Information on Raj Ghat (New Delhi) - History & Architecture

Raj Ghat is situated in Old Delhi on the river banks of Yamuna. The Raj Ghat basically is a monument which was built in the honour of the father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi. The Raj Ghat is a raised platform made of black marble which has been erected on the spot where the cremation of Mahatma Gandhi took place on 31st January in the year 1948, just a day following his assassination. The platform is intentionally left open and faces the sky and an everlasting flame keeps burning continually on one end of the platform. The Raj Ghat is located on Delhi's Ring Road which is formally known by the name of Mahatma Gandhi Road. The word Raj Ghat means 'King's Court'.

Raj Ghat Architecture

The black stone platform raised in the memory of Mahatma Gandhi has "Hey Ram" emblazoned on it which was believed to be the last words said by him. A footpath made of stone and bordered with lawns show the way towards the enclosed space which accommodates the memorial. There are two different museums which are completely devoted to Mahatma Gandhi and are situated close to the Raj Ghat. Numerous other cremation places of various other renowned personalities such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and more others can be located within the surrounding area of the Raj Ghat. The task related to plantation of trees and landscape of the present memorials was carried out by Alick Percy-Lancaster, who was learnt to be the final Englishman to work with the Government of India as a Superintendent of Horticulture Operations.

The design of the platform which was erected on the cremation spot of Mahatma Gandhi is quite simple along with being bordered by beautifully maintained manicured gardens that cover a considerable area of land. The blueprint of Raj Ghat was made by an architect, Vanu G. Bhuta in a manner so as to reflect and focus on the simple way of life followed by Mahatma Gandhi. It was this simple design which came first in the India Invitational Competition which was conducted by the Indian Government. The design of the black marbled raised platform encircled by mother earth exudes an unsaid message of simple living which majorly impresses the visitors. However, the memorial went through several alterations in terms of its design but, the aspect of simplicity and uniqueness remained unchanged. The mentioned alterations were made in the form of certain additions which were requested by Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Indian Prime Minister Post Independence.

Raj Ghat History

Mahatma Gandhi is revered as a one of the greatest freedom fighters and leaders of India who believed in the philosophy of non-violence as well as simple ways such as rigorous fasting. These philosophies differed from the ones followed by other freedom fighters. Mahatma Gandhi with his righteous path as well as non-violence movements freed India from the shackles of British rule. Mahatma Gandhi died on a Friday and therefore, a prayer session is conducted at Raj Ghat on all the Fridays. Apart from the prayer session, the philosophies and principles of Mahatma Gandhi are highlighted at Raj Ghat through sculptures and pictures every day except Mondays at Raj Ghat in between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Raj Ghat Tourism Significance

Paying a visit to Raj Ghat has somewhat become quite usual by the common people, foreign dignitaries and well-known personalities. The quest of comprehending the values of such a honored personality and righteous soul like Mahatma Gandhi attract people to Raj Ghat from far and wide. So, while you are here, take pride and honour to pay homage to the great soul who once walked on this planet and more of all sacrificed his life for the welfare of India.