The cultural diversity and religious unity are the
core values of the Indian society. Delhi, being the capital of India,
naturally reflects it all, as people from different states come here for
best education, best medicinal assistance and good job opportunities. It
is a centre stage of Indian politics too and represents all that is best
in the country. The metropolitan city with a cosmopolitan outlook, New
Delhi boasts of a rich cultural heritage. The ancient city still
reflects the remnants of the glorious old-age charm and culture, yet has
a very modern and chic lifestyle. The nightlife is interesting and a
number of discos beckon the youngsters to sway and dance on enchanting
numbers.
At the Nizamuddin Shrine, one can still hear the 'Qawwalis'. 'Gurbani'
(the verses from the Granth Sahib) and prabhat ferries can be heard in
the Gurudwaras, 'bhajans' and 'aartis' in the temples and Sunday masses
in Churches. The traditional fairs and festivals like
'Phoolwalo-Ki-Sair' are still being celebrated. With the increasing
number of people from different states, the regional festivals like
'Chhath Puja' of Bihar and 'Durga Puja' of Bengal are also being
observed. Since Delhi shares its borders with Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar
Pradesh and Punjab, its people and their lifestyle is often influenced
greatly by these regions.
Though Punjabis dominate Delhi, it has now developed a number of
pockets dominated by other communities also, such as South Indians in
R.K. Puram and Bengalis in C.R. Park. It is this diversity that makes
Delhi so lively and colorful. Indo-Persian art is reflected in Jama
Masjid, while Birla Temple and the Chattarpur Temple complex exude
amalgamations of North and South Indian architectural styles. Lotus
temple is notable not only for representing the Bahai way of worship,
but also the splendid architectural design. Jains and Buddhists also
have their own shrines in the city, while the Tibetan monastery near the
Interstate bus terminus is representative of the Tibetan culture in
India.
