India's Central Vista Project Sparks Debate Over Colonial Architecture and Heritage Politics
The redevelopment of Central Vista in New Delhi, aimed for completion by 2024, is transforming the historic government area. A new triangular Parliament building will be constructed alongside the existing structure, originally designed by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker in 1912-13. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's $2.7 billion project is presented as a reflection of 'New India' values, though some critics argue it disregards colonial history. The former Parliament will transition into a 'Museum of Indian Democracy,' while the North and South Blocks will serve as museums celebrating 'India at 75.' The Supreme Court sanctioned the project following adjustments to land-use regulations. Tensions were noted during a Hindu ground-breaking ceremony, coinciding with India's 75th Independence anniversary and the upcoming 2024 elections.
Key facts
- The Central Vista project includes a new triangular Parliament building in New Delhi
- The old Parliament building will be converted into a 'Museum of Indian Democracy'
- The project budget is INR 20,000 crore (approximately $2.7 billion)
- Completion is expected by 2024, coinciding with national elections
- The original Parliament was designed by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker in 1912-13
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government promotes the project as representing 'New India'
- The Supreme Court approved the project after legal challenges were dismissed
- A Hindu ground-breaking ceremony was conducted before construction began
Entities
Artists
- Edwin Lutyens
- Herbert Baker
- Le Corbusier
- Louis Kahn
- Narendra Modi
- Jawaharlal Nehru
Institutions
- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
- Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)
- Supreme Court of India
- Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad
Locations
- New Delhi
- India
- Raisina Hill
- Chandigarh
- Punjab
- Haryana
- Ahmedabad