DELHI
history
In history, as is true even today, Delhi was one of the most influential and modern cities and the preferred capital city for most emperors of India (a.k.a. Hindustan). In the ancient epic Mahabharata too, Delhi (known as Indraprastha back then) was the capital of the Pandavas. The city has been witness to political upheavals and struggles over the years of its existence. India has had rulers from a variety of cultures; it has seen Hindu kings, Muslim emperors, and, most recently, British conquerors. The forts, exquisite monuments, and archaeological wonders are reminders of Delhi’s evocative past. The Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Purana Quila, Old Fort, India Gate, and Qutub Minar are must-visits to get first-hand knowledge of our Lineage.
Climate
Delhi is known for a climate that can touch extremes. It ranges from scorching hot in summer (April-July) to freezing temperatures in winter (December-January). However, spring (February-March) and Autumn (August-November) bring much-needed relief. The city also enjoys occasional bouts of monsoons in between. We recommend that you carry cotton and light woolen clothes during the Autumn semester.
EDUCATION
Delhi has seen phenomenal growth in the sphere of education over the past few years, with schools, colleges, and professional training institutes emerging at an exponential rate. The numerous campaigns by recent governments have created an awareness among the youth
regarding the value of education and the indispensable role it plays in building the individual, and thereon the nation. Consequently, the city has been churning out pre-eminent professionals who go on to do exceptional work both nationally and internationally.
places
Jantar Mantar, India Gate, Lodhi Gardens, Akshardham Temple, Lotus Temple are the most famous monuments (apart from the ones stated previously). Connaught Place, Khan Market, Satyaniketan, and Vasant Kunj are home to an assortment of restaurants, breweries, and nightclubs, making them popular hangout spots for youngsters. Make sure to pay a visit to the neighboring city of Gurugram, which houses some of the most massive entertainment parks such as the Kingdom of Dreams, Cyber Hub, and Ambience Mall.
CULTURE
Delhi is the capital of India and is host to people from all parts of the country. The city harbors a range of diverse cultures visible throughout its streets. People from varying sects and strata of society coexist in harmony, evident by the multitude of festivals like Diwali, Eid, Holi, Christmas, which are all observed with equal zest and enthusiasm. The city effortlessly blends the traditional with the contemporary – the classical Gurbani, qawwalis, and aartis from religious shrines mixed with the high-octane rock music from discotheques bear testimony. Many famous monuments such as the Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Qutab Minar add to the old world charm of the city. Apart from this, it is the hub of several ancient crafts like carpet weaving, ivory carving, enameling, etc. In essence, Delhi can give you a taste of the entire vast cultural heritage of India.
CUISINE
Our cuisine is an amalgamation of various regional cuisines from all across India, as well as several international ones. You will find North Indian, South Indian, Punjabi, Rajasthani, Multi-cuisine eateries throughout the city. The cuisine is also indicative of the different dynasties that ruled Delhi in the medieval times, namely the Mughals, Rajputs, and others. The lanes of Old Delhi epitomize the Mughlai idea of food, offering the most delicious kebabs (a meat dish) and naans (a type of flatbread), all cooked in the traditional Mughlai tandoor (a huge earthen oven). The street-food culture has grown exponentially over the past few decades, and the area of Chandni Chowk is bound to enchant you with some of the most palatable yet affordable dishes.
SHOPPING STOP
Delhi is a paradise for all the shopaholics out there. The sprawling malls house famous brands like GAP, H&M, Zara, etc., albeit at exorbitant prices. On the contrary, one can visit the street markets, for which Delhi is famed, and stumble upon some of the same brands at a much more affordable price. Beware though; you must bring your bargaining A-game to the table; many times, the cost can be brought down to a tenth of the one initially quoted. Some of the best places to shop are Sarojini Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, and Kamla Nagar for clothing; Janpath, Paharganj, and Majnu ka Tilla for footwear and accessories; Dilli Haat for souvenirs; and Daryaganj for books.
Dean, International Programs
Prof. James Gomes
Professor, Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi