India Gate, located in New Delhi, India, is a significant architectural structure that serves as both a National War Memorial and a monumental arch. Its construction was undertaken to pay tribute to the brave sacrifice of 84,000 soldiers from the Indian Army who lost their lives during the First World War and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Notably, the names of 13,300 servicemen, including individuals from the United Kingdom, are meticulously engraved on this magnificent gate.
Sir Edwin Lutyens, a renowned British architect who was also responsible for the planning of New Delhi, designed the gate. It bears a striking resemblance to the ancient Roman triumphal arches, particularly the Arch of Constantine, and is often likened to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Gateway of India in Mumbai. Constructed from sandstone, the gate stands tall at a height of 42 meters.
Located beneath the archway lies a remarkable edifice known as Amar Jawan Jyoti, translating to Flame of the Immortal Soldier. This structure comprises a black marble pedestal adorned with a reversed rifle, a war helmet, and four perpetual flames. Erected in 1971, it serves as a poignant tribute to the valiant soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Bangladesh Liberation War. Today, it stands as India's hallowed tomb of the unknown soldier, embodying the nation's unwavering pride.
India Gate is situated at the eastern terminus of Rajpath, the ceremonial avenue of New Delhi. It is encompassed by verdant gardens and ornamental fountains, making it a favoured destination for picnics and recreational pursuits. On Republic Day, the Prime Minister of India honours the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate, followed by a magnificent procession along Rajpath. Additionally, India Gate serves as a venue for civil society demonstrations and cultural festivities.
India Gate stands as a colossal and renowned war memorial in India. It serves as a testament to the valour and selflessness exhibited by Indian soldiers, while also serving as a poignant reminder of the rich history and cultural legacy of the nation.
The construction of India Gate commenced in 1921 as a part of the British initiative to erect graves and memorials for the Indian and British soldiers who served the British Empire in the First World War. On 10th February 1921, the Duke of Connaught laid the foundation stone of this war memorial, which was ultimately inaugurated by Lord Irwin, India's Viceroy, on 12th February 1931. This monument stands as a dedication to the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the war, ensuring that future generations would forever remember their noble devotion to their country.
Facts about India Gate
1. The India Gate proudly displays the names of countless soldiers who valiantly fought for their nation and made the ultimate sacrifice.
2. On the 26th of January 1972, Indira Gandhi lit the sacred flame of Amar Jawan Jyoti.
3. The renowned Arc de Triomphe of Paris served as the inspiration for the design of this magnificent gate.
4. This monumental structure is widely recognized as one of the largest war memorials in the entire country.
5. Additionally, the monument holds great significance as it serves as the prestigious venue for the annual Republic Day parade.
Amar Jawan Jyoti
Located beneath the India Gate, there exists a small shrine-like structure crafted from black marble, perpetually illuminated by a burning flame. Constructed in the aftermath of the Indo-Pakistani war in 1971, the Amar Jawan Jyoti, also known as the Flame of the Immortal Soldier, serves as a tribute to the fallen soldiers of the Bangladesh Liberation War. Atop a marble pedestal rests a black cenotaph, adorned with the words 'Amar Jawan' in golden lettering on all four sides. Positioned on the cenotaph is an inverted L1A1 self-loading rifle, accompanied by a soldier's helmet. Encircling the marble pedestal are four urns, one of which houses an everlasting flame. This memorial stands under the constant watch of soldiers from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Air Force, ensuring its protection day and night.
Design of India Gate
Sir Edwin Lutyens, renowned for his exceptional talent in designing war memorials, was responsible for creating the blueprint of the All India War memorial in New Delhi. Situated at the heart of a hexagonal complex measuring 625 metres in diameter, India Gate occupies a vast area of 360,000 square metres. Standing tall at a height of 42 metres and boasting a width of 9.1 metres, this magnificent structure is built upon a low base made of red stone sourced from Bharatpur, gradually ascending in stages. At the pinnacle of the India Gate, there is a shallow dome-shaped bowl that is occasionally filled with burning oil during special occasions. This secular memorial, devoid of any religious or cultural symbolism, showcases Lutyen's preference for a universal architectural style, devoid of religious embellishments. Due to its resemblance to the Arch de Triomphe, it has also been referred to as its counterpart. Adjacent to the awe-inspiring India Gate, approximately 150 metres away, stands a canopy-like structure, also designed by Edwin Lutyens. Initially, it featured a statue of Lord George V, which was subsequently removed.
Inscription on India Gate
The capital letters 'India' is engraved on both sides of the arch of India Gate, accompanied by the dates MCMXIV (1914) and MCMXIX (1919). Below the word 'India', in capital letters, there is an inscription that reads: " To the dead of the Indian armies who fell and are honoured in France and Flanders Mesopotamia and Persia East Africa Gallipoli and elsewhere in the near and the far-east in sacred memory also of those whose names are here recorded and who fell in India or the north-west frontier and during the Third Afghan War."
The Central Secretariat Metro Station, located on the Yellow Line, is the closest metro station to India Gate, making it the most convenient mode of transportation. Other metro stations such as Pragati Maidan, Race Course, and Barakhamba are also nearby. From any of these stations, you can easily hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach India Gate. Another option is to take a DTC bus from any part of the city, as buses heading towards Patiala House also pass by India Gate. However, it is important to note that tourists are not permitted to bring vehicles to the memorial.
India Gate at Night
India Gate is truly awe-inspiring at any time of the day, but its grandeur is heightened during the evening hours. Even late at night, India Gate is bustling with people. Before returning home, take a peaceful walk along the Rajpath, admiring the view of India Gate, and treat yourself to your favorite ice cream.
Activities at India Gate
India Gate offers a plethora of activities to engage in and enjoy the outdoors. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Enjoy a leisurely outing with loved ones at this picturesque spot, where you can bask in the beauty of India Gate as your backdrop.
2. Commence your day on a refreshing note by taking a morning stroll along Rajpath towards India Gate.
3. Indulge in the mouthwatering street food offerings available from various vendors stationed near India Gate. Treat yourself to refreshing chuskis and ice-creams during sunny days, and savor corn on the cob during the monsoon season.
4. The nearby Children's Park provides a delightful and entertaining space for kids to have a great time.
Best Time to Visit India Gate
Delhi experiences extreme temperatures, with summers and winters being unbearable and the monsoon season limiting outdoor activities. However, the best months to visit Delhi are from February to April and August to November. India Gate is a must-visit attraction that can be explored at any time of the day. The night view of India Gate is truly breathtaking, thanks to its perfect lighting. Additionally, India Gate is beautifully decorated on Independence Day (August 15) and Republic Day (January 26), adding to its visual appeal.
