I was part of this bloggers’ group and I along with a few others were led by guards and Army officials who took us on a leisurely tour of the National War Memorial. Despite being a weekday, I was surprised to see so many people including tourists from around the country. A couple of foreigners in groups were seen with their guides explaining about the memorial enthusiastically. Inaugurated on 25th February 2019, this memorial evokes a strong sense of patriotism. There was something in the air that made us all aware of every drop of blood that was shed for the country. It was humbling to walk in and look at the names of soldiers whose names are inscribed on bricks. While exploring, we were told that the National War Memorial had been built on the concept of Chakravyuh, a traditional Indian warfare tactic, and depicts the four aspects of war. Concentric circles, each depicting sentiment, spiral in the form of a military formation with the Rakshak Chakra or the Circle Of Protection symbolized by a row of trees standing like every soldier standing their ground to protect the country. This was followed by the Tyag Chakra or the Circle of Sacrifice, where the names of soldiers glisten in gold carved in brick-like structures. All the sections nicely form a circle which one by one takes us to the inner part of the memorial. The design of the National War Memorial is very thoughtfully curated as one section seamlessly leads to the next. Since photography was allowed here, we took plenty of photographs and videos. The crimson setting sun made for great images.
We then come down to the Veerta Chakra or the Circle Of Bravery where six bronze murals showcase the combats that protected India’s freedom and sovereignty. These scenes are from important wars like - Battle of Longewala, Battle of Gangasagar, Battle of Rezangla and more. With elaborate descriptions of the wars, these murals are a reflection of the great sacrifices made by our forces to keep the country safe and stand with pride. We along with a large number of people were glued with rapt attention. Finally, we came down to the Amar Chakra or the Circle of Immortality which holds an Obelisk or Stambh where the Eternal Flame burns forever to show a nation’s gratitude to the heroes who have defended the sovereignty of the nation.
The evening closed with the solemn Retreat Ceremony. The Retreat Ceremony is held every evening before sunset. The Change of Guard Ceremony and band display begins with a bugle call and lowering of the flags, done to symbolize the end of the day. A wreath is laid at the Amar Chakra by the next of kin each day at sundown, keeping alive the spirit of nationalism in every soul that visits the National War Memorial. As the crowd receded, the flame continued to burn bright, symbolizing India’s pride.
Delhi
It was a winter evening in Delhi, and the India Tourism (North) office had organized a bloggers' day-out at the newly opened National War Memorial. Despite staying in Delhi and crossing India Gate multiple times, somehow I like many Delhi’ites had given it a miss. Just a few steps away from the Amar Jawan Jyoti and the newly installed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose statue is the multi-layered National War Memorial. Spread over 40 acres of open land stands the stoic National War Memorial, an awe-inspiring tribute to all the soldiers who fearlessly fought for India post-independence. While the Amar Jawan Jyoti Memorial has names of soldiers who laid down their lives during India’s war for Independence, the National War Memorial has names of post-Independence martyrs.