What is the Old Name of Delhi? Know About It

Delhi, the capital of India, is a city with a rich and long history. Over thousands of years, it has been ruled by many kings and emperors, each leaving their mark on its culture and name. The city has been known by different names in different time periods. In this article, we will explore the old names of Delhi and what they mean.

Old Name of Delhi

Delhi, India’s bustling capital today, has gone by many names over thousands of years. From epic tales to mighty empires, every name Delhi has had tells a part of its long and colorful story. Let’s travel back in time and uncover the hidden names and faces of this historic city.

Indraprastha

Long Before it was called Delhi, this land was known as Indraprastha. According to the Mahabharata, one of India’s oldest epics, Indraprastha was the magnificent capital of the Pandavas. This city was said to be built along the Yamuna River. Many experts believe that today’s Delhi stands on or near this ancient site. A famous old fort called Purana Qila is believed to be built on the ruins of Indraprastha, keeping the city’s mythical past alive.

Dilli, A Name From Ancient Kings

In the time of the Delhi Sultanate (13th to 16th centuries), the city came to be known as Dilli, a name that people still use today. Some say the word ”Dilli” came from Raja Dhilu, a ruler from around 50 BCE. Over time, his name may have turned into ”Dilli.” During this time, different rulers built their own towns – Mehrauli, Siri and Tughlaqabad – but together they were all called Dilli by locals.

Shahjahanabad, The Mughal Masterpiece

In the 1600s, the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan made his own royal city and called it Shahjahanabad. Today, we call it Old Delhi. It became the heart of the Mughal Empire, full of beauty and life. Shahjahanabad had grand buildings like the Red Fort, Jama Masjid and the famous shopping street Chandni Chowk. Even today, walking through its narrow lanes feels like stepping into history.

Delhi, the Modern Name Takes Over

During the British rule, the city officially became known as Delhi. In 1911, the British made Delhi the capital of India instead of Kolkata. After Indian gained independence in 1947, Delhi continued to grow. Today, New Delhi is the seat of India’s government, but the whole area is still proudly called Dilli – carrying centuries of history in its name.

Fascinating Facts About Delhi’s Old Names

• Indraprastha is believed to be more than 3,000 years old.
• Purana Qila might be standing on the exact place where Indraprastha once stood.
• ”Dilli” may have been come from the name of Raja Dhilu, who ruled in ancient times.
• Delhi has been built and rebuilt at least seven times by different rulers.
• Shahjahanabad, or Old Delhi, was a walled city with 14 grand gates, some of which still remain today.