India Gate has long stood as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during the First World War. For decades, a nearby sandstone canopy remained empty—once the site of the statue of King George V, removed after India gained independence. That empty space found its rightful occupant in 2022, when a magnificent statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was installed, symbolizing a bold reclaiming of India’s national identity.
In this article, let us explore the story behind this new landmark in Delhi.
.jpg "Statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose near India Gate in Delhi") |
| Statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose near India Gate in Delhi |
A Historical Location Reimagined
The canopy near India Gate, constructed in 1936 during the British Raj, remained vacant for nearly 55 years after the colonial statue was removed in 1968. This prominent location, directly on the Kartavya Path (formerly known as Rajpath), is surrounded by symbols of India’s national pride: India Gate, the National War Memorial, and views extending towards Rashtrapati Bhavan.
In 2022, as part of the Central Vista redevelopment project, the Indian government announced the decision to install a statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose under the canopy. This gesture was more than a tribute—it was a powerful statement acknowledging Bose’s unparalleled role in India’s independence movement and correcting a long-standing historical gap in national representation.
.jpg "Statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose near India Gate in Delhi") |
| Statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose near India Gate in Delhi |
About the Statue
The statue of Netaji is an imposing and awe-inspiring creation:
-
Material: The statue is carved from a single monolithic block of black granite weighing over 280 tonnes.
-
Height: The final statue stands 28 feet tall, making it one of the tallest statues in Delhi.
-
Sculptor: Arun Yogiraj, a noted sculptor from Mysuru, was commissioned to design and carve the statue. He is known for his works rooted in Indian heritage and tradition.
Iconography and Features
Netaji is shown in a standing posture, dressed in the iconic Azad Hind Fauj (INA) uniform, his right arm raised in a salute. His strong facial expression and upright stance reflect his indomitable spirit, courage, and unwavering commitment to India’s freedom.
The sculptor has paid meticulous attention to detail—the folds of the uniform, the INA cap, the belt buckle, and even the boots are carved with precision.
The statue rests on a high granite pedestal, ensuring it dominates the visual frame of the surrounding area while harmonizing with the architecture of the canopy.
.jpg "Statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose near India Gate in Delhi") |
| Statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose near India Gate in Delhi |
Significance of the Installation
Placing Netaji’s statue in such a central and historically charged location carries deep symbolic weight:
-
It restores historical balance, by replacing a colonial monarch’s statue with that of a fierce Indian patriot who fought to liberate the country.
-
It acknowledges Netaji’s leadership of the Indian National Army and his vision of complete and uncompromising independence.
-
It marks a shift in how independent India curates its public memory—moving from symbols of colonial submission to heroes of national pride.
Additionally, the surrounding area has undergone significant beautification, with clean walkways, decorative lighting, signage, and curated lawns—making it an inviting spot for visitors and heritage enthusiasts.
The statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose near India Gate is not just a monument—it is a powerful message cast in granite. It represents a new India that reveres its real heroes and places them at the very centre of national consciousness. For heritage lovers, history enthusiasts, and every Indian who values freedom, this site is a must-visit.
Happy travelling.