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Fun facts about Delhi include that it is the capital of India, often referred to as Dilwalon ki Dilli. It is a city with a rich history, culture, and traditions. Moreover, the architectural details still depict its journey over the years including the rule of the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, and the British Empire. Additionally, Delhi is famous for its amazing street food, local markets, and housing the three branches of the government of India. Here are some more fun facts about Delhi for students in English. You can also read bonus 10 interesting facts about Delhi.
10 Interesting Facts About Delhi for Students
Table of Contents
From historic landmarks to bustling markets, Delhi offers a vibrant mix of the old and new, making it a unique and exciting place to explore. Here are some interesting fun facts about Delhi for students:
1. Second Most Populated City in the World
With thousands of residents, Delhi stands as the second most populated city globally. This high population is a result of its economic opportunities, cultural significance, and role as a major urban centre in India.
2. A Leading Commercial Hub
Delhi is a major commercial center in northern India, excelling in trade, manufacturing, and services, making it a vital contributor to the region’s economy.
3. Delhi and New Delhi Are Different
Though often used interchangeably, Delhi is the larger territory, while New Delhi is the specific area serving as India’s official capital city.
4. Khari Baoli: Asia’s Largest Spice Market
Khari Baoli is Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. It is known for attracting lakhs of buyers who come to purchase a wide range of spices, herbs, and other ingredients.
5. Asia’s Largest Wholesale Market
Azadpur Mandi is Asia’s largest wholesale market for fruits and vegetables. Over 3000 trucks of produce are distributed daily, making it a vital part of Delhi’s food supply chain.
6. A Bird-Rich Capital City
Delhi ranks as the world’s second most bird-rich capital city, thanks to its numerous parks, gardens, and green spaces that support diverse bird species.
7. Delhi Metro’s Size
The Delhi Metro, spanning 193 kilometers, is the world’s 13th largest metro rail network, serving as an essential transportation system for millions of people.
8. Accessibility in Metro Stations
Yellow tracks at Delhi Metro stations are specially designed to assist visually impaired passengers, making the metro system more accessible and inclusive.
9. Hosting the Commonwealth Games
The 2010 Commonwealth Games held in Delhi were the most expensive edition to date, known for its grand scale and extensive infrastructure development.
10. Delhi’s Toilet Museum
Delhi features a unique toilet museum, called Sulabh International Museum Of Toilets. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of sanitation and hygiene practices throughout history.
11. Lotus Temple: Asia’s Only Bahai House
Facts about Lotus Temple include that it is Asia’s only Bahai House of Worship, symbolizing unity, peace, and the convergence of different religious beliefs.
12. CNG-Powered Public Transport
Delhi’s public transport system runs entirely on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), an eco-friendly fuel that helps reduce air pollution and improve the city’s air quality.
13. Qutub Minar is the Tallest Brick Minaret
Delhi is home to the world’s tallest brick minaret, the Qutub Minar, which stands at 73 meters high. This iconic structure, built in the 12th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
14. Indira Gandhi National Airport
Indira Gandhi National Airport is South Asia’s busiest airport, handling a large number of domestic and international flights. It serves as a major travel hub for both Indian and global travellers.
15. Indian Railway Junction
Delhi is home to the prime junction of Indian Railways, facilitating transport across the country. Its central location makes it an important hub for travellers heading to various parts of India.
16. Largest Public Transport System in India
Delhi boasts the largest public transportation system in India, ensuring that millions of people travel daily across the city through buses, metro, and auto-rickshaws.
17. Delhi: Second Bird Capital of the World
After Nairobi, Delhi is the world’s second most bird-rich capital. Its parks, gardens, and surrounding areas provide a perfect habitat for diverse bird species.
Also Read: 17 Interesting Facts About Sikkim
5 Historical Facts About Delhi for Students
Delhi has a long and diverse history, having been the capital of various empires. Here are some historical facts about Delhi you need to know:
1. Designed by Renowned Architects
The city was designed by British architects Sir Herbert Baker and Edwin Lutyens, leading to the nickname “Lutyens Delhi” in recognition of their architectural contributions.
2. Delhi’s Historical Gates
Delhi, once surrounded by 14 gates, now retains five of these iconic entry points: Kashmere Gate, Ajmeri Gate, Lahori Gate, Delhi Gate, and Turkman Gate, reflecting the city’s rich history.
3. Red Fort Was Originally White
Facts about Red Fort include that it was built using white limestone. However, itwas was later painted red by the British when the original colour started fading, giving it its current appearance.
4. Feroz Shah Kotla is the 2nd Oldest Cricket Stadium
Feroz Shah Kotla is the second oldest international cricket stadium in India. It holds a special place in cricket history and continues to host high-profile matches. The stadium was originally established in 1354 as an imperial capital by the emperor Firoz Shah Tughlaq.
5. Capital Shift from Calcutta to Delhi
In 1911, the British government decided to shift India’s capital from Calcutta to Delhi, officially making the change in 1912. This move played a key role in shaping Delhi’s political and cultural importance in India.
5 Fun Facts About Old Delhi
These are additional fun facts about Old Delhi that you must know:
- Jahanara Begum, the daughter of Emperor Shah Jahan, designed Chandani Chowk. It was created as a central market with a canal running through its centre, reflecting moonlight. Thus, the name Chandani was given.
- Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. The mosque can hold up to 25,000 People.
- Asia’s largest bridal shopping market is located in Old Delhi. The lanes of Kinari Bazaar and Dariba Kalan are famous places for wedding attire.
- Old Delhi still relies on cycle rickshaws for daily transportation.
- It is home to centuries-old havelis (traditional mansions) with courtyards and intricate woodwork.
10 Points About Delhi (Bonus)
These are 10 interesting facts about Delhi that you may have never heard of:
- Delhi is a city destroyed and rebuilt 7 times by different empires.
- The New Delhi World Book Fair is considered one of the largest book fairs in India. It is also one of the oldest book fairs in the world.
- It is home to India Gate- a war memorial dedicated to the 84,000 soldiers of the British Indian Army who died in World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War.
- The city has a village (Dilli Haat) that is completely dedicated to crafts
- Delhi was earlier known as Indraprasth, as per the ancient texts (For example, in the epic Mahabharata)
- It hosts Asia’s largest auto expo to showcase innovations in the auto industry
- The Delhi Ridge is also referred to as the “green lungs” of the city. It is the northern extension of the ancient Aravalli mountain range.
- It is called the street food capital of India
- It is home to prestigious universities like the IIT Delhi and Delhi University.
- It has an underground drainage system that was designed during the Mughal period,
FAQs
Delhi is home to Asia’s largest spice market, Khari Baoli, which attracts thousands of buyers daily, showcasing a rich variety of spices from across the world.
Delhi is best known for its historical landmarks like the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Qutub Minar, along with its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and the political and administrative capital of India.
India is the birthplace of yoga, has the world’s largest democracy, is home to the Taj Mahal, is the second-most populous country, and boasts over 2,000 distinct languages spoken across the nation.
Delhi offers iconic attractions like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, and the Lotus Temple, all showcasing its rich historical and cultural heritage.
Delhi is called “Mini India” because it reflects the diversity of the entire country, with people from all states, speaking various languages, and practicing different cultures and religions.
Delhi’s culture is a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. It is known for its rich history, vibrant festivals, diverse cuisine, art, and music, representing various regions and communities of India.
The Tomar Dynasty founded the city of Delhi. Tomar king Anangpal II has established the city around the 11th century AD. Its capital was present-day Qutub Minar and Mehrauli. He was also known as the founder of Dhillika Puri, which later became Delhi.
The ancient name of Delhi was Indraprasta. The name is mentioned in the Mahabharata. It is believed that it was the capital of the Pandavas and is said to have been built around 1400 BC.
Interesting Reads
Hope you enjoy reading these fun facts about Delhi. If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our Interesting Facts and General Knowledge page!
