Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden and national memorial in the city of Amritsar, in the state of India. It marks the site where troops opened fire on a large crowd gathered on 13 April 1919. The event, commonly called the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, took place during the festival of Baisakhi and has become a central episode in modern Indian history. The garden is preserved as a place of remembrance and education, with features that recall the events of that day and their aftermath.

Historical background

The shooting occurred in a climate of rising political tension following wartime restrictions and repressive legislation introduced by the colonial government. Assembled in the garden were many civilians — men, women and children — who had come to listen to speeches, protest arrests and mark the festival. Contemporary descriptions emphasise that the gathering was largely unarmed and peaceful.

The incident and inquiries

On the afternoon of 13 April 1919, a detachment of British Indian Army troops under the command of a senior officer entered the enclosed garden and fired into the crowd. The narrow entrances and high walls restricted escape, and many victims were wounded or killed. Casualty figures remain debated: British officials and later inquiries reported hundreds of deaths and many more wounded, while other contemporary and later accounts produced higher estimates. The event prompted official investigations, including the Hunter Commission, and generated widespread domestic and international criticism.

Memorial, layout and administration

The site preserves several elements associated with the event: a narrow, preserved entrance, sections of wall, and the well where some victims are reported to have fallen. A central memorial complex includes plaques, a flame or urn and exhibition space that displays documents and photographs explaining the context and consequences of 1919. The site is administered by the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust, established under an act of parliament in 1951; further information on administration and official records is available through the trust and related publications via Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial.

Legacy and visiting

The massacre had a profound impact on public opinion in India and abroad. It intensified criticism of colonial policies and contributed to growing support for the movement for Indian independence. Jallianwala Bagh has since become a symbol of civilian suffering and a focal point for annual commemorations on 13 April. The memorial is located close to other central landmarks of Amritsar and is visited by residents, scholars and tourists. Visitors are asked to observe the solemn nature of the place and to consult the interpretive panels and curated displays for historical context.

  • Location: Central Amritsar, a short distance from major religious and civic sites.
  • Primary event date: 13 April 1919 (Baisakhi).
  • Administration: Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Trust (established 1951).