Who was the designer of the master plan for New Delhi?

The designer of the master plan for New Delhi was Sir Edward Lutyens. He played a crucial role in laying out the new capital of India, which was officially inaugurated in 1931. Lutyens, alongside Herbert Baker, conceptualized the city as a symbol of British imperial power, characterized by grand boulevards, extensive gardens, and monumental buildings.

Lutyens’ design emphasized wide avenues and large public spaces, integrating Western architectural styles with local elements, which was a significant departure from the dense urban fabric of historical Indian cities. This masterful blend resulted in a city that not only served functional purposes but also aimed to reflect the aspirations of the British Raj while considering the local context.

While other renowned architects like Le Corbusier, Louis Kahn, and Oscar Niemeyer contributed significantly to modern architecture, they were not involved in the planning of New Delhi. Le Corbusier is known for his work in Chandigarh, which was another Indian city designed after independence, while Kahn and Niemeyer were celebrated for their projects in different contexts and eras.