How Jaipur, Jodhpur, Nagpur and other Indian cities got their colour and nickname names
From Jaipur's pink to Nagpur's orange, several Indian cities are better known by nicknames rooted in history, trade and natural beauty.
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Every city in India has its own story. Some are known by nicknames, often tied to colours, that are more popular among people than their original names. The cities earned these names because of their distinct features. One is called the Pink City, another the Orange City. Behind each name lies a story of history, culture, trade and natural beauty.
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known as the Pink City. The story goes back to 1876. It is said that Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II had the entire city painted terracotta pink to give a grand welcome to Albert Edward, the Prince of Wales, and Queen Victoria. The city has been called the Pink City since then.
Jodhpur is known as the Blue City. Most places in the city appear painted blue to a visitor. It is said that Brahmins began the practice of painting their houses blue, with the original aim of giving themselves a distinct identity. The custom later spread further across the city.
Surat in Gujarat is known as the Diamond City and is famous the world over for diamonds. Diamond cutting and polishing began in the city in the 1900s, and the trade later grew rapidly.
Nagpur in Maharashtra is popular worldwide for its sweet and juicy oranges. Lakhs of tonnes of oranges are produced here every year, which has made it the country's largest wholesale orange market. Nagpur came to be called the Orange City after the fruit.
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, is called the Evergreen City of India. The name was given by Mahatma Gandhi, who gave it on seeing the city's greenery and natural beauty.
