Question: What if I told you that the ground beneath your feet here at East Pavilion holds a story of grand visions, fierce debates, and ultimately, a painful loss? The East Pavilion isn’t just a structure. It is a place echoing with India’s architectural and political history.
Allow me to introduce you to the story of Pragati Maidan and the East Pavilion. This area was inaugurated in 1972 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It commemorated 25 years of India’s independence. At the heart of Pragati Maidan stood the Hall of Nations and the Nehru Pavilion. These structures embodied the optimism of post-independence India. Raj Rewal designed them.
The Hall of Nations was a marvel. It was the world’s first and largest-span space frame built in concrete. Steel was too expensive in India then. Over 300 families lived on-site to build the complex in less than two years. The structure served as a 3D brise soleil. It screened the sun and cooled the building naturally. Rewal proudly stated that it was designed as a sunbreaker. Air circulated freely without needing air conditioning.
Just west of the Hall of Nations was the Nehru Pavilion. This underground gallery commemorated India’s first prime minister. It featured a raised mound inspired by Buddhist stupas. The exhibition inside was designed by Charles and Ray Eames. It showcased Nehru’s life. It included portraits and a reconstruction of his prison cell. Large photographs of Modernist structures associated with him were also on display.
Nehru’s vision of a secular, modern India stood in contrast to rising Hindu nationalism. In 2015, a proposal to redevelop Pragati Maidan surfaced. Architects and organizations worldwide pleaded to save these buildings. They argued it was an integral part of India’s modernist heritage. The Indian Institute of Architects fought in court.
However, in April 2017, the complex was demolished overnight. This happened despite ongoing legal actions. The government justified this as necessary for a world-class exhibition space. This demolition sparked outrage. Critics saw it as a move to erase Nehru’s legacy.
Today, Bharat Mandapam stands on the site of the Hall of Nations. It is a modern convention center. During its inauguration, Prime Minister Modi dismissed the critics of the new complex. He said that opposition was temporary.
As you stand here at East Pavilion, remember the story. The East Pavilion is the story of architectural innovation. It is a story of cultural heritage and political ideologies. Consider the layers of history beneath your feet. Reflect on what is remembered and what is lost. The East Pavilion serves as a reminder of India’s ever-evolving narrative. A narrative where progress and preservation constantly clash.