End of an Era: Reflecting on the Old Parliament building’s remarkable story

The journey of India’s Freedom Struggle against the British Empire is not just some dates on the calendar; it’s the spirit that soars high in millions of hearts. Even after decades, the legacy of our nation’s extraordinary journey continues to resonate on every street in India and each edifice serves as a living tribute to the most heroic odyssey of history.

The Old Parliament building stands tall as one such testament to this extraordinary journey. Its historic walls, which once echoed with debates and deliberations that shaped the nation’s destiny, now bear witness to the enduring spirit of democracy and the sacrifices made for India’s Independence. This iconic structure is situated in Delhi and was designed by British architects, Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. It was completed in 1927 after six years of the building process. Till date, it serves as a constant reminder of India’s rich heritage and its unwavering commitment to democratic values.

However, on May 28, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, inaugurated the ‘New Parliament Building,’ marking the end of an era for the old structure. Therefore, as we bid a heartfelt farewell to this monumental marvel,  it becomes essential to acquaint ourselves with some of the most intriguing facts about it.

Read on to know more…

Unraveling the Old Parliament building’s architectural marvel

·          The circular layout of the Old Parliament building represents the concept of “continuity” in democracy, signifying that the government is a lasting institution despite changing leaders. It also highlights equality among all members of the Parliament, regardless of their political stance or role, ensuring that every voice has an equal chance to be heard, a fundamental principle in a democratic system.

·        The historical circular structure featured a stunning array of 144 cream sandstone pillars, each standing at 27 feet in height. Back in those days, the entire construction project came with a price tag of approximately Rs 83 lakh, which translates to roughly $99,000.

Historical moments of India that have been unfolded within the walls of the structure:

·          In the iconic Central Hall of Parliament, the pivotal transfer of authority from the UK to India occurred at the stroke of midnight on August 14-15, 1947. This historic event marked India’s emergence into independence, signifying a transformative moment in its history.

The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly was convened in the Constitutional Hall, also known as the Central Hall. This momentous occasion was the beginning of a collective effort to shape India’s constitution and destiny.

Memorable speeches engraved in the halls of this iconic building:

·        One of the most celebrated speeches in the Indian Parliament was delivered by India’s first Prime Minister, Late Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on August 14, 1947, just before India gained Independence from British rule. This speech is commonly known as “Tryst with Destiny.”

Fun Fact: “Tryst with Destiny” was the ultimate freestyle! No notes, no script, just pure heart, and passion. He was known for his epic speaking skills, and on that big night in 1947, he let it all out. It was like he was talking to the entire nation and the world straight from the soul. That’s what made it so incredibly unforgettable and powerful.

Global events which occurred in the Old Parliament:

·        In 1947, the Old Parliament House played host to a momentous event: The inaugural meeting of the UN. This historic occasion not only signified India’s newfound independence but also marked its entrance onto the global stage as a sovereign nation.

·        The Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation signed in the Central Hall of the Old Parliament building in 1971 was truly a game-changer. It forged a powerful alliance between India and the Soviet Union, happening right in the midst of the intense Cold War. This treaty went beyond just diplomacy; it had wide-ranging impacts on economics, military strategy, and cultural exchange. It’s a vivid example of how this historic building played a vital role in shaping international relations, showcasing India’s skill in global diplomacy.

The restoration of the icon:

·        In the early 1980s, a thorough restoration project was initiated to safeguard the structural integrity and historical importance of the Old Parliament building. This extensive endeavour not only involved careful renovations but also the meticulous preservation of its artistic and architectural heritage. The result is a timeless monument that stands proudly as a symbol of India’s democratic legacy and architectural heritage.

·        On December 10, 2020, the foundation stone for the new Parliament building was laid marking the end of an era.

The Old Parliament building has stood as a silent witness to the unfolding of India’s rich democratic history, where decisions of monumental importance were made for the nation. As we transition into a new era, symbolised by the construction of the New Parliament building, we hope that it too will become a place where heroic decisions are made for the betterment of the country. With this new chapter in India’s legislative history, we anticipate the birth of a space where the nation’s future will be shaped.

What next?

The building will be converted into a museum. The decision was announced by the Prime Minister in September 2023, when the new Parliament building was inaugurated. This museum will showcase the history of the Indian Parliament and the Indian Constitution. It will also house a library and a research center. The government has allocated Rs 2,000 crore for the renovation and conversion of the building into a museum. It is expected to be open to the public by 2025.