While discussing famous places in New Delhi, some names just can not be missed and Connaught Place is one of them. Now officially named as Rajeev Chowk, Connaught Place (CP) is a place of pride amongst the old heritage structures of the city.
Design of Connaught Place
Connaught Place is shaped like a horseshoe. The British believed that a market in the shape of a horseshoe would prove lucky for both shoppers and shopkeepers. The area of Connaught Place is so uniquely designed that it is instantly recognizable on any map of Delhi. And if you have been to England then you can easily say that Georgian architecture of Connaught Place is inspired from the Royal Crescent in Bath, England.
Named after the Duke of Connaught, Connaught Place or CP (as locals call it) was earlier developed as a showpiece of Lutyens’ Delhi featuring a Central Business District. Today CP is one of the largest financial, commercial and business centers of Delhi. Several Indian firms have even made their headquarters in CP itself.
CP is designed as a big circle in the middle with radial roads spreading out in all directions. The outer ring is known as Connaught Circus and twelve different roads lead out from this place. The most famous amongst them is Janpath, the most-sought after shopping spot for the latest trendy dresses.
The central park of Connaught Place has long been a venue for cultural events but after the construction of Delhi Metro Station, the park was rebuilt. The metro station known as Rajiv Chowk, is one of the largest and busiest station in metro network where you can interchange for the Yellow and Blue lines.
The place still attracts a huge crowd
Though lately Connaught Place might have lost its old glory but it still holds the old charm. Since many good hotels of New Delhi are located in the close vicinity of Connaught Place itself, the place is very much popular among foreigners. Moreover, the area is easily accessible from any part of New Delhi. So it is the first choice for tourists to stay.
To regain its lost glory, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has stated working on it under a project called ‘Return to heritage Project’. The building structures are going to have retrofitting for earthquake resistance. With facilities like adequate parking, better roads, drainage and water supply along with walkways, this proud landmark of Delhi is surely going to stay for years to come.