New Delhi: The Delhi Urban Arts Commission (DUAC) has accepted the revised proposal for a samadhi dedicated to former President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rajghat Samadhi Complex, following modifications made in response to the commission’s earlier design observations.
The proposal, submitted by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), was reconsidered by DUAC at the formal stage after the architect submitted point-wise responses addressing the concerns raised during the commission’s earlier review.
The proposed memorial is located within Rashtriya Smriti Sthal, the designated common memorial site for deceased Presidents, Vice-Presidents and Prime Ministers of India. Pranab Mukherjee, who passed away in August 2020, served as India’s 13th President from 2012 to 2017.
DUAC had initially considered the proposal at its meeting on May 14, 2026, when it raised several observations concerning the design and its relationship with the existing memorial landscape. One of the key concerns was the proposed installation of a photograph of Mukherjee on a granite platform. The commission noted that existing samadhis within the complex do not feature photographs and advised exploring an alternative approach that would preserve the sanctity and contextual character of the memorial precinct.
The commission also raised concerns about the proposed lighting beneath the square memorial platform, observing that the feature could be inconsistent with the understated visual character of the existing memorial complex.
In addition to design-related concerns, DUAC flagged issues with the project’s 3D visualisations and presentation. The commission directed the project team to show the surrounding complex in its existing condition and ensure that the visual material remained focused on the proposed intervention rather than extending beyond its scope.
Following the observations, the revised proposal was submitted to DUAC along with the architect’s point-wise replies. The commission examined the updated drawings, documentation, photographs and responses and subsequently found the revised proposal acceptable.
The clearance marks an important step towards the development of Pranab Mukherjee’s memorial within the Rajghat complex, while highlighting the importance of maintaining visual restraint, contextual sensitivity and continuity with the established character of the national memorial landscape. TOI
Also Read: DUAC Returns Proposal for Pranab Mukherjee Memorial at Rajghat, Seeks Design Revisions
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