Journey Through Time: Delhi's Storied Past Unveiled at Bikaner House Exhibition

Step into a captivating journey through the annals of Delhi's history at 'Imagining the City: A Search for Delhi', an enthralling exhibition currently gracing the elegant halls of Bikaner House. Curated by the esteemed Dr. Premola Ghose, this unique display invites visitors to rediscover the capital's multifaceted evolution, spanning from the grandeur of the 17th century to the pivotal mid-20th century.

The exhibition is a treasure trove of rare and meticulously preserved artefacts, featuring an impressive collection of maps, vintage photographs, intricate lithographs, detailed engravings, and historical prints.

Each piece serves as a window into a bygone era, allowing us to witness how Delhi was conceived, transformed, and continually re-imagined by those who documented its changing face.

Among the standout exhibits is an extraordinary 18th-century map by the renowned British cartographer, James Rennell.

Hailed as the first Surveyor General of Bengal and celebrated for producing the first comprehensive map of Hindustan, Rennell's work provides an invaluable perspective on the geographical and urban layout of the region during his time. Another fascinating piece is a map specifically illustrating the 'seven cities of Delhi', offering a visual narrative of the capital's layered past and its successive incarnations.

Beyond cartography, the exhibition delves into the visual history of Delhi through striking photographs.

Visitors can marvel at iconic images such as the 1911 Coronation Durbar, a moment of grand imperial spectacle that reshaped Delhi's destiny. The collection also features the evocative works of Lala Deen Dayal, a pioneering photographer whose lens captured the essence of Indian life and architecture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Through these visual narratives, the exhibition beautifully articulates Delhi's profound transformation – from the majestic Mughal capital of Shahjahanabad, with its intricate gardens and iconic monuments, to its eventual emergence as the vibrant British imperial capital.

It highlights the enduring significance of the River Yamuna, the strategic importance of various fortresses, and the architectural marvels that have defined the city's skyline through centuries.

'Imagining the City' is more than just an exhibition; it's an immersive experience that deepens our understanding of Delhi's historical continuum and its enduring spirit.

It serves as a poignant reminder of the countless stories embedded within its ancient stones and the relentless march of time that has shaped this incredible metropolis. History enthusiasts and casual visitors alike are encouraged to immerse themselves in this rich tapestry of Delhi’s past, before the exhibition concludes on October 15th at Bikaner House.