Question

What do you know about Gateway of India?

Answer 1

The Gateway of India is one of India's most unique landmarks situated in the city of Mumbai. The colossal structure was constructed in 1924. Located at the tip of Apollo Bunder, the gateway overlooks the Mumbai harbor, bordered by the Arabian Sea in the Colaba district. The Gateway of India is a monument that marks India's chief ports and is a major tourist attraction for visitors who arrive in India for the first time. At one point of time, this monument represented the grandeur of the British Raj in India. The total construction cost of this monument was approximately 21 lakhs and the whole expense was borne by the Indian government. A favourite spot for tourists, nowadays, this monument attracts vendors, food stalls and photographers. The passing of the 'First Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry' was recorded as the first main event that took place at the Gateway of India. This ceremony was conducted on February 28, 1948, when the last set of British troops and divisions left India, post-independence.

Answer 2

One of the grand and magnificent landmarks of Mumbai, the Gateway of India was built to commemorate the visit of the British Monarch, King George V and Queen Mary. The Gateway of India is one of the hot spots of Mumbai city. The Gateway of India is a massive archway on the Apollo Bunder. For most of the tourists and travelers, the Gateway of India is the starting point to explore the Mumbai city. The Gateway of India was designed by the architect George Wittet. The first stone of the Gateway of India was laid on March 31st 1913. The foundations were completed in 1920 and the Gateway of India was formally opened in 1924 by the then Viceroy, Earl of Reading. 

Built in the Indo-Saracenic style, the Gateway of India is a 26m high structure with four turrets and complicated lattice work engraved into the yellow Kharodi basalt stone. The central dome of the Gateway of India is 48 feet in diameter. It is interesting to note that the whole harbor front was realigned in order to come in line with a planned walkway, sweeping down to the centre of the town. The total cost of construction of the Gateway was approx. Rs. 21 lakhs. The Gateway of India is a major sightseeing hangout in Mumbai. At the back of the Gateway arch, steps lead down to the sea front. From here one can enjoy cruise through Mumbai's fabulous natural harbor. The nearby statues of Shivaji and Swami Vivekananda add charm to the massive structure, the Gateway of India.