Bharat Bhavan at Bhopal

Bharat Bhavan in Bhopal was the first of Architect Charles Correa’s projects  I visited as a young student in 1993. The moment I stepped into the premises through the unassuming yet large entrance courtyard, I was awestruck. The feelings of delight at that time are still vivid in my memory. I think this the one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bhopal.

This complex is a cultural center dedicated to the arts and crafts of Madhya Pradesh. It houses paintings and craft both from the vernacular and contemporary artists. With an experimental theatre and an amphitheater within the complex it also presents itself as the place for public performances.

In January 2023, I had the fortune of revisiting Bharat Bhavan, and to my joy, I discovered it to be just as engaging and captivating as it was 30 years ago. Now, as a practicing architect and dedicated academician, I have gained better insights. The building has remained timeless, engaging all who enter through its unpretentious yet magnificent entrance courtyard.

It is admirable that the building has retained its relevance throughout these years, still inviting visitors subtly through its entrance courtyard. The complex respects the sloping terrain, abutting the Bada Lake, without dominating it, creating a rich connection between the built and unbuilt elements. The ground and terraces merge seamlessly, and the sectional design works with the terrain, avoiding an imposing presence.

The interplay of built and unbuilt spaces, coupled with thoughtful attention to geometry and scale, contributes to the overall proportion, reminiscent of the finesse found in the Shalimar Gardens of Srinagar.

The three courtyards adhere to specific sizes, strategically staggered to facilitate a fluid movement from one gallery to another. The building is a timeless piece of architecture, interacting with the visitor in its unbuilt spaces like courtyards, terraces and amphitheater and letting the visitor claim that space as their own. Within the built areas the engagement is with the display of craft, art and performance.

With this, the visitor subtly changing his role from an observer to a participant as one moves within the complex, making for an interesting journey which culminates in the amphitheater. Also the journey along the terraces, providing access to the amphitheater, complements the staggered courtyards, forming almost ritualistic pathways.

Image – curtesy Archdaily

This arrangement of courtyards, terraces, and the amphitheater renders the complex approachable, maintaining the essence of a public space. The building stands as a testament to the architect’s vision, aiming to establish a modern yet India-specific architectural style rooted in its heritage. An ode to the place and terrain, the complex exudes subtlety and brilliance.

The utilization of local materials and traditional construction methods complements the overall geometry, scale, and proportion, lending a modest appearance to this otherwise expansive and brilliant complex. The intent is never to impose but rather to engage since the building not only speaks to you but also engages in a conversation, creating a comforting atmosphere. 

The place is popular with the locals as well as visitors for it offers them spaces both open and covered where they can sit with there families, friends enjoying the communal public space or just enjoy the performances offered. The steps, the amphi and the terraces provide multiple platforms to spend an evening with self,surroundings and people.

During my recent visit, I found myself returning to Bharat Bhavan within two days, first with a group and then alone. It is a place where I could sit and truly be myself ; company was unnecessary. The complex possesses a spiritual quality often reserved for temples and ritualistic spaces. I think that is what makes it a timeless piece of architecture.