Delhi is a variegated ensemble of noisy streets and imposing historical monuments, with an almost invisible world of green sandwiched between them. A sanctuary that is most easily overlooked in the tumult of city life, “Gardens of Delhi,” a new book by Swapna and Madhulika Liddle in collaboration with Prabhas Roy, has provided a refreshing and intimate look at this green aspect of the Indian capital. It is the kind of meticulously researched work that takes the reader on a walk through the secret gardens in the capital, sharing with him their rich history, cultural importance, and serene beauty.
The book reveals lesser-known yet magnificent gardens dotting the Delhi landscape, going far beyond the well-trodden paths of the more famous ones, like the Mughal Gardens or even the Lodi Gardens. “Gardens of Delhi” weaves a tapestry of green, reflecting the vast diversity of historical and cultural layers that make up the city, with evocative text and sumptuous photographs.
Swapna and Madhulika Liddle are known for their deep engagement with the historical and cultural narrative of Delhi, lending an informed perspective to this initiative. It is through such detailed research, which is further substantiated by the photographic skills of Prabhas Roy, that one was able to view Delhi as a metropolitan city where green spaces maintain a chronicle of yore.
The principal contribution the book makes is that of a historical lens for these gardens. It goes into great detail on how, from the very roots of so many green spaces, they have moved from royal-pleasure gardens and colonial estates to public parks and private oases. This historicization allows readers to better appreciate the various gardens in the urban fabric of Delhi.
For instance, the imperial Shalimar Bagh has been brought to light by the book; it used to be a retreat for the Mughal emperors. Its evolution over the centuries and its contribution to the glorification of Mughal horticulture are described. So are the gardens laid out during British times, notably those by Sir Edwin Lutyens, in terms of the colonial impact on green Delhi.
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The historic setting is but one of the many cultural and personal aspects reflected by the gardens showcased in the book. “Gardens of Delhi” brings forth many stories from residents, gardeners, historians, and people sharing their relationships with these green spaces. Thereby, it adds thick human interest to the book by including the storytelling of how gardens have silently been present at countless such personal and communal moments, from quiet meditations to festive gatherings.
It is also how the gardens bring to life the cultural and spiritual identity of Delhiites that comes out through this book. Most of these gardens, not only pleasing to the eye, have turned into places of solace and contemplation where people come to seek peace from the hustle of the city. For so many, these gardens are sanctuaries that provide much-needed respite and connect with nature amidst urban living.
Prabhas Roy’s photographs are outstanding in “Gardens of Delhi.” Every photograph carries with it something that gives off the spirit of the gardens, showing them at different seasons and times of the day. Ranging from panoramic shots of sprawling landscapes to close-ups of intricate floral details, the images present a visual journey through Delhi’s green spaces. His mastery over light and composition simply brings the gardens alive and puts them almost within touching distance.
The design of the book is as beautiful as its content. It is well-curated for the reading experience, showing high-quality prints and great planning in the visuals and text arrangement. This is what makes “Gardens of Delhi” not only a read but a treasure to keep.
Though more in the nature of a book, “Gardens of Delhi” is an invitation to visit, explore, and appreciate the hitherto hidden green gems of this capital city. It would foster in the readers a desire and urge to visit these gardens and see their beauty with their own eyes. This book will inspire new interest in Delhi’s green heritage and show that, through detailed accounts and evocative photographs, these areas should be preserved for generations to come.
This makes the book invaluable in the existing literature on urban green spaces due to the authors’ careful research and commitment to highlighting the gardens of Delhi. It reminds me of what such natural sanctuaries can do to improve the quality of life in an urban setting.
