The city of Chandigarh, popularly known as the “City Beautiful,” is unique among the cities of India. Nestled at the foothills of the Shivalik ranges, it boasts of a well-planned architecture, plenty of greenery, and deep cultural heritage. From historic importance to modern city design, here are 15 different facts that make Chandigarh exclusive.
1. India’s First Designed City
Chandigarh holds a special place because it was the first city in India to be planned after the country attained freedom. It was designed on the ideas of Jawaharlal Nehru. The design was made by a famous architect named Le Corbusier, who came from France. Chandigarh boasts a unique layout with smart city planning, showing the hopes of India for a modern future. This has become a model for other cities across the country.
2. Special Govеrnmеnt Rolе
Chandigarh acts as the capital city for both Punjab and Haryana. In addition, it is a specially designed area that is directly governed by the central government of India. This special setting makes the city very different and brings together different kinds of cultures to facilitate a healthy and diverse lifestyle in this city.
3. Thе Opеn Hand Monument
The Open Hand Monument, which was set up in Chandigarh, is a symbol designed by the great architect Le Corbusier. The open hand will remind one of harmony, inclusiveness, and peace, reflecting values the city upholds. This hand swings gently with the breeze and catches the essence of giving and receiving, reflecting the spirit of unity and acceptance for Chandigarh.”.
4. The Absence of Sector 13
Due to superstitions, Chandigarh does not have a Sector 13. This number was deemed unlucky, leading to its exclusion in the city’s design. Sectors are numbered from 1 to 12 and then from 14 onwards, with the city’s layout carefully preserved, except for the omission of Sector 13.
5. A City Lacking Tall Structures or Skyscrapers
Chandigarh’s architecture features low-rise buildings, a deliberate choice by Le Corbusier. The city layout emphasizes spaces, natural light, and ventilation through spacious roads and numerous green areas. This design approach promotes a balance between growth and the preservation of a serene ambiance.
6. The Rock Garden
The Rock Garden stands out as a renowned attraction in Chandigarh. Designed by Nek Chand using materials from industrial and household waste, it spans 40 acres and showcases sculptures and art pieces that embody creativity and eco-friendliness while celebrating the city’s artistic spirit and environmental consciousness.
7. City of Gardens
Chandigarh is also known as the “City of Gardens” because it has a number of well-planned parks. Zakir Hussain Rose Garden, occupying an area of 30 acres with over 1,600 varieties, happens to be the biggest in Asia. Green areas like Sukhna Lake and Leisure Valley add to the city’s attractiveness, offering peaceful retreats.
8. The Capitol Complex Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Capitol Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site designed by Le Corbusier. This intensive architecture houses the Secretariat, Legislative Assembly, and High Court buildings symbolising Chandigarh’s commitment to modernism, democracy, and innovative spirit. It is also a testament to this city’s unique identity and historical value.
9. High Rate of literacy
This city boasts of enjoying one of the highest literacy rates in the country, indicative of how well this city has invested in education. Prestigious institutions like Panjab University and various colleges and research centres nurture a culture that gives importance to the education and intellectual development of its people.
10. Named in Honour of Chandi Mandir
The name Chandigarh is derived from the Chandi Mandir, an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi. This connection enriches the identity of the city by infusing a spiritual touch, merging the modern cityscape with traditional religious and cultural identity.
11. A Centre for Biking
Chandigarh is known as one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in India, with designated cycling tracks along most main roads. The city promotes cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation, providing safety and convenience to cyclists, which is in line with its dedication to environmental conservation and healthy lifestyles.
͏12. Home to the Harappan Civilization
The surroundings of Chandigarh formed a part of the Harappan Civilization. Archaeological remains found date back more than 5,000 years. The rich historical backdrop adds to the importance of the city that amalgamates ancient heritage with modern urban life.
1͏3. Haven for Pensioners
Clean air, tranquillity, and great infrastructure have made Chandigarh popularly a “Retiree’s Paradise.” Most retirees, normally government employees, prefer to retreat here and enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with good healthcare and various recreational amenities.
14. Chandigarh is known as thе Greenest City
Chandigarh is frequently praised as India’s greenest city due to its expansive green belts and tree plantations. The city’s planners prioritised green spaces and sustainable development, introducing a variety of trees and flowers within its limits to improve its beauty and environmental well-being, totaling over 22 tree species and 26 types of flowers planted.
15. Greenest City in India
Owing to the vast extent of green belts and tree plantations, Chandigarh is considered the greenest city in India. The planners had given enormous importance to green space and sustainable development. There are many species of trees and flowers within the city, with over 22 species of trees and 26 types of flowers, adding to more beauty and ecological health.
Conclusion
Besides being so well-planned, Chandigarh stands for a beautiful amalgamation of history, culture, modernity, and nature. Harmony in its layout, cultural diversity, and its unique status make it an exceptionally nice place to stay, visit, and explore. The above 15 interesting facts show that Chandigarh possesses all the essentials constituting it as “The City Beautiful.”
