Explanations:The design of the city of New Delhi is a significant aspect of Indian history and urban planning. The city was designed during the British colonial period, specifically in the early 20th century, as part of the British government's plan to shift the capital from Calcutta to Delhi. The British wanted to create a new administrative center that would symbolize the power and grandeur of the British Empire in India.
Sir Edwin Lutyens, a renowned British architect, was chosen for this task. Lutyens was known for his work in designing grand and imposing buildings, and he was commissioned to create a new city that would serve as the seat of the British government in India. The design of New Delhi was influenced by the Beaux-Arts style, which was popular in the early 20th century and was characterized by its grandeur, symmetry, and classical elements.
Lutyens' design for New Delhi included several iconic buildings and structures, such as the Rashtrapati Bhavan (formerly known as Viceroy's House), which serves as the official residence of the President of India, and the India Gate, a war memorial that stands at the center of the city. The layout of New Delhi was carefully planned to create a sense of order and grandeur, with wide avenues and open spaces that were intended to reflect the power and authority of the British Empire.
It is important to note that while Lutyens designed the city of New Delhi, he did not design the entire city of Delhi. The older parts of Delhi, such as Old Delhi and Shahjahanabad, were built by earlier rulers, including the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who constructed the Red Fort and other significant structures in the 17th century. The design of New Delhi was a specific project that aimed to create a new administrative center that would serve as a symbol of British power and influence in India.
Understanding the historical context and the specific contributions of Sir Edwin Lutyens to the design of New Delhi is crucial for comprehending the urban planning and architectural history of the city. This knowledge is often tested in competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and Bank PO, where questions about the design and history of New Delhi are common.