India Gate

[1]Delhi is a city soaked in history and tradition and India Gate is a site of significant historic value. India Gate is the way India respects its solder’s sacrifices. Sir Edwin Landseer Lutyens, who was inspired by the local and traditional Indian architecture, designed the 42-meter high monument to commemorate the sacrifice of Indian solders during the second World War. Previously it was called as All India War Memorial. The tradition of honouring the martyrs by engraving names continue to this day and when India won the war against Pakistan in 1971, Amar Jawan Jyoti was added to it to remember the sacrifice of the soldiers who laid down their lives for the country.

Bharatpur stone acts as a foundation for the big arch that rises in stages to a huge cornice, underneath which are inscribed Imperial suns. Above on both sides is inscribed INDIA, flanked by MCM and to the right, XIX. The shallow domed bowl at the top was intended to be filled with burning oil on anniversaries but this is rarely done.

Sprawling gardens juxtaposing the towering edifice makes a perfect spot for picnics. The pleasure of enjoying the salubrious air and watching an exhilarating world pass by is an experience that goes out of the reach of words. A boat ride alongside the lawns in the cool breeze with sun setting in the background is very relaxing experience.

As sun disappears giving way to night, India Gate along with nearby fountains are flood lit. The fair-like festive environment is enhanced by numerous hawkers selling ice cream, street food, toys and balloons.
History estimates that 64, 449 soldiers died fighting for the motherland. So whatever is the reason to visit India Gate – to get a moment’s solitude, or an opportunity to go out with family, or an excuse to be close to nature – India Gate provides almost every one a reason to stand, stare and smile