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The University of Delhi (DU) is famous for a lot of things. From the food to the gala experience the University offers, there’s something more that lies hidden in plain sight, something that’s at the heart of DU’s life: the acclaimed architecture with its glorious history. Dig in deep to explore how Indraprastha College for Women stands as one of the tall bearers of DU’s proud architectural history.

Fests? Check.

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Politics? Check.

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Protests? Check.

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Apart from the quintessential characteristics which are often associated with the University of Delhi, one seemingly evident, yet highly ignored one is that of the architectural history that the University has to offer, be it to its students, professors or the celebrities and stars.

Bollywood has been a great contributor in bringing out the campus life on the big screen, showcasing DU to the world; mirroring the liberty, expressions,  and emotions which buzz through the DU experience.

Shooting of the film Raazi (2018) at Miranda House, University of Delhi
Shooting of the film Raazi (2018) at Miranda House, University of Delhi

The architectural history of DU is one which is associated with the culture of British architecture, remnants of the freedom struggle, the graffiti art, walls of democracy, and well, the famous red walls.

It is this heritage of the architectural history, which DU has carried forward with itself. This heritage that has survived the tests of times and has become an integral part of the college and University experience a student gains here at DU.

Looking up at the architectural history, Indraprastha College for Women is one such gem of DU that boasts of a rich and glorious past.

Indraprastha College for Women- 95 years of excellence.
Indraprastha College for Women- 95 years of excellence.

Formerly the residence-cum-office of the British Army’s Commander-in-Chief, the college is famous for its quiet ambience transporting you back to the era of the British the moment you step into its campus.

Being the oldest women’s college of the University, the college offers the charm of the past in its aura. Founded by Annie Besant, the college still speaks of its glorious past, both via the structures as well as the discussions in the campus.

The college building has been declared a heritage building by the Government of NCT of Delhi, as well as a recognised heritage site, thereby strengthening the deep historical ties the college holds with history.

The colonial architecture greets you as soon as you step into the college, with the presence of two pavilions situated at the entry that comprise of the elegant Roman Tuscan columns.

As one moves ahead and stands before the main heritage building, the rich infrastructure captures attention. The British colonial architecture featuring wide arches, massive wooden doors, square columns, and a pristine white building against the backdrop of a small fountain, gives the college the appearance of being straight out of an English classic.

The college also comprises of a museum and archives centre wherein lies an amazing collection of photographs, artefacts, articles and magazines which date back to the early 1920s.

So, what are you waiting for? The rich history of IP College awaits for you to discover it!

Feature Image Credits: Times of India, Hindustan Times, DU Beat Archives.

Amrashree Mishra

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