Raj Ghat in Delhi is a peaceful and beautiful memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, who is known as the "father of the nation." Gandhiji was a simple but strong leader, and his shrine is also simple in its construction and appearance.
Views of one of the best places to visit in Delhi, this ghat faces River Yamuna and is the place where Gandhi was cremated after his assassination. Besides, the Ghat area also has samadhis for other major Indian leaders.
Why is Raj Ghat famous?
Raj Ghat is famous as the resting place of Mahatma Gandhi and, therefore, is a sign of peace and has proved to be a memorial token to his life and work. People from all parts of the world visit this memorial only to pay homage to their beloved Father of the Nation. The simplicity and serenity depict, in themselves, a reflection of the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi regarding non-violence and simplicity.
Is Raj Ghat worth visiting?
Yes, it would help if you visited Raj Ghat. It offers a serene environment from where the life and works of Gandhi could be learnt. The memorial was placed in a peaceful yard so that people could think and pray peacefully. It's part of Delhi's culture and historical history. Raj Ghat has to feature in any Delhi tour plan for those who have a fascination for Indian history and politics.
What is the story of Raj Ghat?
Assassins killed Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, better known as Mahatma Gandhi, on January 30, 1948. The following day, they burned his body at a site near the Yamuna River. They placed Gandhiji in the fire and held his last rites at the exact spot marked by the Ghat. In line with Gandhi's ideas and his simple way of living, they built a simple memorial here.
When it was first built, Ghat Gate was the name of an old gate in Shahjahan Abad, the walled city of Delhi. It began at a place called Raj Ghat on the west shore of the Yamuna River. The place where the Gandhi memorial was built became known as Raj Ghat over time.
Over the years, they have built the samadhis of many critical Indian leaders, such as past Presidents and Prime Ministers, in the Ghat area. They built the samadhi of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Rashtriya Smriti Sthal, in 2018, making it the newest addition to the Ghat area.
Who constructed Rajghat?
The Government of India constructed the Ghat. The memorial was also designed and only symbolic as a tribute to Gandhi. For example, the design has a black marble platform with an eternal flame that reflects the simplicity of Gandhi's life. Finally, the site is maintained by the Ministry of Culture to ensure it fits Gandhi's memory.