The name Delhi is said to come from the 1st century King, Raja Dhilu although many people feel it is named after the Hindi name for heart, Dil, दिल
Our first visit today was to Rajpath (Kingsway), a large parade linking India gate to the Government offices in New Delhi.
This area is very spacious unlike Old Dehi. At one end is the official residence of the Indian Prime Minister, shielded by large, wrought iron gates. A beautiful building which Lutyens intended it to show the might of the British Empire. At the other end of the parade is a 42m high stone gate paying tribute to the 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who died as well as naming British and Empire soldiers who died during WW1.
It is supposedly thought by many Indians that Partition was not the best idea in 1947 as they feel that if the inhabitants of two countries were "more together" it would make a more peaceful sub-continent. The new Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, seems to be well thought of, changing things for the better.
We then went to Humayun's Tomb. This was built in the 16th century amd os the tomb of the Mughal Emporor in Delhi, commissioned by his consort Empress Bega Begum. All the buildings keep the strict rules of the Islamic geometry, following the number eight. I think most of Delhi's schools seemed to be there in their neat uniforms consisting of a Salwar Kameez with a matching dupatta.
Out last visit for the day was to Qutub Complex. Besides a 73m minaret the complex holds the Quwwat-us-Islam. The ruins of the first mosque to be built in India. Some of the
carving on the columns and ruins are incredibly intricate carved from red sandstone and marble.
As with all our visits, visitors to the country pay a lot more for the entrance fees, bringing in valuable currency. Because we are "high value" and as our guide pre-purchases the tickets, we always go to the front of the queue which is very helpful when it is so hot! 32c today and sunny but very dry.
Rupert
2017-11-01
Latest studies I have read on Partition suggest it was a cock up that no-one wanted, and no-one expected 6 months earlier. A bit like Brexit!
magantone
2017-11-12
I think that is the impression we got too