The Gateway of India in Mumbai is one of India’s most iconic and historically significant monuments, often referred to as the Taj Mahal of Mumbai. It stands majestically on the waterfront at Apollo Bunder, overlooking the Arabian Sea, serving as a powerful symbol of the city.

Here is a detailed overview of the monument, its history, architecture, and current status:

History and Significance

The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the 1911 visit of King George V and Queen Mary, the first British monarch to visit India.

• Completion: While the foundation stone was laid in 1913, the grand arch was completed in 1924. The royal couple, ironically, only saw a cardboard model upon their arrival in 1911, as construction had not yet begun.

• A Symbol of Transition: The monument served as the symbolic ceremonial entrance to India during the British Raj. However, its most poignant historical moment occurred after India gained independence. On February 28, 1948, the last contingent of British troops to leave India—the First Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry—marched through the Gateway in a symbolic ceremony, signaling the definitive end of British rule.