From King’s Court To Citizens’ Avenue, Here’s How Central Vista Evolved

One of the busiest tourist areas in Delhi is Central Vista Avenue, which runs from the Rashtrapati Bhawan to the India Gate. It is used for the Republic Day parade of the country and numerous other ceremonial events. This showcases the capital city to the outside world. Throughout India’s long history, Central Vista has undergone many developments. From King’s court to citizens avenue, here’s how Central Vista has evolved.

Central Vista: Centre Of Political And Administrative Power

Central Vista is the seat of Indian political and administrative power. The Central Vista Avenue streets were renamed after independence which is King’s Way became Rajpath and Queensway became Janpath. The All India War Memorial was renamed India Gate, whereas the Viceroy’s House was renamed the Rashtrapati Bhavan. These structures in Central Vista are unique as lasting symbols of the Indian Republic. The imperial buildings at Central Vista Avenue continue to serve as an important space for Indian diplomacy.

Also read: Construction Work For New Parliament Building In Delhi To Start On Jan 15

Evolution Throughout The Years

Pre Independence: Kingsway

Raisina Hill was chosen as the site for the new centre of power. It was done after King George V, who had visited Delhi during the Darbur of 1911. The decision was taken in 1911 to move British India’s capital from Calcutta to Delhi. The new city around Raisina was laid out in the form of a geometric grid. The seat of government at the top and two formal avenues intersect at the bottom. This section which is called the Central Vista was formerly known as the Kingsway

Rajpath

Indians assembled at the Imperial buildings in New Delhi in huge numbers to celebrate their freedom. After independence, Kingsway became Rajpath. It was perceived as a form of appropriation and as India became more democratic. Both Queensway and Kingsway were renamed respectively.

Also read: New Delhi’s Rajpath, Central Vista Lawns To Be Renamed Kartavya Path And Here’s Why

Also read: Delhi’s Revamped Central Vista Avenue Is All Set To Open On September 9

Kartavya Path

Central Vista redevelopment project proposed that all 51 Ministries be located at one location to improve coordination. Modern office buildings with a capacity to house roughly 54,000 people will replace Central Vista’s present building.  It is proposed that all these ministries be connected through overground shuttles and walkways. The central avenue from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate along with Central Vista lawns will be known as Kartavya Path. After the New Delhi Municipal Council, unanimously approved the renaming of the area.