NEW DELHI-100 YEARS!!

An amalgamation of the glorious past with the bedazzling future!

From the narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques(in chawri bazar and chandni  chowk) to the spacious and sophisticated tree lined avenues and govt. buildings(defense colony and greater kailash)-Delhi has it all.

 Dilli dilwalon ki and Desilicious delhi are some of the very famous lingo associated with delhi. The city has become the hub of all the activities ranging from politics(seat of power in delhi), sports(recently held cwg games), social awareness(gay parades, Anna hazare's anti-corruption movement) to the world famous street food and theatres, plays and concerts. You name it and its there-thats what Delhi is all about!

Located on the banks of river Yamuna, Delhi celebrates its centenary as India's national capital on 12/12/2011. In the last few years, Delhi has witnessed stupendous changes in terms of foreign interest. Due to rapid urbanization and globalization, more and more foreigners are flocking in large numbers to explore the rich cultural heritage, of Delhi.

The population of Delhi is close to 16 million yet people of all races, cultures and ethnicities live harmoniously and bask in the warmth of love for each other, celebrating all festivals with great grandeur.

The recently held GWG games, although a national shame, brought massive changes in the city. The entire city bore a festive look, trying to cover up all the blots and dirty shams associated with the games, due to the vast amassment of wealth and resources allotted to it. CWG opened new ventures for people coming from flea sized countries (Namibia, Tonga etc) to goliath nations like US and UK. World class sports complexes were built, large scale beautifications, restoration and renovation of all major tourist destinations were done to promote tourism along with the games. Also the F1 race held in Noida is a classic example of the changing trends in the city and the acceptance of Delhi as a world class  city globally.

The India Gate, Chandni chowk, Jama Masjid, Akshardham Temple, Lotus Temple, Purana Quila, Qutab Minar are a few of the numerous tourist favourite hot-spots. The cHandni Chowk and CP soothe the nerves of every shopaholic, Jama masjid is India’s largest mosque, akshardham is a Hindu pilgrimage whereas Lotus temple is for the bahai religion. Every time you visit the India Gate you can reminisce the exorbitant valour demonstarted by the slain soldiers if the Indian Army.

 Also the world famous Dilli ka khana from the roadside dhabas to the posh restaurants , you can get a taste of heaven! The sumptuous food ranges from kachoris, jalebis, matar kulche, momos, kebabs and curries and so much more. The most interesting  part is that all the cuisines of the world are available in Delhi coupled with the street food make it all the more appealing to a westerner.

Medical tourism has seen a rapid rise , Westerners are flocking in large numbers to avail medical treatments from the hospitals in Delhi. The hospitals AIMS, MAMC are of world class standards with the state of the art facilities and infrastructure. Dedicated and highly qualified doctors along with a humble team of nurses and attendants make the treatment comfortable and a less painful experience. Also the money charged is miniscule as compared to the foreign nations.

Premier educational institutes like the IIT, MDI, FMS, IIPM etc are a national pride. Every year these institutes churn out the crème of the country by skimming out the best students in the nation.

There are new and gigantic residential complexes, shopping malls, flyovers sprawling with each passing day taht can put New York and Seoul to shame.

The annual Auto expo and trade fairs at Pragati Maidan are a must see for every visitor and resident in Delhi. Latest models of cars, which are every man's fantasy are displayed there. At the trade fair, fancy items which will attract eyeballs and make the fairer sex weaken their knees and loosen their wallet.

Regular plays and dramas featuring eminent actors and theatre personalities are regularly staged. these plays are based on a variety of genres and also many times on social awareness.

The various classical concerts and rock concerts provide an exhilarating experiences . Maestros like Pt. Ravi Shankar, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan etc. mesmerize audiences with their soul rendering music. Whereas Metallica and Lady Gaga give live wire performances to enthrall audiences.

In short Delhi presents plethora of many cultures, places, flavors and so much more.....

It will take your breath away with its scintillating beauty and yet give eternal peace by just being in it.

By:
Priyanka deb
pri.rinti@gmail.com