Before the Islamic invasions, Delhi was a stronghold of Rajput rulers. It is historically linked to Indraprastha from the Mahabharata.

• Lal Kot (1st City): Founded by the Tomar ruler Anangpal II in the mid-11th century.
• Qila Rai Pithora: The Chauhan king, Prithviraj Chauhan III, conquered Lal Kot and expanded it.
• Turning Point: The Second Battle of Tarain (1192 AD) led to Prithviraj Chauhan's defeat by Muhammad Ghori.

This era saw the rise of five dynasties that shaped Delhi's architecture and administration.

Key Cities Built:

• Siri (2nd City): Built by Alauddin Khalji to defend against Mongol invasions.
• Tughlaqabad (3rd City): Built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq with massive stone walls.
• Jahanpanah (4th City): Built by Muhammad bin Tughlaq.
• Firozabad (5th City): Built by Firoz Shah Tughlaq (modern-day Feroz Shah Kotla).

The Mughal Impact

Shahjahanabad (7th City): Founded by Shah Jahan in 1639. This includes the iconic Red Fort and Jama Masjid (Old Delhi).

Lutyens' Delhi (British Era)

The capital shifted from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker, New Delhi was inaugurated in 1931.

Essential for UPSC/SSC Exams