Viceroy’s Camp At The Delhi Durbar, 1877 Photo
An 1877 photo of the Viceroy’s Camp at the Delhi Durbar of 1877. Variously known as the Imperial Assemblage, Delhi Durbar, Proclamation Durbar, etc. It shows the Viceroy’s Camp, with mounted soldiers busy in their duties. In the back are tents probably for their lodging. Faintly visible are canon on wheels and canon balls that are seen at the back.
The canons were probably for the use of ceremonial gun salute. Lord Lytton, the then Viceroy, organized this first of the durbars. To proclaim Queen Victoria with the title of “Empress of India”. The Delhi Durbars were grand spectacles not seen since the Moghul times. There were three, Delhi Durbars, such as in 1877, 1903, and 1911 all were held during the British colonial era.
The 1903 durbar was said to be the most opulent and grandest of them all. Viceroy Lord Curzon was the brain behind it. He gave meticulous attention to the smallest detail. Although amidst all the extravagance, India faced an unfortunate famine from 1876 to 1878. This is a rare photo from the Imperial Assemblage of 1877. Click on the photo for better view.
See post Grand Procession Delhi Durbar 1903 – Old Photo.
Did you know- Curzon took an active interest in military matters. In 1901, he founded the Imperial Cadet Corps or ICC. Better known as the NCC or National Cadet Corps today.
From the collection- Raja Ravi Varma’s Portrait Photo – Old Postcard 1904., Writer’s Building Calcutta – Old Postcard 1900., King George Lays Foundation Stone Mumbai – Old Print 1905., Mumbai Railway Suburban Services – Old Print 1955
