The History of Delhi | Know Your Country | National Geographic

Summary

The video script takes viewers through a journey of Delhi’s rich history, starting from its mythical origins in the Mahabharata as Indraprastha. It details the various rulers and dynasties that shaped the city, including the Tomars, Chauhans, and Tughlaqs, highlighting significant events like the construction of the Qutub Minar, the relocation of the city by Mohammad bin Tughlaq, and the establishment of Shahjahanabad by Shah Jahan. The script also covers British influence, leading to Delhi becoming the capital of independent India in 1947, showcasing its resilience and enduring spirit through centuries of change.

Takeaways

• 😀 Delhi's history begins with Mahabharata, where it was called Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas.
• 😀 The city was later named Delhi by King Dhilu, who established a settlement here thousands of years ago.
• 😀 King Tomar and Prithviraj Chauhan played key roles in shaping early Delhi, with Prithviraj renaming it Qila Rai Pithora.
• 😀 The Khilji dynasty enhanced the city's security, while the Tughlaqs, especially Mohammad bin Tughlaq, made bold, often disastrous decisions.
• 😀 Mohammad bin Tughlaq's decision to move the capital south was a failure, and the city had to be returned to its original location.
• 😀 The Tughlaq dynasty was followed by rulers like Feroz Shah Tughlaq and Babur, who contributed to the city's growth.
• 😀 Humayun, Babur's son, established a new city on the banks of the Yamuna River, which was later destroyed and rebuilt.
• 😀 Shah Jahan's reign saw the construction of Shahjahanabad and the iconic Red Fort, shaping Delhi's modern identity.
• 😀 In 1911, the British shifted the capital from Kolkata to Delhi to strengthen their rule over India.
• 😀 Delhi became the capital of independent India on August 15, 1947, when the national flag was hoisted at the Red Fort.
• 😀 Despite facing numerous challenges over millennia, Delhi remains the beating heart of India, symbolizing resilience and pride.

Q & A

What is the difference between Delhi and New Delhi?

Delhi is a union territory of India, while New Delhi is specifically the capital city of India, located within Delhi. They are often used interchangeably, but New Delhi refers to a specific part of the larger Delhi region.

What historical significance does Delhi have in ancient Indian history?

Delhi has historical significance dating back to the Mahabharata period, where it was believed to be the site of Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas.

Who is believed to have founded the city of Delhi?

The city of Delhi is believed to have been founded by King Dhilu, who established a city in the area. The city was named Delhi after him.

What major event occurred in Delhi around 1100 years after King Dhilu's reign?

Around 1100 years after King Dhilu's reign, King Tomar built a city in the region, which later became the site of the famous Lal Kot, a fortified city.

What impact did the Delhi Sultanate have on the city of Delhi?

The Delhi Sultanate, particularly under rulers like Qutb-ud-din Aibak and Ala-ud-din Khilji, made significant contributions to the city's development, including building structures like the Qutb Minar and strengthening the city's defenses.

What unusual decision did Muhammad bin Tughlaq make regarding Delhi?

Muhammad bin Tughlaq made an unusual decision to move the capital of his empire to a location in the south, thousands of kilometers away. This decision led to significant problems like unrest, disease, and failure, forcing him to eventually return to Delhi.

What did Firuz Shah Tughlaq contribute to the city?

Firuz Shah Tughlaq made several contributions to Delhi, including the construction of important buildings and infrastructure, which added to the city's historical and cultural richness.

How did the Mughal rulers impact the city of Delhi?

The Mughal emperors, especially Shah Jahan, played a pivotal role in shaping Delhi, constructing iconic structures such as Shahjahanabad and the Red Fort, solidifying the city's prominence in Indian history.

What major event took place in Delhi in 1911?

In 1911, the British decided to shift the capital of British India from Calcutta to Delhi, laying the groundwork for Delhi to become the political center of India under British rule.

When did India gain independence, and what symbolic event occurred in Delhi?

India gained independence on August 15, 1947. On this day, the tricolor flag was hoisted at the Red Fort, symbolizing India's freedom, and marking Delhi as the capital of independent India.