The capital of India before Delhi was Calcutta (now known as Kolkata).
Calcutta: India's Capital During the British Raj
For a significant period during the British Raj, Calcutta served as the primary capital of India. This grand city in West Bengal held immense political, economic, and cultural significance for the British administration. Its status as the capital was firmly established and maintained until the early 20th century.
The Historic Shift to Delhi
The decision to transfer the capital from Calcutta to Delhi was a monumental event in Indian history. This pivotal change was formally proclaimed by King George V at the climax of the 1911 Delhi Durbar on December 12, 1911. This declaration marked the end of Calcutta's long reign as the capital and heralded the beginning of Delhi's central role in the administration of India. The transfer was largely driven by strategic and historical considerations, aiming to place the capital in a more centrally located and historically significant city.
Key Capital Transitions
The shift of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi marked a significant administrative change during the British colonial period.
| Period | Capital City | Key Event |
|---|---|---|
| Until 1911 | Calcutta | Primary capital during the British Raj |
| From 1911 onwards | Delhi | Proclamation by King George V at Delhi Durbar on December 12, 1911 |
It is also noteworthy that during this era, Shimla (now Shimla) in the Himalayas had developed into the summer capital by the latter half of the 19th century, serving as a retreat from the plains' heat for the colonial administrators.
The transfer of the capital to Delhi underscored a new chapter in India's administrative and political landscape, laying the groundwork for the modern capital we recognize today.
