Image Source: ARUN KUMAR NABERIA
About Gandhi Hall
There are many historical and popular landmarks situated in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. If you are planning to visit Indore, then Gandhi Hall, located just 1 km from the Indore Junction, should be on your itinerary. In this article, we will take you on a journey through this beautiful landmark and explore its history.
A Brief History of Gandhi Hall
Gandhi Hall, initially known as King Edward Hall, was inaugurated by the Prince of Wales, George V, in 1905. The architect of this building was Mr. Charles Frederick Stevens from Mumbai, who built this marvellous structure in 1904. The total cost of the construction was 2,50,000. After independence, in 1948, King Edward Hall was renamed Gandhi Hall by H.H. Yeshwan Rao Holkar II.
What makes Gandhi Hall special?
A beautiful blend of Indian and Gothic architectural elements , the structure is designed in the Indo-Gothic style. Use of Seoni stone in the hall provides durability and aesthetic appeal. The most notable feature is the clock tower or Ghantagar, that lights up during the three national festivals: Republic Day, Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, and Independence Day. The interior of the structure features ornate columns, arches, and intricate detailings.
Other Attractions at Gandhi Hall
Apart from the impressive structure, Gandhi Hall has a library, a temple, and a children’s park on its premises. The central hall is very large and can accommodate up to 2000 people for art and cultural exhibitions. Several events like the Jatra, book exhibition, handicraft fair, and mango fair are also hosted in the hall.
Current Usage
Gandhi Hall is used to host various events such as art exhibitions, cultural programs, and public gatherings. It has served as a cultural centre. Also, it’s a preferred venue for weddings, seminars, and social events.
Best Time to Visit
Gandhi Hall can be visited year-round. However, the winter months (October to February) are ideal due to the pleasant weather in Indore.
How to Reach
By Car: If you’re travelling by car, you can take the AB Road, which is well-connected to other cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states. You can park your car in the parking lot located near Gandhi Hall.
By Train: Indore Junction is the nearest railway station to Gandhi Hall, which is just 1 km away. Indore Junction is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad. You can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the station to reach Gandhi Hall.
By Air: Devi Ahilyabai Holkar International Airport in Indore is the nearest airport, located approximately 8 km away from Gandhi Hall. The airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Gandhi Hall.