India Gate, the monument dedicated to the valor of the great Indian Army is a pride of India, located in the heart of New Delhi. On our way back home from a recent trip, me and my wife got a morning in New Delhi. Our train back to Kolkata was scheduled in the afternoon. So, we thought of putting the free time into best use. We thought of visiting the India Gate.
We were staying in a hotel in Faiz Road, Karolbagh. We asked at the reception which was the nearest Metro station. It was Jhandewala, at a walking distance. On our way to the station, we also passed by the famous Hanuman Temple. The giant statue of Lord Hanuman awed us. The Delhi Metro was a big wow. It’s so great, so stylish, and so comfortable. Well, daily passengers of Delhi might have a difference of opinion, but for a first timer like me, it was really a remarkable experience. I have travelled in the Kolkata Metro from my childhood, but I must admit that the Delhi Metro at the moment is much better in service and technology. We learnt that the Metro station closest to India Gate was Central Secretariat or Kendriya Sachivalaya. We have to go to Rajiv Chowk station first, change to another line, and catch another train to our destination. The policemen and the Metro officials were very helpful and we reached Central Secretariat hassle free. It was a cold but sunny morning. The sunrays caressed us and the fresh breeze welcomed us to the heart of the national capital. We took photos of the Central Secretariat and the Raj Bhavan building. Then we started walking towards the India Gate, which was hazily visible at the horizon. It was hazy due to the fog.
It was about a kilometer or a couple along Rajpath. But since it was morning time, we enjoyed the walk. We noticed many armed policemen on the green patch on both sides of the road. Some people were setting up seats there. I told my wife, “Hey, this is the road where the Republic Day parade is held!” She replied, “Yes, they are setting up the audience gallery as 26th January is approaching.” We also noticed how similar the road looks to the Red Road at Kolkata. We came to a crossing and I noticed the road sign says Janpath Road. I exclaimed, “This is where Sonia Gandhi ji stays!” My wife looked around and asked, “Where is building number 10?” We looked around a little but did not understand which way it was. Anyway, we marched towards the next crossing of Mansingh Road. India Gate was fairly visible now, soaking in the sun, and as if drawing us towards it like a giant magnet.
We were there, at the foothill of India Gate, at last. It was a lovely sight. The magnificent monument at the backdrop of the azure blue sky filled our heart with glee. We took pictures, lot of pictures. There were a lot of crowd already there, gathered to experience the spectacular sight. We went to the backside of the India Gate. Wahaan to mela laga hua tha! It was almost a carnival! Chat wallahs, Paanipuri wallahs, Balloon wallahs and a gamut of tourists made the atmosphere electric. The flames of Amar Jawan Jyoti burned bright and made the atmosphere serene. We looked up and saw the dedication to the Indian Army inscribed on the walls of the gate.
We spent a few more minutes in the vicinity. It was hard to put our eyes off India Gate. The time to depart seemed to approach really soon. I thought of capturing a few more final shots. As I got ready with the camera lens and looked at the India Gate, I don’t know why my eyes moistened. I realized I have been smitten by the spirit of nationalism. From the core of my heart I poured out a salute to the great monument, and our great nation. Jai Hind! I will be back!
