India Gate - New Delhi

In the heart of New Delhi rises the majestic 42-meter-high India Gate, positioned at the convergence of crossroads. This iconic structure stands as a solemn tribute to the 74,187 Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice fighting for the British Army during World War I. It also honors the memory of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers who lost their lives in the Afghan war of 1919 along the Northwestern Frontier.

Designed by Edwin Lutyens and inaugurated in 1931, India Gate's foundation stone was laid by the Duke of Connaught, in 1921. Originally known as the All-India War Memorial, this monumental arch became a symbol of India's capital, with its formal dedication coinciding with the declaration of New Delhi as the nation's capital. A poignant addition, the Amar Jawan Jyoti eternal flame, was later included post-independence to honor the soldiers who fell during the Indo-Pakistan War of December 1971.

Built upon a base of red Bharatpur stone, the grand arch rises in majestic stages to a towering height, adorned with imperial suns on its cornice. Inscribed with the poignant words "INDIA MCMXIV (1914)" and "MCMXIX (1919)," the archway bears a heartfelt dedication in English to the fallen heroes of the Indian armies. The inscription pays tribute to those who bravely served and perished in France, Flanders, Mesopotamia, Persia, East Africa, Gallipoli, and beyond, including those remembered for their sacrifice on the north-west frontier of India during the Third Afghan War.

At the summit, a shallow domed bowl was intended to hold a perpetual flame on significant anniversaries, though this tradition is now seldom observed. As dusk descends, India Gate is bathed in a mesmerizing flood of light, while nearby fountains twinkle with colorful illumination. 

Embracing this grand structure is a sprawling expanse of verdant lawns, a cherished retreat for picnickers and visitors alike. On summer evenings, the area buzzes with activity as crowds gather to bask in the luminous glow of India Gate, its splendid hues adding to the festive atmosphere. It's a time when the gate is not only a poignant symbol of remembrance but also a vibrant hub of life, offering a delightful array of street food delights to savor under its enchanting evening colors.

Happy travelling.