Jung-e-Azadi Memorial Complex: Exhibition Galleries and Memorial Icon

Description:

Jung-e-Azadi galleries are grouped together in a circulation formation. The displays can be seen as a sequence of events chronically based on struggle for freedom. The circumambulatory movement is reminiscent of “Parikrama” around the circular Memorial Icon. The galleries at two levels have the potential to be lit with natural light from the top and the average depth is about forty feet. It is important that the galleries can be modified and flexibility for spatial division is part of the design as there are no internal columns. The iconic memorial, minar and the entrance hall are the three dominant features of the complex, integrated with a spine.

Iconic structures may be simply sensational unless they have something deeper to convey. Public buildings may symbolize certain values which may have multiple resonances. People come to the Minar at the Jang-e-Azadi with folded hands. Young married couples visit the complex to be blessed with a brave child. Structural element of the design itself signifies the dominant symbolic concerns. It forms the Rasa, the emotional flavour, which imbue the design. The Jang-e-Azadi’s circular memorial and the entrance hall are based on doubly curved concrete shells in the form of four petals which support the steel domes.