Bharat Mandapam, a state-of-the-art convention center at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, exemplifies India’s evolving architectural landscape. It seamlessly blends advanced materials and technology, symbolizing contemporary Indian architecture. Its stunning exterior design serves as a torchbearer of modernity, skillfully intertwining the past’s rich heritage with the present’s aspirations.
The renowned Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, redesigned by Arcop Associates in collaboration with Aedas, is a real monument that serves as a prideful symbol of India. By incorporating art into architecture, it strengthens the nation’s rich cultural heritage.
Significance of Pragati Maidan
The city’s largest exhibition ground, spanning 123 acres, is a testament to India’s progress and ambition. Built by the Indian government in 1972 to commemorate 25 years of independence, the complex symbolized progress and self-reliance in post-independent India. Raj Rewal’s ‘Hall of Nations’ stood out prominently among its many notable structures, having been inaugurated by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
The city’s largest exhibition ground, spanning 123 acres, is a testament to India’s progress and ambition. Built by the Indian government in 1972 to commemorate 25 years of independence, the complex symbolized progress and self-reliance in post-independent India. Raj Rewal’s ‘Hall of Nations’ stood out prominently among its many notable structures, having been inaugurated by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Legacy of the Hall of Nations
Designed by Raj Rewal and Mahendra Raj, the Hall of Nations was a true embodiment of architectural innovation. It featured a concrete space frame, making it one of the first large-span cast-in-situ concrete space frames in the world. This impressive structure, with its 78-meter clear span, served as the venue for the 1972 International Trade Fair, symbolizing audacity and vision.
Bharat Mandapam design drew inspiration from Mughal architecture, incorporating elements like a free-standing coffered mezzanine floor and a pile foundation with post-tensioned beams. Despite its iconic status, the Hall of Nations was demolished in 2017 to pave the way for the Integrated Exhibition-Convention Centre (IECC), a new vision by the India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO).
Rise of Bharat Mandapam
Six years after the Hall of Nations’ demolition, Bharat Mandapam now graces Pragati Maidan, bringing a fresh wave of modernity and cultural homage. Designed by ARCOP, this new convention center beautifully reflects India’s diverse heritage with a capacity to host 13,500 attendees. Crafted with a budget of ₹2700 crore, its interiors celebrate India’s rich cultural tapestry, featuring red stone, rural artwork, traditional carpets, and teak wooden furnishings.
Symbolic elements such as the ‘Yoga Mudra’ wall panel and the ‘Ashwamedh’ sculpture add depth to the narrative of Indian heritage. The ‘Window to Delhi’ offers breathtaking panoramic views of iconic landmarks, seamlessly blending the past with the present.
The magnificent Bharat Mandapam has two distinguishing features that set it apart from other buildings throughout the world. The first concerns infrastructure. “This skyscraper exemplifies how a project should benefit a city rather than deplete it.
A six-lane tunnel beneath the conference center links Mathura Road to the Ring Road. Overall, developments strain a city and its buildings. However, the Pragati Maidan ITPO project has effectively shifted this narrative and demonstrated how a project should be constructed in a way that benefits the city rather than burdening its infrastructure,” says Sanjay. The second distinguishing feature is the architects’ endeavor to incorporate our civilization into the project through design.
Reflecting on the Future
As Bharat Mandapam prepares to host significant events like the G-20 summit, both the architectural community and the public reflect on its profound impact. While it stands as a modern marvel, the legacy of the Hall of Nations continues to loom large, reminding us of the rich architectural heritage that preceded it.
