Bharat Bhavan is an arts centre and museum set up by the government of Madhya Pradesh in the 1980s, and is especially known for promoting arts and crafts practised by the indigenous artist community. It was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, on February 13, 1982.
This Bharat Bhavan Bhopal museum is designed by the well-known architect Charles Correa and borrows elements from the idyllic landscape of the Shamla Hills, illustrated in a series of low-lying structures that are dispersed throughout the property. These low-lying structures feature terrace gardens and cascade down the slope of the hills, making it the best among places to visit in Bhopal.
Bharat Bhavan Architecture
Bharat Bhavan Bhopal was founded as a creative hub for cultural activities. From the start, it showcased art with a focus on the present and coexistence, rather than simply sorting works by historical periods.
The Roopankar Museum of Art, established by painter Jagdish Swaminathan, was developed by a group of students who sought out talent from all across Madhya Pradesh. The museum emphasises works representing both tradition and the artist's individual perspective.
Beyond being a collection, Roopankar offers workshops in printmaking, ceramics, bronze casting, and stone carving, along with regular camps to foster artistic exchange. The Bharat Bhavan Biennial of Contemporary Art began in 1986, followed by the Bharat Bhavan International Print Biennial in 1989.
The complex features galleries of Indian painting and sculpture, a fine art workshop, an open-air amphitheatre (Bahirang), a studio theatre (Abhirang), an auditorium (Antarang), a museum of tribal and folk art, and libraries dedicated to Indian poetry, classical music, and folk music. The Ashram hosts artists and writers under a residency program.
Bharat Bhavan Location: 5 km from Bhopal Junction, next to Upper Lake, Bharat Bhavan is a top cultural destination in Bhopal.
Established: 1982, funded by the Government of Madhya Pradesh
Purpose: To foster an interactive experience across visual, performing literary arts, contemporary expression, theatre, drama, dance, music, etc.
Bharat Bhavan Bhopal Timings: 2 PM - 8 PM (Feb - Oct), 1 PM - 7 PM (Nov - Jan), Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Rs 10 (Free on Fridays
Map Guide of Bharat Bhavan Bhopal
Bharat Bhavan Bhopal has four distinct auditoriums dedicated to various arts.
Rang Mandal (Theatre Complex)
Antrang: An indoor playhouse where you can watch diverse dramatic performances
Bahirang: An outdoor theatre that conducts open-air performances
Vagarth (Classical Music and Poetry)
Concert Hall: Experienced musicians perform classical music.
Poetry Library: A retreat for poetry lovers, this one has around 7000 verse books in multiple Indian dialects.
Roopankar (Museum of Art)
Contemporary Arts Section: Contemporary artists display their talents here.
Tribal and Folk Art Section: This segment is a great collection of traditional compositions, including India’s rich tribal and cultural heritage.
Anhad (Library of Classical and Folk Music)
Music Archive: A treasure chest for music lovers, this one offers deep insights into India’s musical inheritance.
Ashram (Residency for Guest Artists)
Artist Residency: This section provides lodging facilities for various artists. Here, different artists from different categories come together to create a blissful environment.
Places to Visit Near Bharat Bhavan
Do you have further time to tour? Given below are some best places to visit near Bharat Bhavan Bhopal:
1. Upper Lake (Bhojtal)
Do you enjoy bird-watching, boating, and sitting in tranquil sunsets? Then, Upper Lake is for you. There is also a Kamla Park nearby that offers a peaceful ambience.
Location: About 2 km from Bharat Bhavan Bhopal
2. Van Vihar National Park
Van Vihar National Park is a protected area and a zoological park with diverse wildlife species. Examples of such include tigers, leopards, bears, etc. Nature walks can be done here as well.
Location: About 3 km from Bharat Bhavan Bhopal
3. Taj-ul-Masajid
Taj-ul-Masajid is one of the largest mosques in India. It has a wonderful design and a tranquil atmosphere.
Location: About 5 km from Bharat Bhavan Bhopal
4. State Museum Bhopal
Are you a lover of historical artefacts, paintings, fossils, and sculptures, etc.? Then, this museum in Bhopal is a must-visit.
Location: About 1.5 km from Bharat Bhavan Bhopal
Conclusion
Bharat Bhavan is the epitome of culture. It is an arts centre and a museum established by the government of Madhya Pradesh in the 1980s, and is particularly recognised for its support of arts and crafts practised by the indigenous artist community. Do visit Bharat Bhavan Bhopal with your loved ones and share your experience in the comments!
