New Delhi: The proposal for a memorial dedicated to former President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rajghat memorial complex has been sent back for revisions by the Delhi Urban Art Commission (DUAC). The commission cited concerns regarding design consistency, presentation clarity, and adherence to the established visual character of the national memorial precinct.
The proposal, prepared by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), was recently reviewed during a DUAC meeting. The memorial is planned at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal, the designated site for memorials of former Presidents, Vice-Presidents, and Prime Ministers within the Rajghat complex.
According to meeting observations, DUAC found that certain elements of the proposed design departed from the architectural language followed in existing memorials. The commission specifically raised objections to the inclusion of a photograph of the late President on a granite platform, noting that memorials within the complex traditionally do not feature photographs. DUAC stated that such an addition could affect the sanctity and contextual character of the larger landscape and recommended exploring alternative methods of commemoration.
The commission also questioned the proposed under-platform lighting arrangement, expressing concerns that it may not align with the understated aesthetic maintained across the memorial precinct.
In addition, DUAC highlighted issues with the project’s visual presentations and technical documentation. It observed that submitted 3D visualisations extended beyond the scope of the proposal and sought clearer differentiation between existing site conditions and proposed interventions. The commission also requested a comprehensive material palette with detailed specifications, pointing out inconsistencies between listed materials and those shown in renderings.
Emphasising public safety and functionality, DUAC advised that flooring for the ambulatory pathway should remain consistent with materials used at other memorials in the complex.
Concluding that the proposal lacked coherence in its current form, DUAC has directed the project team to submit a revised conceptual proposal along with detailed responses to its observations before the memorial can be considered for approval.
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