"Universal architectural style free of religious ornamentation"

The 42m high archway bearing the names of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the pride of their nation in WW1 and Anglo Afghan War, is pivoted at the heart of the India’s capital, New Delhi. Built by Sir Edwin Lutyens, in 1931, the monument is of utmost significance to India. It took a decade for it to be built. This memorial commemorates the selfless service of the soldiers for the well-being of the nation. 

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Following the Independence of India, the India Gate has also serves as the tomb of the unknown Soldiers of the Indian Armed forces. The ‘Amar Javan Jyoti’, with a flame burning continuously, signifies the immortal passion of patriotism which flowed through the bloods of the soldiers- the unknown soldiers- who devoted their life for their nation’s independence.

 

The magnificent monument, also called the All India War memorial, which straddles the beginning of roads and is encircled by wide lawns, stands on stone base which is made up of red Bharatpur stone. It’s structure resembles the ‘Arc de Triomphe’ in Paris

 

Additionally, the sense of pride and prestige is further strengthened when one sees the three flags of the defense forces at the India Gate- the army, navy and the air force, blowing throughout the day. Additionally, the republic day parade on the 26th of January is hosted at the India Gate each year.

 

The India Gate is nothing less than a shrine for patriotic people. It is one of the most commonly visited places in New Delhi. The best time to visit this monument is during the winter afternoons and the breezy evenings. During this time, the heart of the city is bustling with local vendors and enthusiastic visitors while the India gate stands fully lit, amidst the fountains, making it an ideal location for relaxation and an enjoyable stroll. India Gate is located at the Rajpath Marg in New Delhi.

 

A patriotic zeal is evoked when one reads the following lines which are inscribed on the monument:

“To the dead of the Indian armies who fell honored in France and Flanders Mesopotamia and Persia East Africa Gallipoli and elsewhere in the near and the far-east and in sacred memory also of those whose names are recorded and who fell in India or the north-west frontier and during the Third Afghan War.”