Delhi's Cultural Transformation: 41 Roundabouts to Showcase India's Diverse Heritage and Military Valor

Delhi's Public Works Department is undertaking an unprecedented beautification project to transform 41 major roundabouts into themed landmarks representing India's states, union territories, and Armed Forces. Scheduled for completion by January 2026, the initiative will feature distinctive cultural motifs ranging from Rajasthan's forts to Kerala's backwaters, creating a visual celebration of India's diverse heritage that enhances the capital's identity while offering residents and tourists a cultural journey at every turn.

From Ayodhya to Sikkim: Delhi's 41 Roundabouts to Tell India's Story

The beautification will incorporate artistic landscaping elements (Representational)

New Delhi:

Delhi's roadways are being transformed into a vivid exhibition of India's diverse cultural heritage. The Public Works Department (PWD) has unveiled an unprecedented beautification initiative that will convert 41 key roundabouts across the capital city into themed landmarks symbolizing the nation's states, union territories, and the courage of its Armed Forces.

Each roundabout will be dedicated to showcasing a specific region's cultural identity. The designs include architectural representations of Rajasthan's historic forts and palaces, the iconic Konark Sun Temple from Odisha, the revered Ram Temple of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, traditional monasteries of Sikkim, backwater-inspired aesthetic elements from Kerala, Gujarat's magnificent Statue of Unity, and intricate bamboo craftsmanship representing the North-Eastern states.

"We aim to give each roundabout a unique narrative that connects daily commuters to India's broader cultural landscape," explained a PWD representative to the media.

Several roundabouts will be dedicated to honoring India's military services. Special installations representing the Army, Navy, and Air Force will highlight the valor, discipline, and unifying strength of the nation's defenders.

"These transformed spaces won't merely enhance urban aesthetics but will serve as daily reminders of the bravery and sacrifice demonstrated by our Armed Forces," the official further noted.

The comprehensive beautification plans include artistic landscaping features, detailed murals, sculptural elements, themed greenery, and sophisticated lighting systems. PWD is engaging with a diverse team of artists, architects, and horticulture specialists to ensure each roundabout successfully blends traditional cultural aesthetics with contemporary urban design principles.

This ambitious project is scheduled for completion by late January 2026, strategically timed before Delhi's peak tourist influx, Republic Day celebrations, and spring festivals. Officials believe this initiative will strengthen Delhi's position as a truly representative national capital, reflecting India's unity within its diversity.

PWD Minister Parvesh Verma stated, "Delhi represents more than just a governmental headquarters; it embodies the heart of our entire nation. Every section of the capital should reflect India's unified diversity, cultural richness, and collective courage."

He continued, "Through this transformative project, PWD is elevating ordinary traffic junctions into extraordinary symbols of national pride, celebrating each State's unique heritage, various traditions, and the spirit of our Armed Forces that maintains our nation's strength and unity."

Once completed, these transformed roundabouts will offer Delhi's residents and visitors a cultural journey across India during their daily commutes, turning routine travel into a visual celebration of the country's rich and diverse heritage.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/from-ayodhya-to-sikkim-delhis-41-roundabouts-to-tell-indias-story-9588717