Settled on the banks of the Khadakwasla Dam, Zapurza Museum of Art & Culture. It is more than just a space for showcasing art—rather it is an immersive experience hub. Zapurza Museum shelters multiple galleries, an auditorium, an amphitheater, and creative studios, seamlessly integrating nature, culture, and contemporary architecture. An amalgamation of vernacular aesthetics with modern minimalism is seen, the design creates an environment where art thrives, stories unfold, and sustainability takes the lime light. Overlooking the architectural matches:
Design Philosophy and Planning
Zapurza is a grand platform for all kinds of arts and culture. It stands as a testament, designed by Ar. Shirish Beri, Collaboration with Dilip Joshi (spanning about 7.5-8 acres)—the layout includes ten galleries, a 195-seat auditorium, an amphitheater by the lake, multiple studios for various activities, and a café. This planning of the Zapurza museum reflects the primary mission—to celebrate and preserve Indian arts and culture. Intentionally intimidating grand façades are avoided and opt for a layout that encourages exploration and interaction. The design cherishes the natural topography of the site, cascading with the contours, resulting in a vibrant interactive plaza, fostering visitor engagement & interaction. Zapurza Museum offers breathtaking views of the Khadakwasla Lake and the historic Sinhagad Fort, being unpickable to the design. A full-fledged auditorium with 200 seating capacity and an Amphitheatre with 600 seats. It also has a souvenir store & serves authentic vegetarian Maharashtrian taste. Zapurza has its own activities and shows, with arts & artifacts on permanent display and it also welcomes artists to use the in-house facilities.
The museum presents the dedication to inclusivity and accessibility, as the thought of braille descriptions, audio guides, and wheelchair-accessible ramps is made part of the experience. To further promote an atmosphere of respect and understanding, the museum actively collaborates with various communities to encourage their cultural insights and perspectives. The circulation routes allow easy movement from one space to another, and are connected yet distinct. Interactive spaces, cafes, and lounging areas are also incorporated, providing a complete cultural experience for visitors beyond art displays. The connection to the outdoors is emphasized, with courtyards and green spaces providing a sense of calm and inviting so the visitors spend more time at the site.
Material and Construction with Sustainability Initiatives
The color palette of the Zapurza museum, predominantly features the earthy tones. This is served through the locally procured traditional materials —stone masonry and terracotta tiles, harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. During the excavation, some stones and large boulders were obtained & further repurposed in construction for soling, filling, stone masonry, and landscaping. The structures beautifully integrate the load-bearing stone wall compositions, form-finished concrete, and aggregate plastered brick walls. The pitched roofs are ornamented with terracotta tiles. This rustic aesthetic resonates with the regional architecture. This choice of materials not only enhances the visual appeal of a welcoming environment to the visitor but also ensures durability and sustainability.
The sourcing of local materials supports the local economy & minimizes the carbon footprint due to transportation. The design emp on maximizing natural light and ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and climate control systems. The contours made it possible for efficient water drainage and rainwater harvesting. The landscaping includes native plant species and low maintenance. The amphitheater viewing of the lake is not only a cultural venue but also emphasizes on preservence of natural water bodies.
Behind the Scene
In 1893, Zapurza name was inspired by the poem ‘Zapurza’ written by Keshavsut, Maharashtra’s radical poet. It conveys very aptly the spirit of our endeavour. Zapurza means a ‘Creative State’, a synonym for creativity. Zapurza Museum is a form of devotion of Mr. Ajit Gadgil (Sixth generation Jeweler of P&G Jewelers) for his love & respect of art form & cultural legacy. The museum’s galleries are curated in such a way as to provide an overview of Maharashtra‘s artistic and cultural legacy. Works by renowned artists like Rabindranath Tagore and Raja Ravi Varma to the traditional Paithani sarees and jewelry, each exhibit tells a story of the respective region’s history. For instance, the Light of the World gallery, pictures of the evolution of lighting. The museum’s design is rooted in the culture itself, with visual and spatial elements that speak about Pune’s rich history and heritage. It doesn’t simply showcase art but becomes part of the artistic experience journey itself. The design respects and reflects cultural motifs, which are subtly integrated into the building’s overall aesthetic, allowing for a cultural dialogue between the structure, art and the exhibits.
In conclusion, the Zapurza Museum is a remarkable example for art enthusiasts and of the coexistence of architecture and nature. The use of sustainable materials, and innovative design, helps create a dynamic yet respectful space for art and visitors both. The design provides an impactful experience and deeper interaction with the visitors making the museum a significant part of Pune’s architectural and cultural dialogue and landscape.
Citation:
- Nair, G. (2022) Financialexpress, Lifestyle News | The Financial Express. Available at: https://www.financialexpress.com/life/lifestyle-punes-zapurza-museum-celebrating-a-collectors-unique-journey-of-art-culture-2533145/ (Accessed: 28 February 2025).
- Zapurza – Museum of Art and culture, at Kudje near Pune (2023) shirish beri. Available at: https://shirishberi.com/select-projects/public-commercial/zapurza-museum-of-art-and-culture-at-kudje-near-pune/?utm_source=chatgpt.com (Accessed: 28 February 2025).
