Delhi, is the capital territory of the Republic of India. Delhi is historically and culturally connected to both the Upper Doab of the Yamuna-Ganges river system and the Punjab region. It is bordered by Haryana on three sides and by Uttar Pradesh to the east. It is the most populous city in India—about 1,484 square kilometres (573 sq mi). Delhi, has seen the rise and fall of many empires which have left behind a plethora of monuments that the grandeur and glory of bygone ages. The story of the city is as old as the epic Mahabharata, when the town was known as Indraprastha, where Pandavas used to live. Over the centuries, eight more cities came alive adjacent to Indraprastha: Lal Kot, Siri, Dinpanah, Quila Rai Pithora, Ferozabad, Jahanpanah, Tughlakabad and Shahjahanabad. Many empires rose to the heights of their power and were destroyed here. Among the prominent dynasties which made Delhi their capital were the Tughlaqs, the Khiljis and the Mughals.

Mughals ruled Delhi in succession starting from Qutab-ub-din to Khiljis, Tughlaqs . The city of Delhi passed on to the hands of the British in 1803 AD. It was only in 1911, when the capital of British Empire was shifted from Calcutta to Delhi, that Delhi got its present prestige. After independence also, a kind of autonomy was conferred on the capital but it largely remained a chief commissioner’s regime. In 1956 Delhi was converted into a Union territory and gradually the chief commissioner was replaced by a Lt. Governor. In 1991, the national capital territory Act was passed by the parliament and a system of diarchy was introduced under which, the elected Government was given wide powers; except law and order which remained with the central Government. The actual enforcement of the legislation came in 1993.

Even today, one can have a fascinating glimpse into the past in Old Delhi, with its labyrinth of narrow lanes, old havelis, and colourful bazaars. Rickshaws wind their way through this crowded, bustling capital of the Mughals, where life continues, much as it did hundreds of years ago. It is home to three World Heritage monuments—Qutub Minar, Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb that have survived many centuries, and give an idea of architectural wonders created by emperors in the past. Central Delhi, with its tree-lined avenues, imposing structures and buildings such as the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House and India Gate, reflect Delhi’s colonial past. A number of museums provide a glimpse into the country’s fascinating history.

Delhi Culture is all about the tradition of Delhi. Culture of Delhi includes festivals, art, paintings, embroidery, jewelery, handicrafts, cuisine, religion and sports. Delhi, being the capital of India, is the land of festivals and celebrations. The most important festivals included in the Cultural Heritage of Delhi are the Diwali, Dussera, Lohri, Holi, Kite Flying Festival, Basant Panchami, Maha Shivaratri, Baisakhi, Mahavir Jayanti and a lot more.

Delhi Culture comprises of art and paintings, which is a part of the tradition of Delhi.art and paintings got immense importance in Delhi since the Mughal period. Delhi embroidery is famous all over the world. The cloths having different types of embroideries are used or making salwar kurtas, sarees, bed sheets and a lot more. The fine work incorporated in the jeweleries of Delhi bring represent the touch of elegance. The jeweleries include the traditional as well as the modern ones. The great number of designers in Delhi continuous invent new styles in jeweleries. A wide variety of handicrafts are found in Delhi. Local people as well as the tourists coming from far and wide have a great interest in buying jeweleries made in Delhi. Delhi handicrafts also attract people from all over the world. There are handicraft melas and fairs as well as shops and emporiums, where crafts work are available. Delhi hut is one of the places in Delhi, where a wide variety of handicrafts are available.

Delhi being a land of culture and diversity, religion has always played an important role in the Delhi Culture. The different kinds of people as well as culture and religion brought in the different types of cuisine. Delhi cuisine, which is more popularly known as North Indian cuisine is famous in the whole world.