Chandigarh: A Forgotten City or a Global City

Chandigarh is a unique city in India, as it is both a union territory and a shared capital of two states: Punjab and Haryana. It was one of the first planned cities in post-independence India, designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier and his team. Chandigarh is known for its modern architecture, urban design, and green spaces. It has a high per capita income, human development index, and literacy rate among Indian cities12 However, Chandigarh also faces some challenges and criticisms. Some people find the city boring, as it lacks cultural diversity, nightlife, and entertainment options3 Others argue that the city has failed to preserve its heritage and original vision, as it has expanded beyond its planned boundaries and faced problems such as traffic congestion, pollution, and encroachment4 Moreover, the city’s status as a shared capital has been a source of political dispute between Punjab and Haryana, as both states claim it as their own. Therefore, Chandigarh can be seen as both a forgotten city and a global city, depending on one’s perspective. It is a city that has achieved remarkable achievements, but also faced significant challenges. It is a city that has a proud history, but also an uncertain future. It is a city that deserves more attention and appreciation, but also more improvement and innovation.