Raj Ghat, Delhi

Raj Ghat, situated in Delhi, stands as a solemn memorial dedicated to the revered Mahatma Gandhi. Initially, the name "Raj Ghat" referred to a historical ghat in Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad). Adjacent to this location, towards the east of Daryaganj, was the Raj Ghat Gate of the walled city, which opened to the western bank of the Yamuna River. Over time, the entire area, including the historic ghat and the gate, came to be known as Raj Ghat.

The memorial itself is a striking black marble platform, serving as the hallowed site of Mahatma Gandhi's cremation and Antyeshti (last rites) on 31 January 1948, just a day after his assassination. This open-air platform allows the sky to serve as its canopy, while an eternal flame perpetually burns at one end, symbolizing the undying spirit of Gandhi's ideals.

To reach the memorial, visitors walk along a stone footpath flanked by serene lawns, located on Delhi's Ring Road, officially known as Mahatma Gandhi Road. The memorial is enclosed by a wall, enclosing the sacred space that honors the memory of this great leader.

While Raj Ghat stands as a testament to the historical significance of Gandhian architecture in India, there is a distinct difference between its design and the architecture of Gandhian low-cost housing. Raj Ghat's use of hard materials in certain aspects contrasts with the deliberately perishable character of Gandhian low-cost housing architecture.

The Raj Ghat vicinity boasts a beautiful park embellished with trees that were planted by esteemed dignitaries and heads of state during their visits.