Vijender Gupta convenes meeting on heritage, conservation plan for Delhi Assembly building

ANI April 22, 2025 212 views

Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta has kickstarted a major heritage conservation project for the historic legislative building. The plan includes creating a museum, producing a documentary, and developing a light and sound show to highlight its democratic significance. Experts will blend modern techniques with traditional craftsmanship to preserve the structure's integrity. The Assembly, which once served as India's first Parliament, will also open to public visits on weekends.

"We aim to transform the Assembly into a living heritage site" – Vijender Gupta
New Delhi, April 22: Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, Vijender Gupta on Tuesday convened a key meeting with leading experts and officials to initiate the development of a comprehensive heritage and conservation plan for the iconic Delhi Legislative Assembly building--a site of profound historical and national significance.

Key Points

1

IGNCA to submit feasibility report in 3 weeks

2

Museum and light show planned to showcase democratic legacy

3

Multi-phase project to blend modern conservation with traditional techniques

4

Assembly to open for public visits on weekends

As part of the heritage initiative, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) will submit its feasibility report within three weeks. A dedicated committee will be constituted to oversee the project's progress.

According to an official release from the Delhi Assembly Secretariat, the plan also envisions the development of a light and sound show to celebrate the Assembly's legacy and the production of a documentary film to chronicle its historical and democratic significance. Additionally, a museum will be constructed to preserve and showcase the Assembly's rich heritage.

The meeting aimed to formulate a roadmap to elevate the Assembly as a site of national heritage importance. It also emphasised the need to preserve traditional architectural skills and techniques employed in its original construction, thereby honouring the craftsmanship of earlier generations.

The ultimate goal is to transform the Assembly premises into a destination of historical and cultural eminence, capable of attracting dignitaries, delegates, and visitors from across the globe.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on how to implement a holistic approach that combines modern conservation methodologies with traditional heritage values.

The experts shared their perspectives on preserving the integrity of the original structure while enhancing the experience for visitors and stakeholders alike.

Speaker Vijender Gupta expressed his vision of transforming the Assembly into a "living heritage site," symbolising both the historical evolution of democratic governance in India and the rich cultural legacy of Delhi.

He emphasised the importance of such initiatives in fostering national pride and educating younger generations.

As part of this vision, he proposed opening the Assembly to the general public on weekends, allowing them to engage with the nation's architectural and democratic heritage.

Notably, the Delhi Vidhan Sabha served as the first Parliament of Independent India.

This meeting marks the first step in what is expected to be a multi-phase heritage development project. It will involve detailed planning, architectural assessments, structural restoration, and curated cultural displays to reflect the site's national significance.

Present at the meeting were eminent personalities from the fields of heritage conservation and engineering, including Dr Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA); Dr Ramesh C Gaur, DEAN (IGNCA); Dr BR Mani, Director General, National Museum, and others.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
This is such a wonderful initiative! Our heritage buildings tell the story of our democracy. Can't wait to visit the museum when it opens. 🇮🇳
R
Rahul S.
I appreciate the focus on preserving traditional architectural skills. Hope they involve local artisans in the restoration work - that would be true heritage conservation.
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Anjali M.
The light and sound show idea is brilliant! It'll make history come alive for visitors. My kids would love this - hope they make it interactive.
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Sanjay P.
While I support heritage conservation, I hope they maintain transparency about the budget. These projects often go overboard with spending. The focus should be on authentic preservation, not just flashy additions.
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Neha T.
Opening it to public on weekends is a game-changer! More historical sites should do this. Democracy belongs to the people after all 💙
V
Vikram J.
The documentary film should include interviews with surviving freedom fighters who witnessed the early days of our Parliament there. That would be priceless historical documentation.

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Tags:
Vijender Gupta Delhi Assembly heritage conservation IGNCA Indian democracy historical buildings