The Inauguration of India Gate, New Delhi, 1931 Photo

A striking 1931 photograph of the inauguration of India Gate in New Delhi. The imposing war memorial stood as one of the most prominent features of the newly developed imperial capital. British Indian troops can be seen assembled in ceremonial formation on either side of the monumental arch.

Designed by the renowned British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, India Gate was originally known as the All-India War Memorial. Its construction was commissioned by the British Indian government. To commemorate the Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting in WWI (1914–1918) and the 3rd Anglo-Afghan War of 1919.

The Duke of Connaught laid the foundation stone on 10 February 1921. The Viceroy Lord Irwin dedicated the monument on 12 February 1931. This 42-metre-tall grand sandstone arch was inspired by European triumphal arches.

Situated at the eastern end of the grand ceremonial avenue leading towards the former Viceroy’s House, now Rashtrapati Bhavan. Its walls bear the names of thousands of fallen servicemen.
India Gate became closely associated with India’s Republic Day Parade after independence. The grand parade on 26 January normally marches along Kartavya Path, the avenue that leads towards India Gate. India’s leaders have traditionally paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the war memorial. The ceremony involves laying a wreath. Amar Jawan Jyoti: An eternal flame was set up under the India Gate’s arch in 1972 to honour soldiers who died defending the country.
Did you know – when the foundation stone was laid in February 1921, army units from different parts of India assembled for the occasion.