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 India Gate is a war monument constructed in the memory of soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I. Located at Rajpath, this 42-metre high Indian monument is now considered a popular picnic and relaxation spot. Also called the All India War Memorial, India Gate was designed and constructed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. This Indian monument is said to have striking similarities to its French counterpart.
About the structure
The foundation stone of India Gate in Delhi was laid by His Royal Highness Duke of Connaught. The construction was completed in February 1921. It was constructed as a memorial in honour of the 90,000 soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I. The entire arch stands on a low base of red Bharatpur stone and rises in stages to a huge moulding. The cornice is inscribed with the Imperial suns while on both the sides of the arch has India flanked by the dates MCMXIV (1914 left) and MCMXIX (1919 right) inscribed on it. The shallow domed bowl at the top was intended to be filled with burning oil on anniversaries but this practice is not followed these days. The India Gate hexagon complex covers an area of approximately 306000 metres with a diameter of about 625metres.
The structure was dedicated to the nation about 10 years later by Lord Irwin, the Viceroy then. Also 13,516 names of British and Indian soldiers have been engraved on the arch and foundation of the structure to pay respect to the soldiers who were killed on the North-West Frontier in the Afghan War of 1919.
Originally, a statue of King George V was erected under the now vacant canopy in front of the India Gate, which was later removed.
About Amar Jawan Jyoti
Amar Jawan Jyoti or the flame of the immortal warrior was added much later (after India became independent) to the India Gate. There is an eternal flame lit there that has been burning under it since 1971. The flame reminds the sacrifice of these brave soldiers who gave their lives during the Indo Pakistan War of December 1971. This is why India Gate holds a special place in the heart of every true Indian.
Importance of the structure
Today it is customary for the President and the Prime Minister to pay homage at the site on occasions of state ceremonies and Republic Day (January 26). The Prime Minister pays homage to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives before joining the annual parade at the Rajpath.
For commoners
India Gate has a lot to offer the lay man. One can stroll around to soak in the tranquillity of the place. A look at it and one can go into retrospect of the Raj rule and the oppression of our people. It now exalts a feeling of triumph over tyranny.
So the next time you visit India Gate do not forget to enjoy all aspects of this special Indian monument.
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