SKETCH ESSAYS OF RASHTRAPATI BHAWAN

The first image that will be permanently stuck in my head on seeing the rashtrapati
bhavan or remembering it will be its unique dome which distinctly stands out in the
entire building. On observing,the dome seems to combine classical and indian styles
with an evolved influence taken from the pantheon and modeled on the basis of stupa
at sanchi. In the centre is a tall copper dome, surmounting a drum, which stands out
from the rest of the building due to its height. The dome is exactly in the middle of the
diagonals between the four corners of the building. The dome is more than twice the
height of the building itself.

Another striking feature which I observed was the use of chajja which was traditionally
used in the indian architecture. Chajja occupied the place of a frieze in classical
architecture; it was a sharp, thin, protruding element which seemed to be extended to 8
feet from the building, and created deep shadows. It blocks harsh sunlight from the
windows and also shields the windows from heavy rain during the monsoon season.It
was just interesting to see how the various elements from various architectural styles
were adopted for their practical uses to create this marvel which reflects a true
reflection of india through its architecture.

The column which one can see in front of the rashtrapati bhavan is known as the jaipur
column. It seems to be made up from creme and red sandstone. Since I saw it from a
distance I couldnt make out the fine details but one can clearly observe the six pointed
star on top made out of bronze below which is a lotus flower. The entire column is
supported by a steel shaft running till its base. On searching about its history I came to
know that In 1912 Madho Singh II, the Maharaja of Jaipur, offered to sponsor its
construction to commemorate the 1911 Delhi Durbar and the transfer of the capital of
India from Calcutta to Delhi.

The front of the palace, on the east side, has twelve unevenly spaced massive columns
with the Delhi Order capitals.These capitals have a fusion of acanthus leaves with the
four pendant Indian bells. The bells are similar in style to Indian Hindu and Buddhist
temples, the idea being inspired from a Jain temple at Moodabidri in Karnataka.One bell
is on each corner at the top of the column. It was said that as the bells were silent
British rule in India would not end.

There were also some very interesting patterns in various openings which one can
observe. These were the Jaalis or pierced stone lattice screens that let in the air while
providing shade from the sunlight, and shelter from rain.They were grilles made from
red sandstone.These jalis were inspired by Rajasthani design.These are varied in
pattern, some being floral and perhaps more western in that respect.It was very
interesting to see how these jaalis were blended with the opening also increasing the
beauty of the building.Also the symmetry has been throughout.

On my way to rashtrapati bhavan I also came across the secretariat building of north
and south block. The buildings seems to made from cream and red dholpur sandstone
while the base seems to be made up of the red sandstone thus indicating us about the
majorly used material of that time.Standing here one can observe a great symmetry with
north and south block on left and directing towards the upper dome of the rashtrapati
bhavan with the jaipur column right in front of it. One can also identify two distinct dome
like structures known as chhatris , a design unique to india which in older times
provided shade from the scorching sun.