The Vidhan Soudha Karnataka, located in city of Bangalore (now Bengaluru), is the seat of the state legislature of Karnataka. It is an imposing structure, built in what is sometimes described as ‘Neo-Dravidian’ style of architecture; it incorporates into it elements of Indo-Saracenic, Rajasthani Jharokha and Dravidian styles.
The Vidhan Soudha Karnataka has 4 floors above ground level and a basement. The building sprawls over an area of 700 by 350 feet and it is the largest Legislative building in India. The eastern face of the Vidhan Soudha has a porch with 12 granite pillars, each 40 feet tall. A flight of stairs with 45 steps, more than 200 feet wide leads to the foyer. The central dome, 60 feet in diameter, is crowned by a likeness of the Indian national emblem- the Asoka Stambha. The building is illuminated on Sundays and public holidays.
The Karnataka government has constructed a replica, of the Vidhan Soudha named Vikasa Soudha, to the south of the building. Initiated by ex Chief Minister, S M Krishna, and inaugurated in February 2005, this building is intended to be an annexe of the Vidhan Soudha, housing some of the ministries and legislative offices.
Opposite to Vidhana Soudha is The High court of Karnataka, another beautiful building of Bangalore. Both buildings are located at Cubbon Park.
History
The Vidhan Soudha Karnataka, located in city of Bangalore (now Bengaluru), is the seat of the state legislature of Karnataka. It is an imposing structure, built in what is sometimes described as ‘Neo-Dravidian’ style of architecture; it incorporates into it elements of Indo-Saracenic, Rajasthani Jharokha and Dravidian styles.
The cost of construction at that time was just 17.5 million rupees. But presently, the annual maintenance cost of the Vidhan Soudha Karnataka itself is more than 20 million rupees.
