birla Mandir, are located in Delhi. New Delhi, a spacious, well-designed district of Delhi, houses several government buildings and official residences reminiscent of the British colonial architecture. Important structures include the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Secretariat, the Rajpath, the Parliament of India and the Vijay Chowk.
Delhi is a noted centre of performing arts. Several theatres and cinema halls are located here. However, the cinema industry in the city is virtually non-existent. The India Habitat Centre provides a physical environment which would serve as a catalyst for a synergetic relationship between individuals and institutions working in diverse habitat related areas.
Delhi is a noted centre of performing arts. Several theatres and cinema halls are located here. However, the cinema industry in the city is virtually non-existent. The India Habitat Centre provides a physical environment which would serve as a catalyst for a synergetic relationship between individuals and institutions working in diverse habitat related areas.
Historically, Delhi has always remained an important trading center in northern India. Chandni Chowk, a three century old shopping area, is perhaps the most famous commercial area in India. Connaught Place, a major commercial center in the heart of New Delhi, is not only a shopper's paradise but also offers a glimpse of Colonial-era architecture. The central market of Lajpat Nagar offers quality Indian handicrafts and garments. Other major shopping areas include Sarojini Nagar, Sabzi Mandi, Karol Bagh and Greater Kailash market. Dilli Haat and Hauz Khas village offer a variety of cultural Indian handicrafts and handlooms. Delhi's retail industry is one of the fastest growing industries in Delhi. Several western-style shopping malls have opened across Delhi's metropolitan area. The main market in South Delhi offers quality garments and footwear and have outlets of almost all the top international brands. Many travellers view Delhi as a bargain hunter's paradise, as the city offers a wide variety of quality products available at a fraction of the cost in Europe and the United States. |
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