The Austere Beauty Of Raj Ghat

The memorial to The Mahatma, the father of the nation, is situated in the serene environs of Raj Ghat. The open-to-sky black granite platform marks the site of his cremation on 31st January 1948. Initially, it was just a plain ghat, or bank of the river Yamuna, in old Delhi or Shahjahanabad, and one of the gates of the walled city of Red Fort opened onto this ghat. 

Sacred Design

Inscribed with the last words of Gandhiji, "Hey Ram", the black granite platform also houses the eternal flame. Raj Ghat was designed by the America-trained architect Vanu G Bhuta, who recreated the pattern of the sacred mandala for the memorial. You will note that the samadhi (memorial) is set in the centre of a sunken square courtyard. It can be approached by four ramps stretching into each cardinal direction. The whole design is also reminiscent of the ancient architectural style of India. 

The One For All

The simplicity of the entire memorial space reflects the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi. Accordingly, a khadi spinning programme and a sarva dharma prarthana (all-faith prayer meet) are held here every Friday, as well as on Gandhiji's birth anniversary, 2nd October, and martyrdom day, 30th January. 

Peace And Poise

Just south of Raj Ghat is the Gandhi Darshan, a pavilion displaying photographs showcasing the life of Gandhiji. To the north of Raj Ghat are the memorials for India's first prime minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and two other former prime ministers of India, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi.  

Raj Ghat is a place of reflection and reserve. While its beauty may encourage you to think of it as a spot for light entertainment, we suggest you refrain from creating undue activity of any kind or bringing in eatables. 

The Information

Timing: April to September: 5:00 am to 7:30 pm. October to March: 5:30 am to 7:00 pm. Raj Ghat is always all through the year. 

Entry fee: No. 

Mandatory: Removal of shoes before entering the premises. 

For more information, check the website. 

RELATED: 5 Museums Dedicated To Mahatma Gandhi. 

ALSO READ: Ponduru Khadi: Mahatma Gandhi's Soft Spot.