Exploring the Ancient Names of New Delhi: From Indraprastha to New Delhi
Delhi, the capital city of India, boasts a rich and varied history that spans back to the legends of the Mahabharata. Its ancient names—such as Indraprastha, Dillika, and New Delhi—bear testament to the diverse cultural and political influences that have shaped this metropolitan city. In this article, we delve into the fascinating names associated with the city's legends and historical periods.
From Myths to Realms: The Legend of Indraprastha
Indraprastha, the oldest name of modern-day Delhi, holds a significant place in Indian mythology and literature. Believed to have existed during the era of the Kuru and Pandava kings, specifically mentioned in the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata, Indraprastha is thought to have stood where Delhi currently lies.
The city's name means 'city of Indra', aligning it with the divine king of gods in Hindu mythology. According to legend, the Pandavas inherited the priceless gem, the Divya Panna, during the Great War and built this magnificent city, known for its wealth, splendor, and grandeur. While the exact location remains debated among historians, the ancient city's existence is a wondrous tale of ancient India.
Historical City Names of Delhi
Beyond the mythical Indraprastha, Delhi's history is marked by several significant urban centers and names. Here's a list of the earliest known names and the approximate periods in which they were in use:
1. Dhillika - The Founding of Dillika Puri
Dhillika, also known as Dillika, traces back to the 8th century CE. Founded by the Tomara ruler Anangpal, Dhillika Puri was the city's first name, eventually evolving into Delhi.
2. Qila Rai Pithora - The Fort of Rai Pithora
Qila Rai Pithora (Fort of Rai Pithora) was associated with the 12th century ruler Prithviraj Chauhan. He expanded the city and built a formidable fort around 1191-1210 CE, which became a crucial strategic point during this period.
3. Siri - A Mughal City
Siri, established in 1303 by Sultan Khalji, served as the second important medieval city of Delhi and the site of the construction of the famous Alai Minar.
4. Tughluqabad - The Fort of Tughlaq
Tughluqabad, founded by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq in 1321, stands as a testament to the posterity of the Tughlaq dynasty. This city endured for over one hundred years and included the colossal Tughlaqabad Fort, a detractor for modern tourists.
5. Jahanpanah - World Refuge
Jahanpanah, the fourth city of Delhi, was founded in the 14th century by Muhammad bin Tughlaq. Its purpose was to serve as a refuge against Mongol invasions, and the intricate planning of the city reflects its strategic importance.
6. Firozabad - Firoz Shah's City
Firozabad, founded by Firoz Shah Tughlaq, honored him as it became the capital of the Tughlaq dynasty in the 14th century. The city housed the famous Firoz Shah Kotla.
7. Shergarh / Purana Qila - The Fort of Sher Shah Suri
Shergarh and its alternative name Purana Qila (Old Fort) represent the reign of Sher Shah Suri. This fort, constructed in the mid-16th century, connects to another significant period as it witnessed the victory of Humayun over Sher Shah Suri.
8. Shahjahanabad - The City of Shah Jahan
Shahjahanabad, established in 1639 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, became a symbol of the opulence of the Mughal rule. The iconic structures, the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid, stand as monuments to this period of grandeur.
9. New Delhi - British Imperial Capital
New Delhi, conceived by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, was inaugurated in 1931. It marked a new era for the city, representing the shift of the colonial capital from Kolkata to Delhi, forever altering the face of the city.
As we explore the historical names of Delhi, we uncover a thorough narrative of the city's cultural and political evolution. From the mythological Indraprastha to the modern epic of New Delhi, the history of Delhi is a captivating blend of legend, culture, and innovation. Each name tells a unique story and offers insights into the diverse timeline of this vibrant city.