Open Hand Monument



Open Hand Monument, Chandigarh, Punjab

Information on Open Hand Monument, Chandigarh, Punjab


The open hand monument is a particular structure that is located in Chandigarh India. The Hand Monument is mistakenly seen by people as just a logo or symbol positioned in the place. It actually depicts the importance of national integrity in French style.

Open Hand Monument Architecture

Architecturally, the monument is one of the most unique structures in India. It was built following a French architectural style under the guidance of the famous architect Le Corbusier. Though the monument is just a hand like structure with not much designing, it still depicts a masterpiece of the developer especially for the concept it presents. The structure is mainly built with metal sheets along with steel which provides it with utmost strength. It was recorded that the monument was built with the use of 50 tons of metal. Le Corbusier designed the structure with the intention to give an open hand emblem to the city of Chandigarh while he was designing the entire city. It is also crucial to mention that the monument was made with a height of 26 meters above the ground. The place has a garden in front of it which controls the weather balance of the place and provide a soothing atmosphere for the people. At night when the monument get the influence of light, it depicts a golden tint while in the daylight it provides a black texture. In front of the monument there artificial horses which enhance the beauty of the place to the next level. There is an open ground in front where people can sit and relax and discuss important matters about the society.

Open Hand Monument History

The open hand monument has a rich historical significance associated with it. The establishment of the monument has quite an important purpose owing to which it is considered as a major structure in Chandigarh over the years. The designer of the monument was intended to establish a place where people can come together and talks about different issues and problems in an around the city. The monument which is located specifically in sector 1 Capitol complex, it is believed to be built after India got independence i.e. 1947. The foundation of the monument was a matter of extreme debate in the political domain of the country. This is because of the fact that the monument placed for collective decision making by the citizens of the city of Chandigarh against the societal and the political issues for the overall betterment. The monument includes a hand like structure which tends to rotate such as weather cock. It movement is directly dependent on the flow of weather. It seeks to ensure peace and unity within the society with further depicting a social message from its presence.

Open Hand Monument Tourism Importance

With regard to tourism the monument has its own significance as people all parts of the society in Chandigarh takes it as a meeting place where they can provide their opinion about the present problems of the society. Notably, the entry in the monument is free of cost for the visitors and anyone who intends to associate with the social problems are allowed to enter the place. Again since the monument is located within the capitol complex of Chandigarh, there are other attractions for the visitors as well including the high court, the secretariat and the legislative assembly among others. All these factors will certainly attract bulk tourism for the place.