One of the most interesting monuments in Delhi is the India Gate. Dedicated to the soldiers of the country and their bravery, the monument still stands proudly after so many years. But the serenading experience, the beauty in the silence that envelops India Gate is infectious. Sometimes, to the point of feeling the spirits that mark the names on the monument.
So, we thought of collating a list of unknown and interesting facts about India Gate and we wonder how many you know already!
I. One Of The Oldest Standing Monuments
The construction of the India Gate started in 1921. However, due to its enormity, it was only completed in 1931. 10 years after Duke of Connaught laid its foundation stone! The architecture of India Gate is said to have been inspired by Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
II. One Of The Tallest Monuments In Delhi
India Gate stands tall at whopping 42 metres. In fact, the entire monument was inscribed with the names of over 82,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives in the Afghan War and World War I.
III. Converted To Indian Army’s War Memorial Post-Independence
It was only after Independence in 1947, that this Great War Memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers in the British Army was converted into the Indian Army’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
IV. The Amar Jawan Jyoti
Amar Jawan Jyoti was placed in a shrine – a cenotaph made of black marble. Along with this, a rifle and a helmet of a soldier were placed on top of the rifle. It was found to be the best way to celebrate the memories of the soldiers who lost their lives in the 1971 Indo Pak war.
V. One Of The Largest War Memorials In The Country
India Gate is regarded as one of the largest war memorials of the country. In fact, it is visited by millions of Indian and international tourists every year – making it one of the star attractions of the city. Besides, you can find dozens of families picnicking in the lawns surrounding India Gate throughout the summer months.
So, how many of these facts did YOU ACTUALLY know?
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