Chandigarh

Introduction

Chandigarh is the district, city, and Union Territory of India. It is the capital of Punjab and Haryana. It is a major business center. Furthermore, It is formulated by Le Corbusier.

History 

During the partition of India and Pakistan, the capital of Punjab, Lahore moved to Pakistan. Later, 50 villages merged and formed Chandigarh as the capital of Punjab. Haryana separated from Punjab in 1966, while Chandigarh was on the border of Punjab and Haryana. Therefore, it was declared that the city is the capital as well as a union territory.

Fairs and festivals

Chandigarh is a city of enthusiasts. Fairs and festivals are celebrated wonderfully in Chandigarh. The popular fairs and festivals are Ramlila, Lohri, Navratri, Mango festival, and Rose festival.

Geography

Chandigarh is spread over 114km². It is surrounded by the Punjab and Haryana to the north and east. It is near the foothills of the Shivalik range. The few cities of Punjab and Haryana located near Chandigarh include Rupnagar, Mohali, Patiala, New Chandigarh, Zirakpur, Ambala, and Panchkula. Chandigarh is surrounded by rich species of flora and fauna.

Demographics

The total population of the city is 1,055,450 of which male is 55% and female is 45%. The total urban and rural population is 97.25% and 2.75%. Hindus are the primary religion and Sikhism is another prominent religion in the city. 

Culture

The culture of Chandigarh is a blend of several cultures. The culture is majorly influenced by neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana. The city's culture is reflected in its traditional festivals, customs, architectural styles, and costumes. The traditional attire of women is Kurta Salwar and Patiala suits, while men's traditional attire is kurta-Pajama and Punjabi Dhoti. 

Language

English is the official language of Chandigarh, while Hindi is the most spoken language and 22.03% of people speak Punjabi in Chandigarh. All these languages are used in government schools. 

Tourism

Chandigarh has several places to visit like historical monuments, museums, lakes, gardens, churches, temples, and amusement parks. But the city is famous for its gardens like Rose Garden, Rock Garden, etc.

Education

Chandigarh has a great literacy rate. The total literacy rate is 86.77%, of which male and female literacy rate is 90.81% and 81.88%.  The city has multiple educational institutions which are regulated by the government or private organizations. 

Dances and music 

Chandigarh's culture is influenced by Punjabi culture. There are two major popular dances: Giddha and Bhangra. Both dances are famous not only in Punjabi culture but also in non-Punjabi. The Chandigarh folk music is rhythmic. Rhythmic music is basic and simple.

Cuisine

Chandigarh cuisine is famed for its mouth-watering taste and decoration. In Chandigarh, pure Punjabi food is served. Desi ghee, butter, and Makhan (cheese) are the most dominant, dishes are incomplete without them. Chandigarhrian love to eat buttery naan and parathas. Chandigarh cuisine is also famous for vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The popular vegetarian dishes are Makki di roti, Sarson ka saag, palak paneer, stuffed vegetable Punjabi paratha, keema paneer, Punjabi chole Bhature, and non-veg dishes are butter chicken, chicken tikkas, tandoori fish, beef karahi, Kadai gosht, fish tikka, fish pakora, Amritsari fish, Hariyali chicken, etc. Punjabi lassi is the most popular beverage in Chandigarh.