Raj Bhavan, Government residence in Bengaluru, India.
Raj Bhavan stands on High Grounds, at 3,031 feet the highest point in Bengaluru. Sir Mark Cubbon built it between 1840 and 1842 as a single-storey bungalow; a first floor was added in 1967 in the same architectural style. Its 16-acre grounds hold century-old pine and fir trees and an artificial waterfall, and the interior displays paintings from Indian and Western schools of art.
The building was constructed in 1842 during British colonial rule and initially served as the residence of British commissioners. Following Indian independence, it became the official home of the Karnataka state governor.
The Serapis Room, a ballroom added in 1874 for the Prince of Wales's visit, is named after the ship that carried him to Mumbai. On Independence Day and Republic Day the governor hosts parties here, continuing a tradition begun under the Raj Pramukh. The art collection holds paintings from several Indian schools alongside Western works.
The property sits at the intersection of Race Course Road and Raj Bhavan Road in the city center. Advance permission from the governor's office is required before visitors can gain entry to the grounds.
The ballroom added in 1874 for the Prince of Wales's visit was named the Serapis Room after the ship that carried him to Mumbai. Eleanor Roosevelt stayed here during her visit to India, and the Congress party held its legislature party meetings in the building.
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