Congress Inaugurates Historic New HQ ‘Indira Bhawan’ with a Walk Through Its Glorious Past
The Congress party, which has witnessed both triumphs and challenges in its long political journey, has inaugurated its new headquarters, named Indira Bhawan, located at 9A Kotla Marg in New Delhi. This multi-storey structure is a tribute to the party’s 139-year-old history and embodies the perfect blend of contemporary office design with deep-rooted historical significance. It is a vivid representation of the party’s journey since its inception in 1885, while embracing the need for modern facilities to suit current-day operations.
A Walk Through 139 Years of Congress Party’s History
The new Congress headquarters is far from just a building; it is an immersive experience that takes visitors and party members alike on a historic journey through the party’s past. With six floors dedicated to different eras of the Congress, the building is a testament to the party’s resilience, achievements, and iconic leaders. Inside the halls of Indira Bhawan, the walls are adorned with rare photographs of Congress leaders, alongside powerful quotes that capture the party’s essence over the decades.
The Congress party’s Prime Ministers, their governance achievements, and key AICC sessions are prominently displayed throughout the building. The narratives of pivotal moments in the party’s history are now permanently etched in the form of these visual displays, offering a comprehensive account of how the Congress has shaped the political landscape of India.
Priyanka Gandhi’s Vision Behind Indira Bhawan’s Interior Design
While the exterior of Indira Bhawan reflects a modern, corporate-style design with several boardrooms, large atriums, and open-office concepts, the interiors carry an unmistakable historical charm. According to party insiders, AICC General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra played a significant role in designing the interior spaces, making sure that each floor echoed a chapter of Congress’s rich legacy.
As visitors enter the building, they are greeted with a fusion of modernity and history. Priyanka Gandhi’s attention to detail ensured that the decor incorporated elements from the party’s glorious past while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic. From the iconic photographs of Jawaharlal Nehru to the more recent contributions of leaders like Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, the space reflects the party’s ongoing evolution.
Modern Amenities with a Historic Soul at Congress’s New HQ
While Indira Bhawan may lack the sprawling lawns and open spaces of the former Congress headquarters at 24, Akbar Road, it more than makes up for it with its cutting-edge design. The building, constructed by L&T and designed by Hafeez Contractor, stands as a symbol of the party’s modern aspirations. It features multiple boardrooms, an open office concept, and dedicated spaces for various departments and cells.
On the topmost floor, the offices of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi are situated. These leaders, along with other senior members, have direct access to the building’s innovative facilities designed to help the party function more efficiently in an era of digital media and corporate-style operations.
Meanwhile, the fourth floor is dedicated to AICC General Secretaries, with additional rooms for leaders of the Youth Congress, NSUI, and Mahila Congress. The third floor, with its open office plan, is meant for secretaries and in-charges, while the second floor is occupied by various party departments. The first floor houses a state-of-the-art auditorium, which will host many of the party’s major events, meetings, and functions.
A Historic Blend of the Old and New
For many Congress leaders, the opening of the new headquarters brings a bittersweet farewell to 24, Akbar Road, which had long served as the party’s headquarters. The nostalgic sentiment surrounding the old headquarters was evident on the day of the inauguration, with leaders reflecting on its nearly four-decade history. However, the Indira Bhawan is a bold step into the future, designed to align with the needs of a modern political party while honoring the Congress’s storied past.
The decision to name the building after Indira Gandhi, one of the party’s most iconic leaders, further solidifies the connection between the party’s legacy and its future aspirations. Indira Bhawan represents more than just a functional space; it is a symbol of continuity, legacy, and progress, a place where the past and present of the Congress party will intersect.
A New Era for Congress
As Congress moves forward, Indira Bhawan is a reminder that while the party adapts to changing times, it will never forget its roots. The new headquarters is not just a building; it is a statement of Congress’s enduring relevance in Indian politics. From historic milestones to modern governance, the party’s new home provides a glimpse into how it plans to navigate the challenges of today’s political landscape while staying deeply connected to its illustrious history.
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