PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
PSC Miscellaneous Prelims 2018
Answer
Kolkata
Explanation
Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is famously known as the 'City of Palaces'. During the British Raj, Kolkata served as the capital of British India until 1911. During this period, the British and wealthy Bengali Zamindars constructed numerous grand mansions, administrative buildings, and palaces featuring European and Indo-Saracenic architectural styles. Prominent examples include the Marble Palace, Victoria Memorial, and Raj Bhavan.
Key Points
- > Kolkata is known as the 'City of Palaces'.
- > It is also famously referred to as the 'City of Joy'.
- > Jaipur is globally known as the 'Pink City'.
- > Mysore is also famous for its palaces (like Mysore Palace), but historically Kolkata holds the title 'City of Palaces' in India.
- > Mumbai is called the 'City of Seven Islands' and the Financial Capital of India.
- > Lucknow is known as the 'City of Nawabs'.
Additional Information
Popular Sobriquets of Indian Cities
| City Name | Popular Sobriquet |
|---|---|
| Kolkata | City of Palaces, City of Joy |
| Bengaluru | Silicon Valley of India, Garden City |
| Jaipur | Pink City |
| Hyderabad | City of Pearls |
| Pune | Deccan Queen |
Memory Tips
- Historical Context: Since Kolkata was the capital of the British Empire in India for over a century, the highest number of grand colonial mansions and palaces were built here.