The Capital of British India

Shifting the Capital
In 1911, the capital of British India was shifted from Calcutta (now Kolkata) to Delhi. The decision to move the capital was made by King George V during his visit to the city in December 1911. The move aimed to transfer the administrative center of the British Raj to a more central location and to assert British authority over the entire Indian subcontinent.

Reasons for the Shift
There were several reasons behind the decision to shift the capital to Delhi:

1. Geographical Considerations: Delhi is located in the northern part of India, making it a more central location compared to Calcutta, which is situated in the eastern part of the country. This centralization of power was seen as a way to strengthen British control over the entire subcontinent.

2. Historical Significance: Delhi has a rich historical and cultural heritage, having served as the capital for several powerful dynasties in the past. By making Delhi the capital of British India, the British aimed to connect themselves with this historical legacy and establish a sense of continuity.

3. Symbolic Importance: The British wanted to create a grand and imposing capital that would showcase their imperial power. Delhi offered a suitable canvas for architectural marvels and grandeur, which would help reinforce British dominance and create a sense of awe among the Indian population.

Choice of Calcutta as the Previous Capital
Calcutta was chosen as the capital of British India in 1772 by the East India Company. Numerous factors contributed to this decision:

1. Strategic Location: Calcutta was strategically located on the eastern coast of India, making it easily accessible by sea. This facilitated trade and communication with other European powers and provided a gateway to Southeast Asia.

2. Economic Importance: Calcutta was a thriving commercial hub and the center of the lucrative British East India Company's operations. The city's economic significance made it a suitable choice for establishing the administrative capital.

3. Political Stability: Calcutta was relatively stable compared to other regions in India, with a well-established British presence and a loyal Indian bureaucracy. This stability made it an attractive option for the seat of government.

Overall, the shift of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911 aimed to consolidate British authority, establish a grand imperial capital, and symbolically connect the British rule with India's historical legacy.