Badshah: Badshah, the well-known Indian singer-songwriter and rapper, recently made history as the first music personality to receive a special invitation from the Government of India to visit the newly constructed Parliament House in New Delhi. During his visit, Badshah expressed deep gratitude and honour, emphasizing the new Parliament House’s reflection of India’s diverse cultural heritage and democratic spirit. He admired the architectural brilliance of the structure, designed by acclaimed architect Bimal Patel, and particularly enjoyed exploring the Sangeet Gallery, which showcases India’s rich tradition of dance, song, and musical artistry.
Government of India Parliament House
Highlights of the New Parliament Building
The new Parliament House, designed to symbolize India’s democratic strength and cultural richness, stands as a modern marvel adjacent to its predecessor, constructed in 1927 by British architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker. With a hexagonal shape reminiscent of the Vijaya Temple of Vidisha, the new complex spans an area almost equal to the old one, boasting a lifespan of over 150 years and earthquake-resistant features. Inside, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha chambers accommodate 888 and 384 seats respectively, with a capacity for 1,272 members during joint sessions. Unlike its predecessor, the new building doesn’t feature a central hall; instead, it houses offices for ministers and committee rooms across four floors. Unique features include three entrances named Jñāna Dvāra (knowledge gate), Śakti Dvāra (power gate), and Karma Dvāra (karma gate), each guarded by six guardian statues. The central foyer hosts a Foucault pendulum, representing India’s integration with the cosmos. Additionally, the Lok Sabha chamber features the Sengol, while the crafts gallery, Shilp Deergha, showcases themes of festival, self-reliance, nature, joy, wisdom, harmony, faith, and journey through 255 crafts curated by artisans nationwide. This new architectural gem serves as a testament to India’s democratic progress and cultural diversity.
What is the architectural inspiration behind the new building?
The design of the new Parliament building draws inspiration from various Indian architectural styles, with elements resembling the Vijaya Temple of Vidisha.
How does the seating capacity of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha chambers compare to the old building?
The Lok Sabha chamber in the new building accommodates 888 seats, while the Rajya Sabha chamber has 384 seats. Additionally, the Lok Sabha chamber can accommodate 1,272 members during joint sessions.
How does the size of the new Parliament building compare to the old one?
The new Parliament building has a built area of 20,866 square metres, making it 10% smaller in size compared to the existing old circular building.
What is the significance of the Foucault pendulum in the central foyer?
The Foucault pendulum symbolizes the integration of India’s concept with the vastness of the cosmos and was created by the National Council of Science Museums in Kolkata.
How many guardian statues guard the entrances of the new Parliament building?
There are six guardian statues, namely Gaja, Ashwa, Garuda, Makara, Shaardoola, and Hamsa, that man the three entrances of the new Parliament building.
What is showcased in the crafts gallery, Shilp Deergha?
The Shilp Deergha gallery showcases themes of festival, self-reliance, nature, joy, wisdom, harmony, faith, and journey through 255 crafts curated by artisans nationwide.
What is the lifespan of the new Parliament building?
The new Parliament building is designed to have a lifespan of more than 150 years and incorporates earthquake-resistant features.
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