Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
New Delhi: There can be little doubt that the excitement is well and truly building ahead of Sunday’s AFC Annual Awards in New Delhi, India.
While the world eagerly waits to see which of Asia’s finest will be crowned for their 2015 endeavours, it is true to say that the fervour surrounding this year’s extravaganza is, in no small part, also down to the magnificence of the host city – after all, the Indian capital is a thriving venue that bridges two fascinating yet differing worlds.
Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques, while the imperial city of New Delhi - created by the British Raj - is an array of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings.
Delhi has been the seat of power for a multitude of rulers and many empires for close to a millennium and, over the years, the city has been built, destroyed and duly reconstructed.
The city's importance lies not just in its past glory as the seat of empires and magnificent monuments, but also in the rich and diverse cultures it is home to. There is little wonder that chroniclers of Delhi culture have never been at a loss for topics to discuss and debate.
In Delhi, you will discover that the city is sprinkled with dazzling gems from captivating ancient monuments, fascinating museums and art galleries to architectural wonders, a vivacious performing-arts scene, fabulous eating places and bustling markets.
Little wonder then that we truly can’t wait to get the show on the road!
Photo: AFP