National War Memorial — Attraction in New Delhi

Drawing inspiration from the ‘Chakravyuh’ formation, the iconic National War Memorial boasts of four thematic concentric circles with a tall ceremonial obelisk at its centre that bears the eternal flame. The central part of the sprawling complex has been built in a sunken plot as the design had to respect the heritage look of the India Gate’s Central Vista. The names of 25,942 battle casualties have been inscribed across 16 walls that consist of granite pieces bearing the name, rank, and regiment of the fallen heroes.

The layout of the memorial located behind the India Gate canopy and across the National Stadium consists of four concentric circles, radially outwards. The central obelisk is topped with an Ashokan Capital and the base bears the famous couplet ‘“शहीदों की चिताओं पर लगेंगे हर बरस मेले,वतन पर मर मिटने वालों का यही बाकी निशां होगा।” by poet Jagdamba Prasad Mishra ‘Hitaishi’. The Ashokan Capital topping the 15.5-m obelisk, was made by noted sculptor Ram Sutar.

Drawing inspiration from the ‘Chakravyuh’ formation, the iconic National War Memorial boasts of four thematic concentric circles with a tall ceremonial obelisk at its centre that bears the eternal flame. These four circles are the Amar Chakra, Veerta Chakra, Tyag Chakra and Rakshak Chakra.

Amar Chakra (Circle of Immortality): This structure of the memorial derives its name from the Eternal Flame (Amar Jawan Jyoti), continuously burning under the main obelisk at the centre of the monument. The flame symbolises the immortality of the spirit of fallen soldiers and the promise that the Nation will never forget their sacrifices.

Veerta Chakra (Circle of Bravery): The second circle depicts the Bravery of Indian forces in the form of a covered gallery that exhibits six bronze murals, made by noted sculptor Ram Sutar, depicting famous battles fought by the Army, Air Force and Navy. The battles showcased here are Battle of Gangasagar, Longewala, Tithwal, Rizangla, Operation Meghdoot and Operation Trident.

Tyag Chakra (Circle of Sacrifice): The circular concentric walls of honour symbolise the ancient war formation 'Chakravyuh'. The walls are clad with granite tablets where an independent granite tablet is dedicated to each soldier who has made the supreme sacrifice in the battlefield, where his name is etched in golden letters along with the details of Rank. 16 walls in concentric fashion have been constructed in the ‘Tyag Chakra’ area for paying homage to 25,942 battle casualties.

Walls 1A and IB, 2A and 2B, 3A and 3B have granite tablets with names of brave hearts who lost their lives in Indo Pk War (1947-48) and Indo Pak War (1965)

Walls 4A and 4B have granite tablets with names of brave hearts who lost their lives in Indo China War (1962), Indo Pk War (1947-48), Indo Pak War (1965) and Indo Pak War (1971)

Walls 5A and 5B have granite tablets with names of brave hearts who lost their lives in Indo China War (1962), Indo Pak War (1965) and Indo Pak War (1971)

Walls 6A and 6B, 7A and 7A and 7B, 8A and 8B have granite tablets with names of brave hearts who lost their lives in - Indo China War (1962) and Indo Pak War (1965)

Rakshak Chakra (Circle of Protection): The outermost circle made of rows of trees in the Rakshak Chakra is a reassurance to the citizens of the country about their safety against any threat, with each tree representing the soldiers who ensure the territorial integrity of the Nation, round the clock. It comprises rows of more than 600 dense trees with each tree representing many soldiers who guard the territorial integrity of the nation round the clock. It also commemorates the soldiers who participated and made supreme sacrifice in the UN Peace Keeping Missions, during Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Operations, counter-insurgency operations and Low Intensity Capital...

Nation’s Pride

While the much older and more well-known India Gate commemorates the martyred Indian soldier of the First World War, the very recently created National War Memorial, just behind India Gate’s canopy, is in memory of the soldiers fallen in battle ever since India’s independence in 1947.

The National War Memorial is designed in a circular form, with steps (and ramps) leading down into a large amphitheatre-like circular space, in the centre of which stands an obelisk. At the base of this burns the Amar Jawan Jyoti, the eternal flame burning in memory of the Unknown Soldier. A sentry is always on duty beside this. Along one arc of the circle surrounding the obelisk, the area is roofed, with the walls decorated with bronze murals depicting battle scenes form important battles fought (and won) by Indian forces: Operation Trident, the Battle of Longewala, the Battle of Rezang La, and so on. There are about half a dozen of these, and in the centre are the emblems of the Navy, Airforce, Army and Combined Defence Services.

Once you come up from the Amar Jawan Jyoti and its surrounding circle, you can move around, at ground level, in the circles surrounding this (this circle is supposed to be modelled on the mythical ‘Chakravyuh’ of the Mahabharat). This circle consists of thousands of small brick-coloured granite slabs, each etched with the number, name and regiment of an Indian soldier killed in one of the wars. They’re arranged in order of war, and—if you’re here to find the slab of a dear one, there’s a digital assistant too, a touch screen where you can enter the soldier’s ID, name, and regiment in order to find out the location of his slab at the memorial. I didn’t try this, so can’t tell if it works.

Beyond these are gardens, mostly trees (many of them still young), some flowerbeds, and water channels. On the southern side is a small gallery with engraved-metal maps and descriptions of major battlefields in which Indian armed forces have proven their mettle. Right opposite, across the memorial and at the exit gate, is a similar one with more of the same information. Both galleries have toilets attached to them.

I liked the concept of the War Memorial, and since we visited in spring (and there were a lot of flowers around), it looked really pretty. However, I thought that while the design and the layout is good, the artwork of the murals left much to be desired. These were poorly done, with figures all disproportionate and rather tacky. Something of this scale deserved more accomplished artists.

Still, not a bad place to visit if you’re in the area. No entry...

The National War Memorial in New Delhi is a profound tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of India's armed forces. Located near India Gate, this memorial is a significant addition to the city's landscape, dedicated to honoring the soldiers who have laid down their lives in various conflicts since India's independence.

Inaugurated in 2019, the National War Memorial features an impressive and thoughtfully designed layout. At the heart of the memorial is the central obelisk, which stands tall and dignified, surrounded by four concentric circles: the Amar Chakra (Circle of Immortality), the Veerta Chakra (Circle of Bravery), the Tyag Chakra (Circle of Sacrifice), and the Rakshak Chakra (Circle of Protection). Each circle represents different aspects of the sacrifices made by the armed forces and is inscribed with the names of over 25,000 martyrs.

The Amar Jawan Jyoti, an eternal flame, burns at the base of the obelisk, symbolizing the immortal spirit of the fallen soldiers. The names of the soldiers are etched on granite tablets, providing a tangible connection to their valor and dedication.

The design of the memorial is both modern and respectful, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The pathways and gardens are meticulously maintained, offering a serene environment for visitors to reflect and pay their respects. The lush greenery and open spaces around the memorial enhance its peaceful ambiance, making it a fitting place for contemplation and remembrance.

The National War Memorial is also equipped with an informative gallery that provides insights into the history and achievements of the Indian Armed Forces. Through interactive displays and exhibits, visitors can learn about the various operations and missions that have defined India's military history.

Accessibility to the memorial is straightforward, given its central location near India Gate. It is easily reachable by public transportation, with the nearest metro station being Central Secretariat. The memorial is open to the public from morning until evening, allowing ample time for visitors to explore and absorb the solemn atmosphere.

In summary, the National War Memorial stands as a powerful homage to the courage and sacrifice of India's soldiers. Its thoughtful design, serene surroundings, and educational exhibits make it an essential visit for anyone in New Delhi. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a patriot, or someone seeking a place of quiet reflection, the National War Memorial offers a moving and...