The
India Gate is a 42 metres high stone arch of triumph that bears the
names of 85,000 Indian army soldiers who died in the campaigns of
WWI,
the North-West Frontier operations of the same time and the 1919
Afghan fiasco. The India Gate stands at the eastern end of the
Rajpath (Kingsway) in New Delhi. The Rajpath is immensely broad and
is flanked on either side by ornamental ponds. Every 26th January,
millions of people gather to enjoy the Republic Day Parade that is
held here. The India Gate stands on the eastern end of Rajpath and
Rashtrapati Bhavan, the president’s residence, at the western
end.
It bears the name of the 85,000 Indian Army
Soldiers who died during the wars. Below the arch is the memorial to
the Unknown Soldier. India Gate, the majestic structure, is set at
the end of Rajpath, perhaps the most beautiful area of New Delhi
with plush green lawns in the backdrop. Designed and built by
Lutyens, it was originally called All India War Memorial in memory
of the Indian soldiers who died during the Wars. The names of all
the soldiers are inscribed on the walls of the structure. An eternal
flame called Amar Jawan Jyoti that runs on gas was lit in 1971 to
honour the martyrs.
The shallow domed bowl at the top
was intended to be filled with burning oil on anniversaries but this
is rarely done. Surrounding the imposing structure is a large
expanse of lush green lawns, which is a popular picnic spot. One can
see hoards of people moving about the brightly lit area and on the
lawns on summer evenings. Surrounding the imposing structure is a
large expanse of lush green lawns, which is a popular picnic spot.
One can see hoards of people moving about the brightly lit area and
on the lawns on summer evenings.
Picnic spotA
fascinating and wonderful monument! Enjoy the lush green lawns of
India Gate, which house the famous boat club and a children's park.
The lawns come alive in the evening with picnicking families and
couples taking a stroll. Little children run about playing with
balloons and eating ice-creams purchased from nearby vendors. The
use of special lighting means that the monument looks even more
striking at night than it does by day.
