The design of “Namah” is inspired by the ancient culture of India, where people greet others by bowing down as a humble salutation. In Sanskrit, the literal meaning of “Namah” is “not mine”. It is an expression of humility and a means of surrendering to a higher self.
The structure of “Namah” mainly consists of two wings, standing tall at 120 metres on its circular base and narrowing down towards “India Gate” and “Rajpath”, making its axis prominently aligned with them. The smaller of the two wings is constructed using a diagrid structure of steel frames and modular concrete blocks, making it appear fragmented and depicting the marks of the nation’s heroic history, while the other wing is made of reinforced concrete, standing taller than the other, leading towards the sky, indicating the strong growth and broadening horizons of the nation. These two wings, together, transmit an impression of a formal greeting—”Namaste” as a welcoming gesture.
At the base of the structure, “Amar Jyot” is located in a way that aligns with “Amar Jawan Jyoti” at India gate. The outer circle has been designed as a “Peace Memorial” with solid stretcher of granite stone carved in cuboid shapes and placed in a grid format with the names of martyrs engraved on them, forming a subtle landscape that pays tribute to the martyrs. Between the wings and the peace memorial is an undulated path-way that serves as a horizontal circulation and connector between these two spaces.
The outermost path on the eastern side of the wings is elevated in a way that evokes an impression of entry for those approaching from the Yamuna River ghat. This same pathway has been pushed into the ground on the west side of the wings, allowing room for the exhibition space beneath, while leaving the access to the India Gate undisturbed.
This structure represents everything India aspires to, a vision, a symbol, a new beginning. The structure carries a precious history and unfolds new opportunities for the nation, conveying a message to the world that everyone is welcome here warmheartedly