Vidhan Sabha, Bhopal
Surrounded by stunning lakes, Bhopal – the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, is a metropolis with a distinct character. The city of Bhopal is filled with stunning landscapes and beautiful monuments. Some of the stunning examples of architecture include - Taj-Ul-Masajid, Birla Mandir (Lakshmi Narayan Temple), Sadar Manzil, and Gauhar Mahal. Most of these monuments were built following the traditional Indian and Persian architecture. However, the more modern buildings like the Bhopal Vidhan Sabha or the Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya are some of the recent additions to the cityscape.The given write-up focuses on an important monument of the city – Vidhan Sabha, Bhopal – representative of India being a secular and democratic republic. Built-in the late 20th century, the building is the legislative assembly of Madhya Pradesh and an important landmark of the city.
Let’s check this building, and uncover some of its interesting features.
Quick Glance
Address: Vidhan Bhavan, Bhim Nagar Slums, Arera Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462004
Type of Monument: Legislative Assembly Building
Architectural Style: Mix of Indian and Corinthian architecture
Architect: Charles Correa
Opening Time: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free (but prior permission required)
Visit Duration: Almost one hour
Best Time to Visit: July to March
How to Reach: Buses and private taxis available
Overview of the Vidhan Sabha
Spread in a huge area, the Vidhan Sabha is a massive building. From afar the building might seem like a lump of dough plopped over a hill. The balance of curves and well-defined lines in the architecture of the building makes this place a symbol of class and effervescence.Located near the Arera Hill, the Vidhan Sabha, Bhopal was designed by Secunderabad born architect Charles Correa. According to the architect himself, while designing the monument he wanted to build a monument that had several features inspired by Indian architectures and history. Divided into nine well-defined compartments, the Vidhan Sabha has courtyards, beautifully decorated courtyards, offices and the legislative assembly.
The Architecture of the Vidhan Sabha, Bhopal
The construction of the Vidhan Sabha, or the State Legislative Assembly, took almost a decade to complete. Interestingly, the monument looks the same from the different vantage points. This is due to the circular shape of the building, inspired by the Indian metaphysical and mythological beliefs. According to many, the Vidhan Sabha, Bhopal architecture is inspired by the Navgraha Mandal concept – a Hindu concept where nine squares reside within a large square representing the solar system.Interestingly, each compartment in the State Assembly is dedicated to one of the planetary gods in Hindu mythology. The architecture of the main Assembly Chamber of the Vidhan Sabha is inspired by the Buddhist Stupa of Sanchi.
The complex has three main entrances meant for members of the assembly members and the general public. One of the gateways is adorned with a beautiful pond, or Kund, that amplifies the beauty of the palace.