Aerial View Of Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, 1935 Photo
A 1935 aerial photograph with a stunning view of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, formerly Viceroy’s House, in New Delhi during the British era. New Delhi can be said to have been born on December 12, 1911. The great Durbar was drawing to a close. Towards the end, King George V rose and made a short announcement.
The king had said: “We have decided upon the transfer of the seat of the Government of India from Calcutta to the ancient capital of Delhi…” Thus, Delhi was to be the new capital of India, primarily because of its central location within India. Architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker were commissioned to design this new capital in 1911.
It took 20 years to build the city despite the delay caused by WWI and quarrels between Lutyens and Baker. The Viceroy’s House, also known as the Viceroy’s Palace or Government House, was designed by Edwin Lutyens. Situated at the crest of Raisina Hill, it is now the official residence of the President of India.
A vast copper-clad cupola rises over the center of this elegant beige and red sandstone building. The massive residence covers an area of 5 acres. The circular Durbar Hall, situated directly beneath the dome, where all important state ceremonies are held. To the west is the beautifully landscaped grounds include Rashtrapati Bhavan’s famed Mughal Gardens. Click photo to enlarge.
Did you know – the Rashtrapati Bhavan building is rumored to have secret tunnels, possibly for emergencies, though their exact locations remain unknown.
Past posts – Bombay Songstress Model For Ravi Varma’s Painting, 1900 PC., Boat Jetty & Backwaters Ernakulam/Cochin, 1950 Postcard., Flying Boat/Seaplane Service In British India – 2 Rare Prints 1948.,
