Vidhana Soudha, Legislative building in Bangalore, India
Vidhana Soudha is a government building in Bengaluru, India, housing the seat of the Karnataka legislature. The facade of granite columns and marble walls extends over a length of more than 200 meters, while the central dome shapes the city skyline.
The foundation stone was laid in 1951 by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, as India was finding its path as an independent nation. Construction ended five years later under the guidance of Chief Minister Kengal Hanumanthaiah, who favored architecture in the local style.
The Dravidian inscription above the main entrance reminds everyone that work for the common good is a form of service. Visitors also see elements of local craftsmanship in the stonework, shaped by artisans from across Karnataka.
Guided tours through the assembly halls are available in the morning and afternoon, with access via the wide granite staircase at the main entrance. Visits are scheduled on days when no legislative sessions take place.
About 5,000 workers were involved in the construction, many of them stonemasons who carved granite from nearby quarries by hand. The building glows in warm light at night, which has become a popular sight in the city.
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