Once Upon a Time in Delhi: Discovering the Secrets of Its Many Cities

Nita Berry

The adventurous, the ambitious and the brave coveted its throne.

One invader after another crossed the mighty Himalayas to seek a fortune here.

A pivot of power down the ages, it fascinated both settlers and rulers, to become the capital of mighty empires.

Across centuries, the 'Delhi Triangle' of about 200 square kilometres became the base of many a powerful monarch, with a different name and location every time: Dillika, Siri, Tughlakabad, Jahanpanah, Firozabad, Purana Qila and Shahjahanabad. These seven cities gave the historic hub its grand, varied and colourful heritage.

A centre of learning and culture, art and architecture, and trade and commerce, it was a megalopolis like no other. In time, New Delhi emerged from the light and shadows of its past to become the eighth city – modern India's seat of government!

Among the oldest capital cities in the world, Delhi is a storehouse of legends and lore, history and mysteries, secrets and stories. Every nook and corner, pathway and rock here hides a tale – of triumph and defeat, riches and ruin; of builders, sculptors and artists, royalty and rebels; of saints and common folk, poets, writers and thinkers – waiting to be uncovered.

Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey of discovery?