Annadale, also spelled as Annandale, is a part of Shimla city, in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
[3] Due to its lush green environment, historical importance and first seen place by every VVIP visit, it is also known as the "Heart of Shimla".
[citation needed] According to another story, Charles Pratt Kennedy, the political agent of the British government who was assigned to find a suitable place in India for selecting the Summer Capital, came to Shimla hills in 1822.
It was a place of enjoyment and entertainment for the British, offering fancy dress shows, picnics, and birthday celebrations.
[6] Cultural and social festivals were organised there including Gymkhana, fete champetre and sports such as polo and cricket.
[7] British officers appreciated the nature and scenic charm of the site and protected it from disturbance by grotesque structures.
The Annadale Gymkhana committee, in its explanation, replied,[8][failed verification] The genesis of this shed was the desire of one of the Indian members of the club (Maharaja of Bharatpur) for the purdah ladies who then can view the sports from the shed.Gymkhana, polo, football, hockey, cricket matches, and other cultural and social festivals were organised in Annadale after independence.
Dussehra was the main event organised, attracting people from the city, but in 1972 a clash between army and police created enmity between the military and civil administration.
[13][14] Annadale Ground has a lot of importance in the city mainly due to its lead serving helipad.
The ground has been used for conducting various disaster relief and management exercises mainly because Shimla and its adjoining areas are earthquake prone.