Rajghat Memorial In Delhi
A trip to Delhi is incomplete without a visit to Rajghat, the Gandhi Memorial. It is the final resting place of Mahatma Gandhi. Rajghat was built in the memory of M K Gandhi whose contribution to the national freedom struggle of India was legendary.
Better known as the father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, gave the brilliant idea of non-violence to the world. He chose the path of non-violence and non-cooperation to get freedom for India and drive away the British rule from India. Gandhi was a learned barrister who had stayed for a number of years in South Africa before arriving back in his own country to start the freedom struggle.
M K Gandhi was given the title of mahatma after he was shot dead by Nathuram Godse on January 31st 1948. His last words while fighting for the last breath of his life were "Hey Ram". The same words are inscribed on the memorial built in his memory at Rajghat.
The literal meaning of Rajghat is King's Court. The name suggests the greatness and kindness of M K Gandhi and his sacrifice for nation's freedom struggle. Indian freedom history is replete with examples of great freedom fighters but the role and personality of Gandhi is unique and thus, this kingly and saintly stature had been given to him.
Rajghat is situated right on the banks of River Yamuna. The place has an aura that reminds you of the peace and love that Gandhiji always used to preach to his disciples. Among the lush green lawns, right at the heart of the city Rajghat, the shrine of Gandhi is situated. It is a simple square structure of black marble that sparkles day and night. The structure is always decorated with flowers and an eternal flame burns on one side of the flame day and night.
Apart from the general tourists, foreign dignitaries and ambassadors, the representative of other nations visit the memorial to pay homage to Gandhi who is regarded a great soul all over the world. To pay reverence to the holy soul of Gandhi, public is requested to take out their shoes a little away from the memorial. Offering flowers on the memorial is also a tradition at Rajghat.
If you visit Rajghat on Gandhi's birth or death anniversary, you will be able to attend a prayer meeting being held at the memorial. The death memorial of many other dignitaries of India like Rajendra Prasad, Indira Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri are also situated nearby.
The Gandhi memorial or Rajghat is a complex where you can sit in solace and think about better things in life. It's perfect for drawing inspiration to do something meaningful for your nation in society.
Mahatma Gandhi Memorial, Rajghat, in Delhi is close to another famous monument that is India Gate. So, when you visit India Gate, you can choose to see Gandhi Memorial too. The premises of Rajghat also host museums in remembrance of Gandhiji, his life and teachings