“When you go home, tell them of us, and tell that for their tomorrow, we gave our today”, is a famous eulogy for the soldiers who died in the battlefield of Kohima in 1944. John Maxwell Edmonds was the author of this eulogy and since its first usage, this one line has been the most correct description of the sacrifices of the soldiers. Keeping the same sentiment intact, the National War Memorial in Delhi is an epitome of sacrifice of the martyrs of India during World War 1 and third Anglo Afghan War. It is a must visit place in New Delhi near India Gate. The memorial serves as an inspiration for future generations to defend the sovereignty and integrity of our country.
Here is everything you need to know about National War Memorial Delhi.
Also Check Out: Delhi Tourism Guide
Origin of National War Memorial
The first talk about a National War Memorial started in 1960 when the armed forces of our country requested the government for the commemoration of fallen soldiers at a War Memorial. However, the project never really took off. Followed by a persistent demand in the year 2006, the UPA government formed a committee to overlook the demands of armed forces. In 2015, the current NDA government approved the construction of the memorial near India Gate, honoring the sacrifice of soldiers during multiple wars. Although the memorial was slated to open in August 2018, it was finally inaugurated on February 25, 2019.
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Significance of National War Memorial Delhi
Built in the vicinity of India Gate, which is also called All India War Memorial, the National War Memorial pays homage to the soldier who laid their lives during the Indo-Sino war of 1962, Indo-Pak war of 1947, 1965, 1971 and Kargil Conflict of 1999 and India’s Peacekeeping Force Operations in Sri Lanka. The memorial would honor 25,942 fallen soldiers. The National War memorial is a symbol of victory and national pride of citizens. It invokes a sense of gratitude for the armed forces of our country.
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Interesting Fact about National War Memorial Delhi
- For the design of the Memorial, a global competition was held. The contest was launched through MyGov.in portal and sP+a Studios from Mumbai won the design for the War Museum, while Chennai based WeBe Design Lab’s design for the memorial was declared the winner.
- Projected to be a popular tourism attraction in Delhi, the National War Memorial was built at a cost of 176 Crores.
- One of the best patriotic places to visit in Delhi, the war memorial houses an eternal flame similar to India Gate. The flame represents the immortality of their sacrifice. It represents that their sacrifice will always be remembered by the citizens of India.
- The memorial has 16 walls and the pattern of the wall resembles a chakravyuh, an ancient Indian war formation.
- The National War Memorial also houses the statues of 21 Param Vir Chakra Awardees at the Param Yodha Sthal.
- The lighting scheme in the memorial is designed to highlight the details, materials and colours within the complete landscape. It also enhances the emotive and visual experience.
- The lighting at Rakshak Chakra reflects solidity and duality, The Tyag Chakra reflects supreme sacrifices, Veerta Chakra highlights bravery and victory and the eternal flame is a sign of purity.
- The stone murals, Tyag Chakra Totems and Veerta Chakra bronze murals will also captivate the mind of the visitors.
Also Read: Information About Popular Memorials in Delhi
How to Reach National War Memorial?
Located near the famous Delhi tourism attraction of India Gate, National War Memorial can be easily accessed through public or private transport.
National War Memorial Location: India Gate
Nearest Metro Stations
- Violet Line – Khan Market 2 km, Janpat 2 km
- Yellow Line – Udyog Bhawan 2.5 km and Central Secretariat 2.5km
- Blue Line – Mandi House 1.5km and Pragati Maidan 2.5km
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Entry Fee and Visiting Time for the Memorial
There is no entry fee for visiting the National War Memorial in Delhi.
Timings for National War Memorial: Open on all days of the week, the timings for the War Memorial Delhi is from 9 am to 7:30 pm. However, the timings are supposed to change after March. From April, the timings would be 9 am to 8:00 pm. However, the entry to the memorial is restricted on certain days.
Also Read: Must Visit Museums in Delhi
Tourist Attractions to Visit Near National War Memorial
- India Gate: India Gate is another famous war memorial commemorating Indian soldiers who died in World War 1 and Third Anglo-Afghan War.
- Rashtrapati Bhawan: Another popular tourist attraction near the National War Memorial is the President House. With a special permit, you can visit the inside of the buildings.
- Rajpath: Formerly known as Kingsway, the ceremonial boulevard between India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan is a significant spot. The Republic Day parade marches on this road.
- Humayun’s Tomb: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the monument was built by Bea Begum, wife of Humayun. It is the tomb of the famous Mughal Emperor. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi near the National War Memorial.
- Agrasen Ki Baoli: The famous Baoli has been made popular after it was part of numerous Bollywood movies. There are many gothic stories about its origin and powers which can only be verified by visiting here. You must visit Agrasen Ki Baoli if you are a history buff.
If you are in a quest to explore the best of Indian tourism then it is absolutely essential to know about the significance of national monuments of India. The National War Memorial is a pride of citizens as it commemorates the sacrifice of Indian Soldiers. You must see the National War Memorial to know about the greatest warriors behind the making of Incredible India safe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the location of the National War Memorial Delhi?
The National War Memorial is located near India Gate.
What is the nearest Metro Station to the National War Memorial?
- Violet Line - Khan Market 2 km, Janpat 2 km
- Yellow Line - Udyog Bhawan 2.5 km and Central Secretariat 2.5km
- Blue Line - Mandi House 1.5km and Pragati Maidan 2.5km
What are the visiting timings for the National War Memorial?
- November to March -9:00 am to 7:30pm
- April to October - 9:00am to 8:00pm
Is there any ticket fee for the National War Memorial?
The visit to the National War Memorial is absolutely free.
Do we need to purchase any tickets for visiting the National War Memorial?
No, you don’t need any tickets to visit the National War Memorial.
What is the best time to visit the National War Memorial?
Evening time is the best time to visit the National war memorial. You will be able to enjoy the retreat drill and lighting scheme.
About the author
Born and brought up in the Lucknowi tehzeeb, Ashwini wishes to someday settle in a quaint little town in the Himalayas. If you do not find him daydreaming about his travel plans, you’ll find him exploring the vastness of Youtube and Netflix. A travel romantic and a cricket fanatic, he also wishes to try every cuisine ever made in this world.
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