Delhi
has been a witness to political turmoil and coming up and falling of
empires for more than five centuries. Its mention can be found in the
great Indian epic, Mahabharata, as Indraprastha, the city of Pandavas,
who were said to converted this barren piece of land into one of the
wonderlands of those times, by their endeavors. Other cities that came
up later as kings and emperors occupied the area were Lal Kot, Siri,
Dinpanah, Quila Rai Pithora, Ferozabad, Jahanpanah, Tughlakabad and
Shahjahanabad. Later these eight cities merged into one hustling and
bustling metropolitan city that later emerged as the political capital
of free India. Delhi has the reputation of throwing anybody who seats
oneself on its throne including the British who took its possession in
1911 and the current political parties that have had the honor of
leading free India. Purana Qila is one of the most ancient legacies of Delhi surrounded by panoramic views and ringing with legendary past. Recently, archeological evidences of a much ancient civilization have been found around this fort that are dated to the times of Indus Valley Civilization. Shah Jahan built Red Fort later. It has some of the most gorgeous palaces that are delicate in looks and splendid in architecture. This strong citadel has been the symbol of strength and freedom in independent India. The tri-colored flag hoisted here is the pride of every Indian. Though, the Army now occupies the fort, a part of it still opened for the public. Delhi has faced the invaders that have massacred it severeal times including Nadir Shah, who is said to have looted so much wealth here that he could not carry all of it to his homeland, Abdali and Taimur Lane.
Yet it has successfully recuperated time and again to gain the central stage in political fortunes of India. It had been the focal point for the war of independence since the first revolt of 1857. To recapture Delhi and drive away the British from India was the ultimate goal of the Azad Hind Fauz, established by Subhash Chandra Bose. Even today, Indians often use the term 'Ab Dilli Door Nahin' (meaning Delhi is not far of now) as a proverb to denote any great success at hand, which in itself impresses the value and esteem of Delhi and its historic greatness that it holds in the minds of the Indians.
