The Inauguration Of New Delhi, 1931 Programme Card
A rare 1931 programme card of “The Inauguration of New Delhi”. In which the event of the unveiling of the dominion columns is mentioned in this programme card. This, 10th Feb 1931, card gives details and timing of each of the programmes that were conducted at the time. The unveiling of the four dominion columns on the Government Courts marked the inauguration of the secretariat on 10th February 1931.
The sandstone columns await the arrival of the viceroy to begin the ceremony. This and successive events in New Delhi were covered by the “Illustrated London News” and the French “L’illustration”. There were four dominion columns. These were presented by the dominions of Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa which were under the British Empire.
The columns were made out of red sandstone with each topped with a bronze ship. Which symbolized the Empire’s sea link. Some of the schedules mentioned in this programme card read — “10.30 AM-The Hon’ble Chief Commissioner of Delhi will arrive…The Ruling Princes and Chiefs will arrive…The Hon’ble Members of his excellency the Governor-General’s executive council will.
10.50 AM-His Excellency Sir Geoffrey de Montmorency will arrive. 10.53 AM-The Right Hon’ble Baron Hardinge of Penhurst will arrive. 10.55AM-The representatives of the Dominions will arrive….” and so on, see the scan for more of the interesting detailed schedule. Read a brief on the Dominion Column — Secretariat Complex.
Did you know- there is also a Jaipur Column which is in the middle of the courtyard in front of Rashtrapati Bhavan. It was gifted by the Maharaja of Jaipur.
From the collection- Vintage Raja Ravi Varma “Laxmi” Oleograph., Old Howrah Bridge Calcutta – Old Photo 1900., Aerial View of Flora Fountain Mumbai, 2 Old Postcards., Old Postcard – Railway Station & Steam Locomotive, Belgaum.
