ENTRANCES OF INDIA’S NEW PARLIAMENT

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The Vice President hoisted the National Flag at Gaja Dwar at India’s new Parliament Building, before its first session.

Key Highlights: 

The Six Statues at the Entrances of New Parliament:

1. Gaja Dwar ( Elephant Gate)

• It represents intellect, memory, wealth and wisdom.
• This gate is on the north side of the building.

2. Ashwa Dwar (Horse Gate)

• It is at the Southern entrance. A horse symbolises power, strength and courage , describing the quality of governance.

3. Garuda ( King of Birds)

• It is believed to be the mount of Lord Vishnu (the preserver in the Hindu trinity). It makes Garuda a symbol of power and dharma (duty).The Garuda gate is the eastern entrance of the new Parliament building.

4. Makara (Mythological Aquatic Creature)

• It is named after the legendary sea creature that is a combination of different animals.
• Makara sculptures are seen in Hindu and Buddhist monuments spread across South and Southeast Asia.
• On one hand, Makara is considered as the combination of different creatures that represents India's unity in diversity. On the other hand, Makara sculptures at doorways are seen as protectors.
• The Makara Dwar faces the entrance to the old Parliament building.

5. Shardula ( Mythological Creature)

• It is a mythological creature who has the body of a lion, the head of a horse, elephant or parrot. It symbolises the power of the people of the country.

6. Hamsa Dwar (Swan Gate)

• It is named after the swan.
• Hamsa is the mount of Saraswati (the Hindu goddess of knowledge).
• It symbolises moksha, or meaning the liberation of the soul from the cycle of birth and death.
• The Hamsa sculpture on the Parliament's gate is a symbol of self-realisation and wisdom.