India Gate in New Delhi has over 13,500 names inscribed. The names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers are inscribed on the memorial. These soldiers died in the wars related to World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War.
A slight modification to the question I will make: the names are not genuinely scribbled. They are painstakingly cut or engraved on stone as a permanent remembrance.
When I first visited India Gate and actually noticed those names, I can't explain the goosebumps I had. We usually see India Gate in photos as a Delhi landmark or picnic spot, but standing there and realizing that every name represents an actual person changes the experience completely. It genuinely amazed me, and I feel more people should know what those inscriptions actually mean.
Number of Names
India Gate fact | Detail |
|---|---|
Names inscribed | Around 13,500+ |
Height | 42 metres |
Architect | Sir Edwin Lutyens |
Foundation stone | 1921 |
Originally known as | All India War Memorial |
Whose Names?
India Gate commemorates about 70,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died while serving during World War I and related campaigns. However, the names of all 70,000 soldiers are not carved onto India Gate.
The monument itself bears the names of around 13,500 identified British and Indian servicemen, including soldiers associated with the North-West Frontier and the Afghan War of 1919.
That distinction matters: 70,000 commemorated does not mean 70,000 names inscribed.
Viral Claim Fact-Check
You've probably seen social-media posts claiming that India Gate contains 70,000 or even 90,000 names.
That's misleading.
70,000 refers broadly to the soldiers the memorial commemorates. The number physically inscribed is around 13,500.
This is exactly why I prefer checking monument information against government or memorial records rather than repeating a viral infographic. One wrong number gets copied so many times that eventually it starts looking factual.
History of India Gate
India Gate was originally called the All India War Memorial.
Its foundation stone was laid in 1921, and the monument was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. It was dedicated roughly a decade later by Viceroy Lord Irwin.
The monument stands 42 metres high and was designed as a memorial arch.
What makes it powerful, though, isn't really its height or architecture. Once you look closely enough to read individual names and ranks carved into the sandstone, it stops feeling like just another famous monument.
FAQs
How many names are written on India Gate?
Around 13,500 names are inscribed on India Gate.
Are 70,000 names written on India Gate?
No. India Gate commemorates around 70,000 soldiers, but only about 13,500 names are physically inscribed.
Who designed India Gate?
Sir Edwin Lutyens designed the monument.
How tall is India Gate?
India Gate is approximately 42 metres high.
Must Read: Is Qutub Minar originally a Hindu monument?