Built to celebrate 25 years of Independence, the Hall of Nations, a landmark in Delhi, showcasing modernity, indigenous talent and recognized across the world as work of art was demolished overnight on Monday.
Hall of Nations and The Hall of Industries buildings at Pragati Maidan were demolished on 23rd April Night. It’s a sad day for Architecture, Delhi and the country that celebrated it as a symbol of modernity. So much for Heritage, Modern Monuments, progressive movements, the collective civic space, make in India, institutions that were structured to protect the collective interest and development processes.
Build by renowned architect Raj Rewal the building was demolished after the Delhi High Court dismissed a petition filed by the architect to preserve the structure.
The building came under threat as the Indian Trade Promotion Organisation that came up with the redevelopment plan of Pragati Maidan did not want to keep the structure.