Delhi Comic

Check out this autorickshaw. Doesn't it look like something out of a comic book? The 'eyes' give it a sort of funny startled look!

I spotted it early in the morning...and it made me smile. What a neat way to start the day.

Mornings in Delhi are special anyway.

Wide, tree-lined roads, birds, the city just s-l-o-w-ly getting to work...If you're in Delhi before winter, I think it is the best time of the day to get out and see a bit of the city.

Art in the daily life of Indian women

Somehow, when you talk about Indian art, you think of exquisite bronze sculpture or fine wood carving or Mughal miniatures...and you forget the everyday beauty that Indian women create in their homes, all across the land.
I am stunned by the variety and richness of Indian folk art whenever I encounter it.

How can one contiguous land mass spawn so many diverse styles, so many forms of aesthetic expression?

The point came home to me yet again when I saw a collection of photos of everyday life in Indian villages. The photographer is Dr. Stephen Huyler, an American who has spent 30 years in India, and published several books. The photo above is of a small hut in Kutch, Gujarat. It is from his book, Painted Prayers.

Here are some more photos from his collection: this one below is from Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. I was struck by the sophistication of the lady's sense of aesthetic - her eye for form and shape and contrast is undeniable. The way she is making her home rise from its desert surroundings is just stunning.And here is another photo from Sawai Madhopur, on the outskirts of Ranthambore Tiger Sanctuary. Walls and floors in this part of India are often decorated with elaborate drawings. I've seen life in that area of Rajasthan - the land is arid, life is hard I'm sure. And in the middle of it all is someone creating beauty and serenity.
And this, the last one below, from Tamil Nadu - what went through her mind, as she drew this? Did she feel the beauty? I have drawn smaller versions of these myself, with rice powder and rice paste, and I know how engrossing the activity is, and how much you can lose yourself in it.

These are just a small sample from Dr. Huyler's photos. He is writing another book now, called India's Daughters: Art and Identity. In his own words, this books is "a profile of 20 different Indian women from diverse backgrounds and professions all over India. Each is in some way an artist, although not all would consider themselves as such. It is a much more personal survey than Painted Prayers, attempting to give voice to Indian women's empowerment through their own words, stories and art."

Landmark - Fact & Fiction, Basant Lok

This place has attitude. While other bookshops sex up their appeal by setting in-house cafés, customers here can’t even carry a softy. And no mobile phones, please. In Fact & Fiction, rules are rules. Thank you very much.

Delhi’s most eclectic bookstore faces the Capital’s most popular hangout — Priya cinema in Basant Lok Market. On entering, try not to bother Mr Ajit Vikram Singh, the owner. He is perhaps browsing on his Compaq laptop or reading The New York Review of Books. Else, he is listening to John Mayall on his iPod.

Walk straight, reach the end and turn left. Tonnes of travel books — conventional (Wilfred Thesiger’s Arabian Sands), crazy (Dervla Murphy’s Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle), and weird (Kate Marsden’s On Sledge and Horseback to Outcast Siberian Lepers).

If you are into contemporary fiction, turn back towards the glass door. Rotate the moving shelf and pick the latest Alice Munro or Joyce Carol Oates. You like whodunnits? That too is here. No, you’re into sci-fis? Just turn right.

The crème de la crème is on the lower right side of Mr Singh’s desk. Here you’ll spot the who's who of food writing, from MFK Fisher to James Beard to Michael Pollan.

But it’s not books alone that matters. The store would be nothing without Mr Singh. As a child, he would regularly go to Jor Bagh’s The Book Shop, another charming joint in the city. There he would look around in awe.

After growing up and having his fill of the high life — studying at Mayo College, graduating from St Stephen's and running a sugar factory in western Uttar Pradesh, Mr Singh opened Fact & Fiction in 1983. Since then his shop has built a solid reputation while he himself is considered, by a few, as... how to put it, eccentric.

One guy told me how on asking for a title, Mr Singh “not only frowned but also said that I should make sure the name is correct.” Another blames Mr Singh’s “lack of warm heartedness to him being a real prince of Mayo.” However, I’m told that by the third visit, Mr Singh does start smiling. That is if he likes you.

“Most of my differences happen with customers due to their ill treatment of books,” Mr Singh tells me. “A bookshop requires a certain amount of sanctity and sometimes I have people rushing in with dripping ice cream cones.”

That he is not a chatty type adds to the 'reputation'. It ruffles the ego of those who expect fawning-grovelling treatment just because they have been so kind as to enter his shop. But here Mr Singh is king. And he is kind. If a book catches your fancy and you are not carrying money, he reserves it for you.

Now, back to books. Step back and turn right. Poetry section. Basho. Allen Ginsberg. Anna Akhmatova. A translation of... modern German poetry! Who in Delhi would buy it? “The collection must have a good mix,” Mr Singh says. “Only then readers could discover new writing.”

Over the years, I, too, discovered many authors in this 300 sqft space. Once I discovered a secret attic when Mr Singh walked to the wall behind me and... disappeared! There was actually a false door and inside — I managed a peek — were lots of books.

That was a glimpse worth living for but this place, why oh why, offers no discounts. Naturally, after making your payment, you may not wish to return. Mr Singh needn’t worry, though. If you love books, you’ll be back soon.

City Secret – Gole Park, Windsor Place

You can cross the entire Gole Park in Central Delhi’s Windsor Place in five minutes flat. It is a traffic roundabout. While there are the usual trees, flowers, grass and bird calls, there is no getting away from the city. You may clap a hand over your ears to shut out the traffic roar, but you will still see the towering Le Meridian hotel on one side, and hotel Shangri La on the other. The park is not perfect. There are bald patches on the lawn and a little bridge straddles a dry pond.

Yet, this park soothes our senses. Though nothing like Safdarjang Enclave’s Deer Park or the North Campus ridge, the impure serenity of Gole Park improvises itself like a jazz tune. Within a few minutes, the garden reveals the subtle beauties of our urban lives – clipped hedges, watered plants, pruned trees and a mouthful of sky tucked amid the tall buildings, rushing cars and big-city anonymity. Falling leaves, red bougainvilleas and kuerjia trees in full bloom celebrate nature, even as the skyscrapers stand as an ode to concrete.

Between the branches, windows glisten. The green of the grass contrasts with the yellow of the public buses. The mynah’s cooing blends in with the impatience of horns. Purists will hate such man-made intrusions; but then, they must leave the cities. If you love the wilds and are prepared to accept the skyline, this park gives you the best of both worlds.

However, for Delhi, Gole Park is like an arthouse film – its merits appreciated by very few. Apart from a loner or a traffic cop, the only people in the park are usually the four gardeners. “At the most, 10 people come here daily,” says gardener Sandeep, “and that, too, in the evenings.”

Most people go to larger spaces that are, conventionally speaking, more beautiful. Favoured by ministers, bureaucrats and expats, Lodhi Garden and Nehru Park – both in Chanakaypuri – are sleeker and more fashionable. Buddha Park in Dhaula Kuan is like an escape from the city. In the Indraprastha Park, near the ITO, there is a nice pagoda. The Children’s Park in the India Gate maidan has swings, slides and merry-go-rounds. All these places cut you off from the city. Perhaps you need their isolation each time you are attacked by Nehru Place claustrophobia. The Central Park in Connaught Place could not be a cure. Too many people sunning themselves there and busy showrooms are just metres away.

But in Gole Park, the urban and the sylvan live in harmony. This must become a destination for all those who love nature but do not want to flee the city.

REPUBLIC DAY

One of the three national holidays in India, Republic Day is celebrated with great pomp and show throughout the nation each year. Preparations begin almost a month before for the actual day. A massive parade is held which reflects a touch of modernity in the display of might and technology and the capabilities of growth in various sectors. While the parade symbolizes the power and force, the different regional tableaus reflect the cultural themes and motifs. Republic Day has a very significant place in the Indian history as India became a ‘Republic’ from a ‘British Dominion’ on this very day. Browse through the following lines to know all about the history and origin of Republic Day.

Origin of Republic Day

India became independent from the British Rule on 15th August, 1947. However, the country did not have its own constitution and wholly depended on the modified colonial Government of India Act, 1935. Also, India was headed by King George VI, until the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950. Prior to this, the seeds of a republican nation were sowed by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru in the Lahore session at the Indian National Congress at the midnight of 31st December, 1929 - 1st January, 1930. The tri-color flag was unfurled by the nationalists present who took a pledge to celebrate ‘Purna Swaraj’ (complete Independence) Day every year on 26th January, while continuing to fight for the establishment of a Sovereign Democratic Republic of India.

The independence was achieved in 1947 while the professed pledge was redeemed on 26th January, 1950. The Indian Constituent Assembly was called together on 9th December, 1946, where a committee was formed. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar became the chairman of the committee, who along with the other members drafted the Constitution. The Indian Constitution included 395 Articles and 8 Schedules. The Constitution was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 26th November, 1949. In the following year on 26th January, 1950, the Constitution of India came into force and became a ‘sovereign democratic republic’ of India, 894 days after the withdrawal of British Rule in 1947, which is why, it is said that India achieved its true independence on this day.

Next, elections were held and Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the first President of free India. He took the oath at the Durban Hall in the Government House, which was followed by the Presidential drive along the five-mile route to the Irwin Stadium. He unfurled the National Flag at the stadium. This transition of India into a sovereign democratic republic nation is indeed a historical event. The two decade long journey, right from the conceptualization of the dream in 1930 to its actual realization in 1950, is certainly worth a grand celebration. Today, the Indian Constitution is the longest in the world, consisting of 397 articles and 12 schedules, providing a single citizenship for the whole nation. The national holiday is celebrated with festivities and patriotic fervor across the whole nation.

Today, the Republic Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm all over the country and especially in the capital, New Delhi where the celebrations start with the Presidential to the nation. The beginning of the occasion is always a solemn reminder of the sacrifice of the martyrs who died for the country in the freedom movement and the succeeding wars for the defense of sovereignty of their country. Then, the President comes forward to award the medals of bravery to the people from the armed forces for their exceptional courage in the field and also the civilians, who have distinguished themselves by their different acts of valour in different situations.

To mark the importance of this occasion, every year a grand parade is held in the capital, from the Rajghat, along the Vijaypath. The different regiments of the army, the Navy and the Air force march past in all their finery and official decorations even the horses of the cavalry are attractively caparisoned to suit the occasion. The crème of N.C.C cadets, selected from all over the country consider it an honour to participate in this event, as do the school children from various schools in the capital. They spend many days preparing for the event and no expense is spared to see that every detail is taken care of, from their practice for the drills, the essential props and their uniforms.

The parade is followed by a pageant of spectacular displays from the different states of the country. These moving exhibits depict scenes of activities of people in those states and the music and songs of that particular state accompany each display. Each display brings out the diversity and richness of the culture of India and the whole show lends a festive air to the occasion. The parade and the ensuing pageantry is telecast by the National Television and is watched by millions of viewers in every corner of the country.
The patriotic fervor of the people on this day brings the whole country together even in her essential diversity. Every part of the country is represented in occasion, which makes the Republic Day the most popular of all the national holidays of India.

Gurdwara Sis Ganj shahib

Built on the site where the Mughals beheaded Sikh Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1675, Gurdwara Sis Ganj commemorates the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur. It is situated in the Chandni Chowk area of Old Delhi.

According to the legend, Guru Tegh Bahadur was beheaded by Mughal emperor, Auranzeb, as he refused to convert to Islam. On his death, no one dared to pick up his body. Suddenly, sky became clouded, followed by a heavy downpour.

Then, two of his brave disciples fled with his head and body. The head of the Guru was taken to Chakk Nanaki in Anandpur Sahib, while the body was taken to Rakab Ganj Gurudwara.

It was only a century later, that a zealous devotee, named Baba Baghel Singh, found this place and built a Gurdwara here. One can still see the trunk of the tree under which the Guru was martyred as well as the well where he took his daily bath while being imprisoned.

In 1705, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib visited this shrine and appointed Bhai Gurbakhsh Das Udasi as its caretaker. It is also claimed that the central pedestal of this shrine is actually the oldest structure of Chakk Nanaki, which received Guruji’s head, situated at Anandpur Sahib. This place is also known as Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib.

National Gandhi Museum

Mahatma Gandhi was one of the most charismatic leaders in Indian history. He lived from 1869 -1948, when he was assassinated by Nathuram Godse while climbing the steps to address a prayer meeting. Gandhi was the political and spiritual leader of India during its Independence Movement away from the British Empire. He strongly believed in and practiced non-violent forms of protest, including fasting, and inspired forms of peaceful protest worldwide. In India he is seen as the Father of the Nation and his birthday, October 2nd, is a national holiday. Internationally, October 2nd is marked as the Day of Non-Violence.

As soon as he was killed, devotees began collecting documents, books, manuscripts, personal relics, photographs and other artifacts from Ghandi’s life to make an historic collection. In 1961, the current museum was inaugurated in the current location opposite the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, a memorial at the place where he was cremated on the Raj Ghat.

The National Gandhi Museum or Gandhi Memorial Museum is a museum located in New Delhi, India showcasing the life and principles of Mahatma Gandhi. The museum first opened in Mumbai, shortly after Gandhi was assassinated in 1948. The museum relocated several times before moving to Rajghat, New Delhi in 1961.

History

Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948. Shortly after his death, collectors began searching India for anything of importance about Gandhi. Originally the personal items, newspapers, and books related to Gandhi were taken to Mumbai. In 1951, the items were moved to buildings near the Kota House in New Delhi. The museum moved again in 1957 to a mansion.

In 1959, The Gandhi Museum moved for a final time to Rajghat, New Delhi next to the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi. The museum officially opened in 1961, on the 13th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination, when Dr. Rajendra Prasad, then President of India, formally opened the new location.

Special Exhibitions

In addition to the museum’s Gandhi based permanent collection, the museum also showcases other exhibits mainly dealing with the history of India. Most exhibits are based on Indian political leaders, and peace movements, though major world events also have collections.

Gurdwara Rakab Ganj

Gurdwara Rakab Ganj was built in 1732 by Lakhi Banjara, the devotee who performed the last rites of the martyred Guru Teg Bahadur. It is located on the Pant Road in New Delhi, facing the Parliament House. An interesting legend is attached to Gurdwara Rakab Ganj. It is said that Guruji were executed on the orders of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, for not converting to Islam. After he was beheaded, Lakhi Singh escaped with the body of Guruji to his home & cremated the body and later set fire to the house to remove any evidences. When the fire extinguished, he put the holy ashes in an urn and buried it on that site itself.

Gurdwara Rakab Ganj was built there to commemorate the event. It is said that at that time, the area was a market for stirrups – the ‘stirrup’ is known as ‘Rakab’ and ‘market’ is known as ‘Ganj’. Thus, the name of the shrine as Rakab Ganj Gurdwara! The Gurdwara, with a white building and the prominent domes, holds an important place in the Sikh community of India. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens on all sides. It has four entrances, depicting that it is open to all without any distinction of caste, creed or religion. The gigantic Gurdwara took 12 years to build, at a cost of 25 lakh.

Ashoka Pillar

Asoka’s pillars are basically a series of pillars that are spread all over the northern part of the Indian sub continent.

These pillars were set up during the time Emperor Ashoka reigned in India. Most of the pillars, though damaged to some extent still stand upright and are protected by the concerned authorities. Out of all the pillars, the most famous is the Ashokan pillar located at Sarnath.

Most of King Asoka’s pillars have inscriptions of Ashoka’s Dhamma or philosophies. Read further about the famous Ashoka Pillar. The pillar at Sarnath is believed to mark the site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon.


It is said to be place where Buddha taught Dharma to five monks. The pillar at Sarnath has an edict inscribed on it that reveals information about Ashoka’s stand against divisions of any sort in the society. When translated, it says “No one shall cause division in the order of monks”. The pillar at Sarnath is made of sandstone and is maintained in proper shape even today.

The appearance of the pillar is quite imposing. At the base of the pillar is an inverted lotus flower which forms a platform for the pillar. At the top of the pillar are four lions sitting back to back facing the four prime directions.

Other illustrations on the pillar include the Dharma Chakra (Wheel) with 24 spokes which can be seen on the Indian national flag as well. All illustrations have their own meaning and significance. There are four animals illustrated on the pillar. They stand for the following:

The illustration of an Elephant signifies Lord Buddha’s conception. When Buddha was conceived, his mother dreamt that a white elephant had entered the womb.
A Bull illustrated on the pillar signifies the zodiac sign of Taurus as it is said that Buddha was born during the month of April – May and also attained enlightenment during this time. The Bull also stands as a symbol of Lord Shiva.
The Horse stands for the horse named Kanthaka that Buddha rode when he departed from his palace to practice asceticism and attain enlightenment.
The Lion that is illustrated signifies the attainment of enlightenment.

JAMA MASJID

Shah Jahan, as his final architectural extravagance, built one of the largest mosques in India, Jama Masjid.

It is situated in Old Delhi area of the capital. Also known as Masjid-i-Jahan Numa, it was the principal mosque of the Emperor. Owing to its huge size, it took six years to be fully complete. Situated on a high platform, the austere, yet beautiful, building was built in red sandstone, with extensive use of white marble.

The pulpit of Jama Masjid has been beautifully carved out of a single block of marble. It has three gateways, four soaring towers and two minarets. The 130-ft high slender minarets of the mosque grace its impressive façade.The eastern gate was once reserved for the Emperor. Wide staircases and arched gateways greet the visitors of the mosque. The relics of the Prophet and the Holy Koran are enshrined here and its courtyard can hold up to 25,000 worshippers at one go. Designed by Ustad Khalil, the great sculptor of his time, it was built at an astounding cost. However, the greatest treasure of the Jama Masjid is, undoubtedly, the hair of the beard of Hazrat Mohammed, kept in the northeast corner of the white shrine.

It also preserves his used chappal (slippers), a chapter of Koran taken from its original holy book, the canopy of his tombstone and the foot print of Muhammad on the stone.The main Imam in this mosque is the direct descendent of the original and first Imam appointed by Emperor Shah Jahan.

One can enter inside the mosque bare-footed only, with the head covered and wearing ‘lungi’ (a traditional wear of Muslims, worn during offering prayers to the Lord). During his reign, Emperor Shah Jahan built many other important mosques in Agra, Ajmer and Lahore. The grand building of Jama Masjid has stood the test of time and stands undeterred, reminding about the glory of the bygone era.

Raj Ghat

Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi is one of the most visited sites in Delhi. It consists of a simple square black-marble platform that stands on the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated.

Nearby, there are cremation sites of Jawaharlal Nehru – the first Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri.

Raj Ghat is situated to the south of Red Fort and is very peaceful. The black marble tomb is inscribed by the words ‘Hey Ram!’, the last words that were spoken by Mahatma Gandhi, as he fell down after being shot by Nathuram Godse. The whole edifice of the Samadhi reflects the simple and nature-loving personality of the great leader. The cenotaph stands surrounded by earthworks that protect it from the flooding of the Yamuna. These walls have resulted in the open space of the memorial being converted into an enclosed garden.

It is customary to circumambulate the tomb three times. The powerful spiritual aura of the place touches one’s heart. This national shrine has an eternal flame and the sandstone walls enclosing it are inscribed with various passages written by Gandhi. The entire area of Rajghat stands surrounded by trees and here, one can see some of the most exotic shrubs of the country. This greenery is what lends such a serene aura to the Samadhi. The affairs of the Rajghat are being managed by an autonomous statutory body.

It is known by the name of Rajghat Samadhi Committee and was created by an Act of Parliament in 1951. One can also visit the National Gandhi Museum in the vicinity, which houses a collection of rare photographs and trivia related to Gandhiji. Vijay Ghat is the memorial of Prime Minister Lal Bhadur Shastri, while Indira Gandhi was cremated in Shakti Sthal. Rajeev Gandhi followed his mother’s footsteps and was the most beloved Prime Minister of India, when he was slaughtered in a terrorist attack.

Mughal Gardens

Sprawled across six hectares of the Rashtrapati Bhavan Complex, the famous Mughal Gardens were designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens for Lady Harding. These gardens combine the formal Moghul style with the British garden designs.

Delhi Mughal Gardens sport Mughal canals, multi-level terraces and flowering shrubs along with European flowerbeds, lawns and privet hedges. W. R. Mustoe can be credited with planting the appropriate shrubs, plants and trees in the garden.

Together, the two masterminds transformed it into an oasis by 1929. The Gardens consist of three parts – the Rectangular Garden immediately behind the main building, the Long Garden and the Circular Garden. A virtual paradise, it has four waterways, with unique fountains at the intersections that consist of 3-tiered huge red sandstone discs resembling lotus leaves. Plots of lawn and chequered flowerbeds lend an enchanting look to this wonderfully landscaped garden.

In the Long Garden, there is a splendid Pergola on which bougainvillea creepers are grown. The bed of roses and trimmed hedge of Ingadulets on its sides look like colored knots on a vast carpet. The segmented, tiered flowerbeds around the pool in the Circular Garden are the best place to see butterflies. Thus, it is also known as the Pearl Garden or Butterfly Garden. The variety of flowers found here includes Rose, Viscaria, Teptosyne, Sweet William, Oxalis, Marigold and Bougainvillea and several other Annuals and Perennials.

It has more than 250 rose varieties at one place, including the Benkinsian, believed to be the parent of all strains, 60 kinds of Bougainvillea, the best and largest collection of Indian marigold flowers and Dahlias of 13 different colors-some of which even look like peppermint. Besides these, there are special Moulsari trees, chosen by Lutyens because of their Indian origin.The Bonsai collection here is undoubtedly one of the finest in the country. One can only visit these gardens during the months of February to March, except on Mondays

Purana Qila, Delhi

Purana Qila (Old Fort), is the inner citadel of the city of Dina-panah, founded by the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun in 1533 and completed five years later. Purana Qila and its environs flourished as the sixth city of Delhi.Sher Shah Suri defeated Humayun in 1540, and renamed the fort as Shergarh, and also added several more structures in the complex, during his reign that lasted for the next five years until his death in 1545.

Subsequently Islam Shah took over the reigns of North India from this fort, but later shifted his capital to Gwalior, as it was supposed to be a safer capital in that period. After Islam Shah’s death in 1553, Adil Shah took the charge of North India, and this fort remained neglected. Adil Shah shifted his capital to further east to Chunar in present day Uttar Pradesh. Humayun, who was based in Kabul got an opportunity to re-capture the citadel and the seat of Delhi in 1555, fifteen year after he had to leave it, though his reign didn’t last long, he died only a year later in Jan. 1556, due to a tragic accident, within the fort complex at Sher Mandal.

Hearing about re-capture of Delhi by Humanyun, Hemu, the Hindu Prime Minister – cum – Chief of Army of Adil Shah Suri rushed towards Delhi from Bengal, where he had just quelled a rebellion, defeating and killing Muhhamad Shah, the ruler of Bengal. After capturing Agra, Itawah, Kanpur easily, the battle for Delhi took place in Tuglaqabad area on 6th Oct. 1556, and Hemu, who had won 22 battles spanning entire north India, defeated the forces of Akbar which were led by Tardi Beg Khan. Hemu had his ‘Rajyabhishake’ or Coronation at Purana Quila on 7th Oct. 1556, declared ‘Hindu Raj’ in North India, and was bestowed the title of Samrat Hem Chandra Vikramaditya.Hemu, who was slain and killed at the Second battle of Panipat in Nov. 1556 had his torso hung outside this fort to create terror among Hindus.

Humayun’s Tomb

The second Mughal Emperor Humayun died just a year after he regained Delhi. His Persian wife, Hamida Begum, supervised the construction of his tomb from 1562-1572. It was designed by the Persian architect, Mirak Mirza Ghiyuath. Situated on the bank of River Yamuna and adjoining the shrine of the famous Sufi saint Nizam al-Din Auliya, this tomb is said to have been a precedent of later Mughal mausoleums in India. The geometrically arranged gardens intersected with numerous water channels present a paradise setting.

The tomb took eight years to build and had a Char Bagh Garden style in its design, the first of its kind in the region. These were later introduced in the Red Fort of Delhi and at the Taj Mahal of Agra. Persian architectural traits are also evident in the building and its main chamber is said to be inspired from the tomb of the Persian Mongol ruler, Oljeytu, at Sultaniyya. The tomb of Timur (Tamerlane) in Samarkand is also said to be the source of inspiration for the Mughal architecture in India.

In the central domed chamber, the sarcophagus of Humayun is found. According to Islamic practice, his head is pointing south, and facing east. The vaulted chambers also contain tombs that were added later. These tombs contain symbols that provide complete information about their occupant. The sarcophagi are not usually inscribed, but these tombs are believed to be containing the remains of the wives of Humayun, along with several later Mughal emperors and princes.

The name of Humayun’s tomb is found in the list of UNESCO Heritage buildings and was the first Indian building to use the Persian double dome. Its harmonious proportions are undoubtedly the work of skilled craftsmen. Set upon a platform, it exhibits certain Indian architectural features too, such as the small kiosks or ‘chhatris’ on the roof. The attractive inlaid tile work is carved intricately using Indian and Persian patterns and elements. Its carved stone screens are praiseworthy for their delicate look.

Humayun’s Tomb ( 1565-72 AD )

Humayun’s tomb is a world heritage site located in Delhi city. This tomb can easily reached by visiting from any part of Delhi and is very close to Hazrat Nizamuddin Indian railway station ( station code NZM within Delhi city). The railway station announcements can be heard from the tomb. Delhi airport is the nearest airport. This place can be visited within a one day tour of Delhi. For a causal visitor it will take one hour minimum to complete the visit of this tomb. Beautiful gardens are maintained by archeological survey of India around the tomb area. You can spend some more time in the green lawns of the tomb.


The main structure of Humauns Tomb standing on a platform of 12000 sq meter area has a height of 47 meter. This tomb is an earliest example of Persian Influence on Indian architecture. The main credit of building this tomb goes to Hamida Banu Begum the widow of Humaun.

While entering to gardens of Humayuns Tomb at your right there is another tomb and mosque located within a complex with high wall surrounding it. You can walk over this compound wall. This is the tomb of Isa Khan Niyazi a noble in the court of Sher Shah Sur. This octagonal tomb has some attractive canopies, glazed titles and lattice screens.

West Gate

Before the main structure there is a 16 meter tall gate designed to maintain symmetry in all sides was used by Mughals as an ornamental cosmic symbol.

Arab Serai Gate ( 1560 – 61 AD )

Persian craftsmen came to Delhi to construct the Humayuns Tomb.They were staying in beautiful house built in red.



stand stone and white marble. There is a 14 meter high gate to enter to this complex. This complex is located at right side while approaching to Humayuns tomb.

Aga Khan Trust for culture and founded and collaborated by Archaeological survey of India has revitalized the 30 acre garden around this monument and the structures during the year 2000 and 2003.

Entry is free for Kids upto the age of 15 years. For Indians the entry fee is Rs 10-/ (rupees ten only) and for foreign nationals it is US $5 or Rs 250/-. For SAARC countries it is Rs 10-/ only. Entry is open from sunrise to sunset.

Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar Situated at Connaught Place area of New Delhi, Jantar Mantar is one of the five observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler and founder of Jaipur, in India. Smaller than the one at Jaipur, it is still astonishing because of its capability to make accurate calculations of many astronomical movements. Constructed in 1724, the giant abstract masonry instruments of Jantar Mantar are the evident of the technological genius of the times in the field of astronomy. Jai Singh was a keen astronomer and a noble in the Mughal court.

He was dissatisfied by the brass and metal astronomical instruments and decided to correct and update the astronomical records with more accurate instruments. He built five Jantar Mantars in India, located at Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi, Ujjain and Mathura. Jantar Mantar of New Delhi was built with a view to help the practicing astronomers in observing the movements of the Sun, Moon and all other planets. The relevance of this science would then be introduced to the general public.

The Sun dial here dominates the par and is also known as the Samrat Yantra or Brihat Samrat yantra – the huge sundial. A striking structure in yellow on the right side, it has a 27m high arm adjusted at an angle of 27 degrees. The other yantras in this observatory are used to observe the various stars and planets. The Mishra Yantra helps to determine the longest and shortest days in the year. In December, one pillar overshadows the other and in June, it does not cast any shadow at all.

When compared to others, this observatory is the largest and the best preserved today. But, after its erection in 1724, it remained functional only for seven years. Observations made each day were noted down and later a chart called Zij Muhammad Shahi was prepared. This was then dedicated to the reigning monarch. Many experts in this field are of the view that these observatories fell into disuse, because of lack of thought on the part of the king. The original name Yantra (instrument) mantra (formula) has been corrupted to Jantar Mantar.

Gurdwara Majnu ka Tila

Gurdwara Majnu ka Tila is situated on the Grand Trunk Road, in the Timarpur region of New Delhi. This shrine is dedicated to Guru Nanak, who hallowed this place during his visit to Delhi in the 15th century. The small structure was expanded in the 1980s to a larger white marble structure, with a cusped dome. It was also proposed to be covered with gold leaf work, later. There is an interesting story associated with Majnu ka Tila Gurudwara. According to the tale, a Muslim hermit used to live on this hillock, during the reign of Sikander Lodhi.

He used to row people across River Yamuna free of charge. He so yearned for the glimpse of God that the local people called him ‘Majnu’. It is said that he finally attained enlightenment by the blessings of Guru Nanak and became his devout disciple. Since then, his hermitage came to be known as Majnu ka Tila. The devout love of Majnu towards God and his radiant spirit finally led to the construction of this shrine, to commemorate him and Guru Nanak. On Baisakhi, a ‘langar’ is arranged here every year, to celebrate the birth of Khalsa.

FASHION WORLD

The applied art on lifestyle and clothing accessories created within the social and cultural influences of a particular time is Fashion Design.

Costume Design is the core product of the fashion houses in Delhi. The fashion designers follow the fashion trends of the specific time or create new trend for the season. Fashion industry is booming not only in Delhi but also across the globe. The Fashion shows like the Lakme Fashion week and many others have given the hype to the deserving Fashion Houses in Delhi.

Asmi Fashion House
Address : C-2, 1st Floor,
Nr Sai Chowk, Mayur Vihar,
New Delhi – 110091
Mobile : +(91)-9868215925

Aval Fashion House
Address : A-33, PH-2, Naraina,
New Delhi – 110028
Phone : +(91)-(11)-41417879
Alisha Fashion House
Address : Noida, Noida – 201301
Phone : +(91)-9871650037

Amar Fashion House
Address : E-86, Shiv Vihar Nitholi Extn,
Jamindar Properties, Paschim Vihar,
New Delhi – 110 063
Phone : +(91)-9818278911

B G Fashioners
Address : SCF-46-48, Baldev Plaza,
Sec-15, Faridabad – 121001 (NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(129)-4076455

Bombay Fashion House
Address : 1240, Sangatrashan Bazaar,
Pahar Ganj, New Delhi – 110055
Phone : +(91)-(11)-23585569

City Fashion
Address : Main Mkt, Old Faridabad,
Faridabad – 121001 (NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(129)-4071318

Daizy Dale Fashion House
Address : A-3/25, Navbharat,
Paschim Vihar, Delhi – 110063
Phone : +(91)-(11)-65447534

Eastern Fashions
Address : RZ-906/24,
Tughalaqabad Extension,
New Delhi – 110019
Phone : +(91)-(11)-26052121

Fashion Cloth House
Address : Shop No-3, Moladband School,
Om Nagar, Badarpur,
New Delhi – 110044
Phone : +(91)-9350587808

Fashion Belt House
Address : 5138/A, 2nd Floor, Rui Mandi,
Behind Westend Cinema,
Sadar Bazar, New Delhi – 110006
Phone : +(91)-(11)-23551729

Fashion Jewellery House
Address : Shop No14/1, Central Market,
Ashok Vihar – 1, New Delhi – 110052
Phone : +(91)-(11)-64119977

Femella Fashion
Address : Fa-16, 1st Floor,
Crown Plaza, Sec-15A,
Faridabad – 121001 (NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(129)-4012497

Glamour House Of Fashions
Address : D3/2, Lal Quarter,
Krishna Nagar, New Delhi – 110051
Phone : +(91)-(11)-22417038

Himani The Fashion Shop
Address : 4, Pocket A,
Mayur Vihar Phase II,
New Delhi – 110091
Phone : 011 22785296

Institute Of Fashion Trendz
Address : JOP Plaza, 1st Floor,
Sector – 18, Noida – 201301 (NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(120)-3052010
Kanshi Ram Madan LAL
Address : Gurgaon, Gurgaon – 122001 (NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(124)-2320353

Modern Garments And Wool Shop
Address: 52, Sarojani Nagar Market,
New Delhi – 110023
Phone: +(91)-(11)-26882004

Perfection House
Address : 7, 1st Floor,
M G Road, Gurgaon – 122001 (NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(124)-4375005

Regal Fashion House
Address : C-76,6, Opp. Gurdwara Road,
Hari Nagar, New Delhi – 110064
Phone : +(91)-(11)-65747609
RKF Fashion House
Address : Udyog Vihar,
Gurgaon – 122001 (NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(124)-4030749

Sia Home Fashion
Address : DLF Place Mall,
221A/222, 1st Floor, Saket,
New Delhi – 110017
Phone : +(91)-(11)-46102705

Springz
Address : K-40, Central Mkt,
Lajpat Nagar 2, New Delhi – 110024
Phone : +(91)-(11)-65271883

Super Fashion
Address : I-1, Dlf Indl Area,
Faridabad – 121001 (NCR)
Phone : +(91)-1292274294
Vasari Fashion House
Address : 15-A/54, Ajmal Khan Rd,
Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005
Phone : +(91)-(11)-25744199 Younique Fashion 4 Ever
Address: F-142, Rajouri Garden,
New Delhi – 110027
Phone: +(91)-(11)-25442984

Foreign Embassies

New Delhi, the capital city of India, houses foreign embassies of practically all the major nations in the world. There are also a number of consulates and high commissions here. If you are a foreign tourist, then, these administrative offices can be of great help to you. A majority of the embassies are located in Chankyapuri and Vasant Vihar area of New Delhi. The consular offices manage the allotment of visas and other necessary information for the convenience of the tourists.

Given below is a list of the major international embassies, consulates and high commissions in Delhi.

Afghanistan Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Libya Embassy
Golf Links, New Delhi

Argentina Embassy
Vasant Vihar, New Delhi.

Mexico Embassy
Sardar Patel Marg Chanakyapuri 110021 New Delhi.

Algeria Embassy
Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi

Myanmar Embassy
Nyaya Marg, New Delhi

Belgium Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri,New Delhi

Namibia Embassy
Vasant Vihar, New Delhi

Bulgaria Embassy
Chanaragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.

Nepal Embassy
Barakhamba Road, New Delhi

Brazil Embassy
Aurangzeb Road, New Delhi

Netherlands Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Cambodia Embassy
Panchsheel Marg, Soami Nagar, New Delhi

New Zealand Embassy
Nyaya Marg, New Delhi

China Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Norway Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Cuba Embassy
Vasant Vihar, New Delhi

Palestine Embassy
Vasant Vihar, New Delhi

Czech Republic Embassy
Niti Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Peru Embassy
Vasant Vihar, New Delhi

Denmark Embassy
Aurangzeb Road, New Delhi

Philippines Embassy
Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Egypt Embassy
Niti Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Poland Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Finland Embassy
Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Portugal Embassy
Sunder Nagar, New Delhi

France Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Qatar Embassy
Anand Niketan, New Delhi

Germany Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Russia Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Greece Embassy
Sunder Nagar, New Delhi

Saudi Arabia Embassy
South Extension-II, New Delhi

Indonesia Embassy
Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

South Africa Embassy
Vasant Marg, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi

Iran Embassy
Barakhamba Road, New Delhi

Spain Embassy
Prithvi Raj Road, New Delhi

iraq Embassy
Jor Bagh, New Delhi

Sudan Embassy
Poorvi Marg, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi

Ireland Embassy
Jor Bagh, New Delhi

Sweden Embassy
Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Israel Embassy
Golf Link, New Delhi

Switzerland Embassy
Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Japan Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Thailand Embassy
Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Jordan Embassy
Shantiniketan, New Delhi

Turkey Embassy
Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Korea Republic Embassy
Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Ukraine Embassy
176, Jor Bagh, New Delhi-03

Kuwait Embassy
Shantipath, New Delhi.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy
Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Lebanon Embassy
Sardar Patel Marg, New Delhi

United States of America (USA) Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Vietnam Socialist Republic Embassy
Kautilya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Venezuela Embassy
Panchshila Park, New Delhi

Yugoslavia Embassy
Niti Marg, New Delhi

High Commission of Australia in New Delhi, India
“http://www.ausgovindia.com/”

Embassy of Mexico in New Delhi, India
http://www.sre.gob.mx/india

Embassy of The Czech Republic in New Delhi, India
“http://www.czechembassy.org/wwwo/?zu=newdelhi”

Embassy of The Netherlands in New Delhi, India
“http://www.hollandinindia.org/”

Canada High Commission, New Delhi, India
“http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/”

New Zealand High Commission, New Delhi, India
“http://www.nzembassy.com/”

Embassy of China in New Delhi, India
“http://www.chinaembassy.org.in/”

Embassy of Norway in New Delhi, India
“http://ud23.mogul.no/cgi-bin/wbch3.exe?html=../publishing/top/index.html&p=1560″

Embassy of Denmark in New Delhi, India
“http://www.denmarkindia.com/”

General Consulate of Russia in Chennai, India
“http://www.business.vsnl.com/ruscon1″

Embassy of France in New Delhi, India
“http://www.france-in-india.org/”

High Commission of South Africa in New Delhi, India
“http://www.sahc-india.com/”

Embassy of Germany in New Delhi, India
“http://www.germanembassy-india.org/”

Embassy of Switzerland in New Delhi, India
“http://www.exploredelhi.com/www.eda.admin.ch/india_dlh/e/home.html”

Embassy of Italy in New Delhi, India
“http://www.italembdelhi.com/”

High Commission of The United Kingdom in New Delhi,India
“http://www.britishhighcommission.gov.uk/”

Embassy of Japan in New Delhi, India
“http://www.japan-emb.org.in/”

Embassy of The United States of America in New Delhi, India
“http://www.usembassy.state.gov/posts/in1/wwwhmain.html”

DELHI TRANSPORT CORPORATION

Delhi Transport Corporation

Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is the main public transport operator of Delhi. It operates buses on many bus routes, including the mudrika (the Ring Road Service) and Bahri Mudrika (the Outer Ring Road Service). It is the largest compressed natural gas-powered bus service operator in the world.

DTC is operating Interstate Services in 6 states viz. Punjab, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Rajasthan. The Corporation is operating about 81 Interstate Routes.

History

It was incorporated in May 1948 by the Indian government for local bus services when they found out the incumbent service provider Gawalior and Northern India Transport Company Ltd. was inadequate in serving the purpose. It was then named “Delhi Transport Service”. It was again constituted as “Delhi Road Transport Authority” under the Road Transport Corporation Act, 1950. This Authority became an undertaking of Municipal Corporation of Delhi by an Act of Parliament in April, 1958. In 1971, on a recommendation from the Indian government took over the assets and liabilities from the erstwhile Delhi Transport Undertaking (DTU) operated by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi until the 2nd November 1971. Delhi Transport Corporation which was under administrative control of the Indian government was transferred to the Government of National Capital Territory, Delhi.

Delhi Transport Corporation operates many routes not only in Delhi, but also many inter-states routes. The mofussil buses operate around 34 depots. and the inter-state buses operate from the Three Inter State Bus Terminals in Kashmiri Gate, Sarai Kale Khan and Anand Vihar.

Intra-Delhi bus services

Delhi Transport Corporation services in Delhi has vastly distributed network of bus services. It connects almost every part of Delhi with this network of buses. The most Prominent of these being the Mudrika and the Bahri Mudrika Seva services interconnecting all parts of the city with a great frequency of buses until approximately 10:30 p.m. Though there are no route guides available on paper there are a few web sites that allow you to view the different bus routes in India. Most people just ask around to know the correct bus they need to travel in.Bus Fares are Rs.5,10 and 15 for Non A/c(Green) and Rs.10,15,25 for the A/C buses(Red).

Metro feeder buses

Transportation in Delhi is under-going a vast change with the entry of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. DTC has been helping Delhi Metro to connect Delhi City better by operating new bus routes connecting commuters in areas surrounding the metro stations for a better city experience.

High capacity bus service

Delhi Transport Corporation has started High Capacity Bus Service on a few routes and work is in progress to develop more high capacity bus routes. This service uses buses with improved carrying capacity and better facilities like air-conditioning, less travel time, less congestion, more comfortable interiors, GPS navigation etc. And now in the list of High Capacity Buses is the new, sleek, red coloured air-conditioned buses of the Delhi Transport Corporation, which was inaugurated by Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit on 4 June 2008 during the celebrations of World Environment Day in the Capital at India Gate. Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit flagged off the eight new air-conditioned Red Line buses, which will initially ply on select routes in the capital, of which two will be on the newly constructed bus rapid transport corridor. The minimum bus fare starts at Rs.10 and the maximum is Rs.25. According to DTC officials, by 2010, there will be 5,000 new low-floored buses in the capital, out of which, 1,000 will be air-conditioned.

Inter-state bus services

DTC is one of the premier bus services of North India. It connects almost all the major centres of North India with its services. It connects Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan and Haryana.

Delhi-Lahore Bus Services

DTC has also been a great part-taker in the recent friendship ties between India and Pakistan. It has been operating the regular buses between Delhi and Lahore. The Delhi-Lahore Bus Service was inaugurated on 20 February 1999 with Former Prime Minister Mr. Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s goodwill visit to Pakistan on the maiden trip of a cross-border bus service.The Bus service were discontinued during the time of Kargil War but was restored on11th July, 2003 after a peace treaty between both the nations. The Name of the bus is Sada-e-Sarhad (Urdu: Call of the Frontier)

Special Services of Delhi NCR to IGI Airport

1. IGI AIRPORT TERMINAL- 3 To ANAND VIHAR ISBT 2. IGI AIRPORT TERMINAL-3 To Rohini Sec-1 (Avantika) 3. IGI AIRPORT TERMINAL-3 To Indira Puram Jaipuria Mall 4. IGI AIRPORT TERMINAL-3 To ISBT Kashmere Gate 5. IGI AIRPORT TERMINAL-3 To Azad Pur Terminal 6. IGI AIRPORT TERMINAL-3 To Noida Sec-35 U.P. Roadways ISBT 7. IGI AIRPORT TERMINAL-3 To Siddharath Hotel Rajendra Place 8. IGI AIRPORT TERMINAL-3 To Gurgaon ISBT.

[ Services

One of DTC’s many popular services is the issual of bus passes of monthly duration. It also issues bus passes for half-yearly, quarterly and monthly basis. Apart from these bus passes it also issues Green Card Rs. 40 & Red Card Rs. 50 for a daily commuter which is a ticket valid for the whole day. DTC is very popular with its economical student bus passes. Student passes for DTC can be made for as low as Rs. 100 and is valid for four months. This makes DTC a very viable option for students.

General Public All Route Pass (GL)

Rs. 800/-(Non-AC)

Rs.1000/- (AC)

Interstate (NCR) Passes

Delhi – GGN Rs.1080/-

Delhi – Bahadurgarh Rs. 920/-

Delhi – Faribabd Rs. 1240/-

Delhi – Ghaziabad Rs. 1280/-

The pass seekers of all above categories are required to pay a sum of Rs. 15/- for ID Card.



a) ORDINARY SERVICE EFor Adults For children (Age 5 to 12 yrs.)
) i. Upto 4 Kms. Rs.5/- Rs. 3/-
) ii. 4 – 10 Kms. Rs.10/- Rs. 5/-
) iii. 10 onwards Rs.15/- Rs. 8/-
b) LIMITED SERVICES
c) NIGHT SERVICES
d) GREEN LINE SERVICES
e) RAILWAY SPL. SERVICE
f) PALAM COACH SERVICES E
) 1. Adult Rs.50/-
) 2. Child/Luggage Rs.25/-
g) Low Floor AC Buses EFor Adults For children (Age 5 to 12 yrs.)
) i. Upto 4 Kms. Rs. 10/- Rs. 5/-
) ii. 4 – 8 Kms. Rs. 15/- Rs. 8/-
) iii. 8 – 12 Kms. Rs. 20/ Rs. 10/-
) iv. 12 & above kms. Rs. 25/- Rs. 13/-
llDo you know we also conduct Delhi Sight Seeing Tours ( Delhi Darshan)

DTC daily operates Sight Seeing Tours from Scindia House. With AC bus except on Monday. The fare of AC bus is Rs.200/- for adult and Rs.100/- for the children between the age of 5 –12 years. However the children will not be entitle for seat in the bus.

The time of journey will be from 0915 to 17.45 hrs..

The tourist bus will start from DTC Office Scindia House then pick-up Tourists from Information Kiosk of Delhi Tourism Baba Kharak Singh Marg and thereafter from ITDC Office at Janpath for onward journey to the tourist places as per the following program.



S.No. Visiting Place Halting Time
1. Red Fort 45 minutes
2. Raj Ghat ( India Gate by Pass) 20 minutes
3. Birla Mandir 30 minutes
4. Qutab Minar 45 minutes
5. Lotus Temple 45 minutes.
6. Humanyun’s Tomb 45 minutes
7. Akshardham Temple ( Swami Narian Temple ) Dropping only.
Route to be followed (VIA)

Delhi Gate, Shanti Van, Tilak Mark, Akbar Road, Sansad Marg, Shanti Path, Siri Aurbindo Marg, Press Enclave Road, Out Ring Road (Nehru Place), Modi Floor Mill, Ring Road, Mathura Road, Lodhi Road, Pragati Maidan, Nizamuddin Yamuna Bridge, Laxmi Nagarl, DDU Marg & Connaught Place.



Note:- For Reservation and Enquiry please contact on phone No.28844192 Extn. 244, Delhi Darshan Counter,Scindia House, Connaught Place .



Know about Green Card

DTC issues Green Card daily which is valid for traveling in all DTC City bus services except Palam Coach & Tourist services through out the day. The fare is Rs. 40/- on non-AC buses and Rs. 50/- on AC buses.


You may hire a DTC bus New

A) WHERE TO APPROACH ?

DTC OFFICE AT SCINDIA HOUSE
PHONE NUMBER - 28844192

The Special Hire Booking are also being made through all the depots of the Corporation, besides Scindia Houes as per the laid procedure.

B) WHAT ARE THE PRESCRIBED RATES FOR SPECIAL HIRE SERVICES ?

S.No. Particulars Standard Floor Buses (Rs.) Low Floor Non-AC Buses (Rs.) Low Floor AC Buses (Rs.)
1. Minimum charges per bus per day Rs. 2000/- (detention charges to be charged extra) Rs. 3000/- (excluding detention charges) Rs. 8000/- (excluding detention charges)
2. Charges per KM (Garage to Garage) 40/- 60/- 75/-
3. Detention charges per hour 250/- 400/- 800/-
4. Night charges per bus per night (between 2300 hrs. to 0400 hours) 250/- 400/- 600/-
5. Minimum cancellation charges per bus 500/- 750/- 1000/-
ALSO FOR SCHOOL BUS SERVICE
Contact at School Bus Cell, Scindia House.

Category Rate (Rs. per Km.)
Standard 40/-
Low Floor Non-AC 60/-
Low Floor AC 75/-

DELHI PIN CODES

Pin Code Areas

110001 Parliament House, Patiala House, Janpath, Pragati Maidan, Rail Bhawan, Election Commission, Shastri Bhawan, Baroda House, Bhagat Singh Market, New Delhi HO

110002 Rajghat Power House, Darya Ganj, Gandhi Smarak Nidhi, I.P.Estate, Ajmeri Gate Extension, Minto Road

110003

Delhi High Court, Lodi Colony, Pragati Vihar, Safdarjung Air Port,
C G O Complex, Kasturba Nagar

110004 Rashtrapati Bhawan

110005 Karol Bagh, Guru Gobind Singh Marg, Anand Parbat PO, Master Prithvi Nath Marg

110006 Chawri Bazar, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Delhi GPO, Hauz Qazi

110007 Delhi University, Birla Lines, Sadar Bazar, Sabzi Mandi, Kamla Nagar, Padam Nagar, Shakti Nagar

110008 Patel Nagar, Patel Nagar South & West, Desh Bandhu Gupta Road

110009 Model Town II &, III, G.T.B.Nagar, Dr.Mukerjee Nagar, Nirankari Colony, Gujra Wala Town

110010 Delhi Cantt, C.V.D., Dhaula Kuan, Subroto Park, Pinto Park, A F Palam, Kirby Place

110011 South Avenue, Nirman Bhawan, Gym Khana Club, Udyog Bhawan

110012 Indra Puri, National Physical Laboratory

110013 Hazrat Nizamuddin, Yusuf Sarai

110014 Jungpura, Hari Nagar Ashram, Pratap Market

110015 Mansarover Garden, Karam Pura, Ramesh Nagar, Delhi
Industrial Area, Zakhira

110016 IIT, Hauz Khan, Green Park Market, Technology Bhawan

110017 Malviya Nagar, Chirag Delhi, Pushp Vihar, Saket, Panchsheel Enclave, Sarvodya Enclave

110018 Vikas Puri, Tilak Nagar, Tilak Nagar East, Chand Nagar, Mahabir Nagar, Chaukhandi, Khyala Phase – I & II

110019 Nehru Place, Chittranjan Park, Govindpuri, Kalkaji, Alaknanda

110020 Tehkhand, Okhla Industrial Area phase-I

110021 South Delhi Campus, Moti Bagh, Chanakya Puri, Nanak Pura, Anand Niketan

110022 R K Puram Sec – 1, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12

110023 Sarojini Nagar, Kidwai Nagar East & West, Netaji Nagar, Laxmi Bai Nagar

110024 Lajpat Nagar, Defence Colony, Krishna Market

110025 New Friends Colony, Jamia Nagar, Sukhdev Vihar, Zakir
Nagar

110026 Punjabi Bagh Sec – III, Shivaji Park, Ashoka Park Extension

110027 Rajouri Garden, Subhash Nagar, Janta Market

110028 Naraina Village & Industrial Area

110029 S. J. Enclave, Ansari Nagar, Nauroji Nagar

110030 Ghitorni, Mehrauli, Paryavaran Complex

110031 Shastri Nagar, Gandhi Nagar, Geeta Colony, Kailash Nagar,
Rajgarh Colony

110032 Man Sarovar Park, Shahdara, Shivaji Park, Loni Road, Balbir
Nagar, Vishwas Nagar

110033 Jahangir Puri, N.S.Mandi

110034 Rani Bagh, Anandwas, Shakur Pur, Saraswati Vihar, Pitam
Pura

110035 Keshav Puram, Sarai Rohilla, Inderlok, Rampura

110036 Alipur, Bakoli, Kadipur, Khampur, Tajpur kalan

110037 Gurgaon road, Kapashera, Mahipalpur, Palam airport,
Samalkha

110038 Rajokari

110039 Bawana, Auchandi, Daryapur Kalan, Katewara,POOTH KHURD

110040 Bhorgarh, Narela

110041 Nangloi, Sultan Puri, Piragarhi

110042 Badli, Pehlad Pur, Shahbad Daulatpur, Samai Pur

110043 Najafgarh, Jhatikara

110044 Tugalkabad Railway Colony, Badarpur, Jaitpur, Lal Kuan

110045 Dabri, Indira Park, Palam Village

110046 Sagarpur, Nangal Raya

110047 Aya Nagar, Mandi

110048 Greater Kailash, Masjid Moth

110049 Andrewsganj, Sadiq Nagar, Gulmohar Park, Gautam Nagar

110051 Krishna Nagar, Jagatpuri, Ram Nagar, Azad Nagar, Azad
Nagar

110052 Ashok Vihar, Nimr, Shastri Nagar, Wazir Pur, Bhajan Pura

110053 Seelampur, Yamuna Vihar, New Usmanpur, Ghonda

110054 Civil Lines, L.R. Market, Timar Pur

110055 Pahar Ganj, A.K.Market, Multani Dhanda

110056 Shakur Basti, New Multan Nagar

110057 Vasant Vihar- I & II

110058 Janak Puri A-3, B-1, C-4, D.E.S.U. Colony

110059 Uttam Nagar, Jeevan Park, Hastal Village, Matiala

110060 Rajender Nagar

110061 Bijwasan, Shahbad Mohammadpur

110062 AFS Tugalkabad, BSF Camp Tigri, Hamdard Nagar, Khanpur,
Pushpa Bhawan, Deoli

110063 Jwalaheri,Paschim Vihar, Madipur

110064 Hari Nagar, Maya Puri

110065 Nehru Nagar, East of Kailash, Sriniwaspuri

110066 R K Puram, Bikaji Cama Place

110067 J.N.U., Munirka

110068 Maidan Garhi, Ignou,Neb Sarai

110070 Vasant Kunj, Masood Pur

110071 Chhawla, Badhosarai, Kangan Heri

110073 Galib Pur, Quazipur, Issapur

110074 Chattarpur, Fatehpur Beri, Dera, Satbari

110075 Dwarka Sec-6

110076 Sarita Vihar, Madanpur Khadar, Ali Village

110078 N.S.I.T Dwarka, Raj Nagar – Ii

110081 Karala, Kanjhawla, Chand Pur, Gheora, Jaunti, Rani Khera

110082 Khera Kalan, Khera Khurd, Holambi Kalan

110083 Mangol Puri – A Block, C Block, I Block, N Block

110084 Burari, Jagatpur, Nathupura

110085 Rohini, Prashant Vihar, Rithala

110086 Budh Vihar, Sultan Puri – B, C, & F Block

110087 Peeragarhi, Jwala Puri, Sunder Vihar

110088 Shalimar bagh, Haiderpur, Maurya Enclave Po

110091 Patparganj, Trilok Puri, Mayur Vihar ph-I, Himmatpuri,
Kalyanpuri, Chilla

110092 Anand Vihar, Shakarpur, Mandawali, Nirman Vihar, Surajmal
Vihar, Yozna Vihar

110093 Loni Road, Nand Nagri “A” & “C”, Mandoli Saboli

110094 Sonia Vihar, Khazuri Khas, Karawal Nagar, Dayalpur,
Johripur, Gokal Puri

110095 Dilshad Garden, Jhilmil, Old Seemapuri, Vivek Vihar

110096 Ghazipur, Mayur Vihar ph-III, Vasundhra Enclave

Pin Code – NCR Regions

201301 Noida

122001 Gurgaon

121002 Faridabad City

121001 Faridabad NIT

201009 Ghaziabad

Delhi Festivals

Delhi, being the capital of India, is home to people of all religions and communities from different parts of the country. The religious and state festivals are celebrated with pomp and show, wherever there is concentration of population from the same community and state. The major festivals celebrated in India are the Hindu festivals of Durga Puja, Diwali and Holi, Muslim festivals of Eid and Bakrid, National events such as the Republic Day, Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti. Republic Day Parade is organized on the Rajpath, and is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm.






Lohri, a Punjabi festival, is celebrated annually on 13th January. It marks the end of winter and people arrange grand bonfire parties, wherein they dance and sing all night. On the very next day, Hindus celebrate Makar Sankranti. On this day, a Kite Festival is arranged every year in Delhi on the green lawns above Palika Bazaar at Connaught Place. The colorful kites of all shapes and sizes are beautiful to look at as national as well as international participants display their skills. Basant Panchami or the Spring Festival of Hindus is usually celebrated at the end of January or early February.

It is in this season that Mughal Gardens at Rashtrapati Bhavan are in full bloom and are opened to public for a month. Thyagaraja Festival is generally organized in February at the Vaikunthnath temple opposite Jawaharlal Nehru University. It is the best opportunity to see some of the magical performances of classical South Indian music and dance. Maha Shivratri is celebrated on the no-moon night in the Hindu month of ‘Phalguna’, usually in March. It is said to be the day when Lord Shiva performed ‘Tandava Nritya’, the cosmic dance. People observe fast on this day and pray to Lord Shiva for his blessings.

Amir Khusrau’s anniversary is celebrated in April and a fair is organized in his honor at Nizamuddin. Prayers are offered to him and ‘Qawwalis’ are sung in the evening. On this occasion, the National Drama Festival is also held where plays are staged, mostly at the Rabindra Bhawan. Baisakhi, celebrated in mid-April, marks the beginning of the harvest season, while Buddha Jayanti, on the first full moon night in May, commemorates the birth of the Lord Buddha. On this occasion, prayer meetings are held at Buddha Vihar, Ring Road and Buddha Vihar, Mandir Marg in Delhi.

Mahavir Jayanti is also celebrated in May to commemorate the birth of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism. Tourists can also enjoy the International Mango Festival held in July at Talkatora Stadium, where one can taste over five hundred varieties of mangoes displayed. Phoolwalon Ki Sair or the Flower Sellers’ Procession is organized at Mehrauli in early October. This festival originated in the 16th century. The procession showcases people carrying decorated floral fans, which are blessed at the Mehrauli shrines of Jogmaya and Khwaja Utb-ud-din Bakhtyar Kaki, a 13th century Sufi saint. The procession ends at Jahaz Mahal, a 16th century pleasure resort.

Qutub Festival, organized by Delhi Tourism in October, showcases the performances of musicians and dancers at night, with Qutub Minar as the chosen backdrop of the event. In November/December, Sikhs celebrate Guru Purab, the birth anniversary of first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev. Processions, known as ‘Nagar Kirtans’, are organized on the streets of Delhi on this day. In the Gurdwaras, there are recitals of verses from the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs. Besides this, there are Christian festivals, such as Christmas and New Year, when special events are organized throughout Delhi.

CINEMA HALLS

Delhi is a major hub of cinema halls. From the grand PVR’s to Moti, Delhi treats its dwellers to some beyond belief experiences. With its state-of-the art technology and its wonderful blend of the finest from Hollywood and Bollywood, the multiplex has revolutionized the movie going behavior of the Delhi cinema buffs.

The PVR’s bestow a great blend of both Hollywood and Bollywood. PVR’s are located at all the prime locations of the city which include Vasant Vihar, Connaught place, Malls of Gurgaon, Faridabad and all across the city. It has also closely monitored the growth of cinema halls and the cinematic experience.

It is the best place to be when you need to drive away boredom. Surrounded by all the happening stores and restaurants, the auditorium has an impeccable selection of Hollywood hits to add to its allure. A haven for quality conscious West Delhi cinema buffs. Wide screen, spacious lobby, well tended surroundings make for pleasant viewing.


List of PVR cinemas in Delhi/NCR :

PVR Cinema Faridabad

Address : Crown Plaza Mall, Sector 15-A,
Faridabad – 121001 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(129)-4015501

PVR Ambience Premier

Address : Ambience Mall, NH – 8,
Gurgaon – 122001 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(124)-27944194

PVR Prashant Vihar

Address : A-Block, Fun City Mall,
Prashant Vihar, New Delhi – 110085
Phone : +(91)-(11)-47020787

PVR Plaza

Address : H-Block, Inner Circle,
Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
Phone : +(91)-(11)-41516787

PVR Cinema Rivoli

Address : Regal Building,
Baba Kharak Singh Marg,
Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
Phone : +(91)-(11)-41502787

PVR Priya

Address : 61, Community Centre,
Vasant Vihar, New Delhi – 110057
Phone : +(91)-(11)-41663787

PVR Cinema Naraina

Address : 1, Community Centre,
Naraina Industrial Area,
New Delhi – 110028
Phone : +(91)-(11)-41411787

PVR Saket

Address : Local shopping complex,
Community Centre, Saket,
New Delhi – 110017
Phone : +(91)-(11)-41000458

PVR Gurgaon

M.G.F. Mall, Mehrauli Gurgaon Road,
Gurgaon – 122001 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(124)-7483647

PVR Sonia

Address : Vikas Puri Community Centre,
Vikas Puri, New Delhi – 110018
Phone : +(91)-(11)-41586143

PVR EDM

Address : East Delhi Mall, Kaushambi,
Ghaziabad – 201010 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(120)-3012787

PVR Gurgaon

M.G.F. Mall, Mehrauli Gurgaon Road,
Gurgaon – 122001 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(124)-7483647

PVR Cinema Vikaspuri

Address : 1, Community Centre,
Vikas Puri, New Delhi – 110058
Phone : +(91)-(11)-41586787

PVR Spice

Spice World, Near Noida Stadium,
Sector 25 A, Noida – 201301 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(120)-4366400

More Movie Theatres in Delhi/NCR with Complete Address :

Big Cinemas

Address : Ansal Plaza, 2nd Floor,
Ghaziabad Sector 11,
Ghaziabad – 201010 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(120)-39894040

Satyam Cineplex

Address : 402, Satyam Cinema Building,
4th Floor, Patel Road,
New Delhi – 110008

Phone : +(91)-(11)-25893322

Fun Cinemas

Address : Cross River Mall,
Karkar Duma Court Road,
Karkar Duma, New Delhi – 110032
Phone : +(91)-(11)-42111825

Liberty

Address : New Rohtak Road,Karol Bagh,
Delhi
Phone : 011-28714836

SRS Cinema

Address : Pristine Mall, Faridabad Sector 31,
Faridabad – 121001 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(129)-4040095

Wave Cinema

Address : Centrestage Mall, Noida
Phone : 0120-4364623

Big Cinemas (Pacific Mall)

Address : Kaushambi Pacific Mall, Kaushambi,
Ghaziabad – 201010 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(120)-3012053

ADLABS

Address : IMAX,Pacific Mall,Opposite Anand Vihar ISBT,Kaushambi,
Phone : 0120-3012222
Ghaziabad(Delhi NCR)

Savitri Cinema

Address : Dlf Commercial Centre Phase – II,
Greater Kailash, New Delhi – 110048
Phone : +(91)-(11)-26410071

DT Cinemas

Address : City Centre,MG Road,Opp.Beverly Park,
Phone : 0124-4014092
Gurgaon(Delhi NCR)

Alpana Cinema

Address : Ring Road, Model Town
New Delhi – 110009

Phone : +(91)-(11)27413104

Shiela Theatre

Address : D.B. Gupta Road,
New Delhi – 110 055
Phone : +(91)-(11)-23672100

MMX Cinema

Address : Grand Trunk Road, Mohan Nagar,
Ghaziabad – 201010 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(120)-4388669

3C’S Cinema

Address : 15, Feroz Gandhi Marg,
Lajpat Nagar 3, New Delhi – 110019
Phone : +(91)-(11)-29847847

Filmistan

Address : New Model Basti, Model Basti,
New Delhi – 110009
Phone : +(91)-(11)-23673120

AB Movies

Address : R11, Nehru Enclave,
Kalkaji, New Delhi – 110019
Phone : +(91)-(11)-41628796

M2K

Address :16,Distt Centre,Mangalam Palace,Rohini,Sector3,

Phone : 011-2794164

Delite Cinema

Address : 4/1, Asaf Ali Road,
Darya Ganj, Delhi – 110002
Phone : +(91)-(11)-23272903

Amba Cinema

Address : Main Road, Ghanta Ghar,
Subzi Mandi, Shakti Nagar,
New Delhi – 110007
Phone : +(91)-(11)-23826000

M4U

Address : Sahni Tower, Rajinder Nagar,
Sahibabad, Sector5,
Ghaziabad – 201005 (Delhi NCR)
Phone : +(91)-(120)-4380357

Chattarpur Mandir

Chattarpur Mandir is situated just 4 km from Qutub Minar, located in the Mehrauli area of New Delhi. The spectacular temple complex is an architectural gem in itself. All the shrines in the complex are built from white marble.

Comparatively recent in its construction, it rivals the splendor of the Mughal architecture of the city. Devotees from all over Delhi come to pay their homage to the deities in the temple. The main shrine is dedicated to Goddess Durga and exhibits traits of the temple architecture of South India.

On Durga Puja, one can see never-ending queues of devotees waiting patiently for their turn to ask for the blessings of the Goddess. According to the popular belief, tying a thread on the tree inside the complex of Chattarpur Mandir fulfills one’s wishes. Prayers and sermons are conducted in the temple 24 hours a day. Anybody can participate in these spiritual meetings, any time.

The beauty of the complex is highlighted by the lush green gardens in the area. There are also a number of temples inside the complex, dedicated to various Gods and Goddesses, like Vishnu, Ganesha, Lakshmi and Shiva.

Birla Temple

Lakshmi Narayan Mandir is situated near Connaught Place area of New Delhi. It was built by Raja Baldev Das in 1938. Popularly known as Birla Mandir, it is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of prosperity and wealth and her consort, Lord Vishnu. Built in Orissan style, its walls are adorned with various Hindu symbols and inscriptions from the holy books of the Gita and the Upanishads. The temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi and took six years to complete. According to the conditions placed by him, people of all castes, including the untouchables, were allowed to visit the temple. It is maintained by Birla family, the renowned industrialists of India.

The highest tower in the temple is 165 ft high. The temple complex also has Geeta Bhavan, a hall adorned with paintings depicting Indian mythology and a Buddha temple, with fresco paintings on the life of Buddha. The walls of the entire complex exhibit paintings of the artists from Jaipur. An artificial mountainous landscape, with fountains and waterfalls, has been created as the backdrop of the temple. The festival of Janmashtami is celebrated with a special fervor here. The white marble and red sandstone temple has multiple ‘swastikas’ on display. There are shrines of other deities in the complex, such as those dedicated to Goddess Durga and Lord Shiva.

Important Numbers

ISD Code of India: +91
STD Code of Delhi: 011

Police - 100 / 1090
Fire - 101
Ambulance - 102
Accident & Trauma Service - 1099
Tourist City Information Service - 1280
Child Helpline - 1098
Women's Helpline - 1091

Airport Enquiries
Domestic Terminal
http://www.newdelhiairport.in
Delhi Airport - +91-124-3376000
International Terminal
Exchange +91-11-3376000
Air India 2565 2050

Delhi Metro Enquiries
www.delhimetrorail.com
24 Hours DMRC Helpline No.:
+91-11-128128
For calling from mobile phones
Please dial 011 -128128

STD Code
Delhi - 011
Noida - 0120
Gurgaon - 0124
Faridabad - 0129
Ghaziabad - 0120
Bahadurgarh - 01276

Bus Services
Inter-State Enquiry at Kashmiri Gate
Terminus - 91-11-22960290; 91-11- 22968836
Inter-State Enquiry at Sarai Kale Khan
Terminus - 91-11-24698343; 91-11-24638092
Inter-State Enquiry at Anand Vihar
Terminus - 91-11-22148097
UP Roadways - 91-11-22968709
Haryana Roadways - 91-11-22961262
Punjab Roadways - 91-11-22967892
Himachal Roadways - 91-11-22966725
Rajasthan Roadways - 91-11-22919537
J&K Roadways - 91-11-23324511

Telephone Services
Directory Enquiry - 197
Telephone Complaint - 198
Internet Customer Care - 1504
Change Number Hindi/Eng - 1951/1952
Roadways Enquiries
Anand Vihar, ISBT 22152431
Sarai Kale Khan 24358343/ 8092
Kashmere Gate 23865181/ 23868836
Ext. : 217
DTC Local Enquiry 23317600
DTC Website : http://dtc.nic.in
U.P. Roadways 22149089

Railway Enquiries
http://www.indianrail.gov.in
General Enquiries - 139

Air India
General Enquiry - 25652050 & 18001801407

Blood Banks
AIIMS - 91-11-26588700
Indian Red Cross Society 24618073, 24618915

Bomb Disposal Squads
New Delhi - 91-11-23361231 Extn. 3705
Delhi - 91-11-22512201 Extn. 577
North - 91-11-23962281

Tourist Enquiry
ITDC - 91-11-23719039
Delhi Tourist City Information Service - 1280
Transport Arrangements - 91-11-24674153, 26884312
Tours Department - 91-11-23363607, 23365358

Tourism Departments:
Delhi (DTDC) - 91-11-23363607; 91-11-23365358
Haryana - 91-11-23324910; 91-11-23324911
Himachal Pradesh - 91-11-23325320;
91-11-23324764
Punjab - 91-11-23343055
Rajasthan - 91-11-23383837; 91-11-23389525
Uttar Pradesh - 91-11-23711296; 91-11-23322251
Uttranchal - 91-11-23350481


Medical Emergencies
Delhi has possibly the country's best medical infrastructure. This ranges from specialised state-of-the-art medical facilities to traditional healing hospitals.



All India Institute of Medical Sciences
Ph: 011-26588500/ 26588700
VIMHANS (Mental Health & Neuroscience)
Ph: 26310510 - 20
National Heart Institute
Ph: 011-26414156
26414157 / 26414075
National Chest Institute
Ph: 011- 26864012
26964044 / 26960436

Escorts Heart Institute and Research Centre
Ph: 011-26825000 - 3
Cancer Detection Centre
Ph: 011-23716941
Guru Nanak Eye Centre
Ph: 011-23233080 / 23236745

Apollo
Ph: 011-26925858
26825555 / 26925801 / 1066
Indian Spinal Injuries Centre
Ph: 011-26137603
26894884 / 26896642
Indian Spinal Injuries Centre (Cardiac).
Ph: 011-26139660
Lok Nayak Jai Prakash
Ph: 011-23233400
23231621 / 23232400 / 23230733
Ram Manohar Lohia
Ph: 011-23365525 / 23404040
Orthonova
Ph: 011-51657554-8
Hindu Rao
Ph: 011-23932307/ 23932314

G B Pant
Ph: 011-23234242 / 23233001

Sri Ganga Ram
Ph: 011-25781837
25735205 / 25721529

Batra
Ph: 011-29958747
29957481/ 29957585-6
G. M. Modi
Ph: 011-26852112 / 26852113
Sita Ram Bhartia Institute
Ph: 011-52111111
26867435-8 / 26867279 / 26867933

Max Healthcare
Ph: 011-26499870 / 27158844

Fortis
Ph: 011-42776222

Seasons of Delhi

Delhi's has an extreme climate. It is very hot in summer (April - July) and cold in winter (December - January). The average temperature can vary from 25oC to 45oC during the summer and 22oC to 5oC during the winter.

In summer adequate precautions need to be taken, to avoid the intense heat, such as wearing light cotton clothing, wearing a hat or sunshade while going outdoors and drinking plenty of liquids. In winter, wearing warm or woolen clothing will protect you from the cold.

Maps of Delhi