50 Facts About Delhi

Here are 50 interesting facts about Delhi, India’s capital city:

Delhi is both a Union Territory and the capital of India.
It is the second-most populous city in the world, with over 32 million people (2023 estimates).
New Delhi is a district within Delhi, designated as the capital of India in 1911.
Delhi shares its borders with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
Delhi covers an area of 1,484 sq. km, making it India’s second-largest metro area after Mumbai.

Delhi has been inhabited since the 6th century BCE.
It has been ruled by several dynasties, including the Mauryas, Mughals, and the British.
The city was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, with some claiming it has been rebuilt seven times.
The Qutub Minar, built in 1193, is the tallest brick minaret in the world.
The Red Fort was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Delhi has a unique political status, governed by both the Central Government and its own elected government.
It has its own Chief Minister, currently Arvind Kejriwal (as of 2024).
Delhi houses the three main branches of India’s government – the Rashtrapati Bhavan (Executive), Parliament House (Legislative), and the Supreme Court (Judiciary).
Delhi became the capital of India in 1911, shifting from Kolkata.
The Delhi Legislative Assembly has 70 seats.

Delhi has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb.
India Gate is a war memorial dedicated to soldiers of World War I.
The Lotus Temple is shaped like a lotus flower and is open to all religions.
The Akshardham Temple is the largest Hindu temple complex in the world.
Jama Masjid, built by Shah Jahan, is one of India’s largest mosques.

Delhi is home to people from all parts of India, making it one of the most culturally diverse cities.
Holi, Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and Lohri are celebrated with great enthusiasm.
The Delhi International Arts Festival is one of India’s biggest cultural events.
The famous “Dilli Haat” is a market showcasing handicrafts from all Indian states.
Delhi has a vibrant street art culture, with various murals and graffiti.

Delhi is known as the food capital of India.
Chandni Chowk is famous for its street food, including parathas, chaat, and jalebis.
Butter Chicken originated in Delhi, invented at Moti Mahal restaurant.
Delhi’s Mughlai cuisine is influenced by Persian and Central Asian flavors.
The city is home to Asia’s largest spice market, Khari Baoli.

The Delhi Metro is one of the largest metro systems in the world.
Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Asia.
Delhi has India’s largest bus transport system (DTC – Delhi Transport Corporation).
The Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways help reduce traffic congestion.
Connaught Place (CP) is one of the most expensive commercial real estate locations in the world.

Delhi has some of India’s top universities, including Delhi University (DU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and Jamia Millia Islamia.
The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-D) is one of India’s premier engineering institutions.
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) is India’s top medical institute.
Delhi Public School (DPS) has multiple branches across India and abroad.
The National School of Drama (NSD) has produced many famous Bollywood actors.

Delhi is one of the greenest capitals in the world, with over 20% of its area covered in forests.
Lodhi Garden is one of the most beautiful parks in India.
The Yamuna River flows through Delhi but is heavily polluted.
Delhi experiences extreme temperatures, with summers exceeding 45°C and winters dropping below 5°C.
Smog and air pollution are major challenges for the city.

Delhi is home to the world’s tallest statue of Hanuman (108 feet) in Karol Bagh.
Hauz Khas Village is a trendy spot for cafes, nightlife, and art galleries.
The Delhi Half Marathon is one of the largest running events in Asia.
The Pragati Maidan hosts the largest trade fairs in India.
Delhi’s Tihar Jail is the largest prison complex in South Asia.

Delhi is a city of history, politics, culture, and modernity. Let me know if you want more details on any of these facts! 😊🏛️