Colonial Echoes of Shimla 2025

Our visit to Shimla allowed us to see its colonial past through the eyes of a common man. We discovered how each part of British architecture looks amidst Shimla’s mountains. This journey offered us a chance to imagine British officials galloping past on white horses and to feel the eerie, imposing presence of the British architecture.

While sipping our morning tea from the balcony, we looked out over the British architecture—structures that still carried the authoritative air of administration. During our visit, we came to understand the history behind these buildings, and how deeply they reflected the colonial order imposed on Shimla. While the Indians were breaking their backs in the heat of the plains, the Britishers would escape to their newly declared summer capital.

This marked a new chapter in Shimla’s history, as colonial architecture began to merge with the natural beauty that surrounded it. As we explored Mall Road, we caught glimpses of our motherland during an era when India’s politics unfolded under the shadow of British rule.

Each time we walked through the Ridge, right past the Gaiety Theatre, we were reminded of the beautifully crafted theatrics and grand balls that once brought the town to life. We were amazed to learn that Shimla’s idyllic climate solidified its status as a prominent hill station. It became not only a place for the British to lounge, but also a centerpiece for India’s evolving political landscape.

As we walked back to our bus, still feeling the lingering weight of British rule, the stars above and the crickets around reminded us that this moment, too, would give way to a new dawn. We hope that even years from now, the people of India continue to cherish and breathe Shimla’s wild yet comforting air—embracing the British architecture without being burdened by the past.

Writen By Aaradhya Sharma, Charvi Kumar Kannojiya, Ehman Kaur Narang, Nishelle Mattoo, and Saanvi Tanwar (Queen’s Valley School, Dwarka).

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