Are you looking for a unique and enriching experience in Jaipur, the Pink City of India? Do you want to explore the rich and diverse heritage of Rajasthani arts and crafts? Do you want to witness the genius of one of India’s most renowned architects, Charles Correa? If yes, then you must visit Jawahar Kala Kendra, a multi arts center that is a cultural gem in Jaipur.
In this article, we will explore the history, architecture, and significance of JKK as a cultural gem in Jaipur. We will also give you some tips on how to plan your visit and what to expect at JKK. Read on to find out more.
History of Jawahar Kala Kendra
JKK was named after Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India, who was a visionary leader and a patron of arts and culture. The center was commissioned by the Rajasthan government in 1986 and designed by Charles Correa, who based his plan on the ancient Vedic mandala of nine squares representing the nine planets. The construction was completed in 1991 and the center was opened to the public in 1993.
Over the years, JKK underwent several renovations and additions to enhance its facilities and functions. In 2015, the then Chief Minister of Rajasthan advised that JKK be refurbished for art and cultural events and exhibitions in an initiative to promote tourism and culture. The renovations saw modern additions to JKK with air conditioners and humidifiers installed in the galleries of museum and library with ramps for wheelchair users.
JKK has hosted various cultural events and exhibitions, such as the Jaipur Literature Festival, the Rajasthan Heritage Week, the International Film Festival of India, and the World Music Festival. JKK has also received several awards and recognitions, such as the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, the Indian Institute of Architects Award, and the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award.
Architecture and Layout of Jawahar Kala Kendra
JKK’s plan is based on the original city plan of Jaipur, which was conceived by Maharaja Jai Singh II in the mid-17th century. Maharaja Jai Singh II was a scholar, mathematician, and astronomer who used the Shilpa Shastras and Vastu principles to design his city according to the nine planets mandala. Charles Correa adapted and evolved this concept to create JKK as an analog of Jaipur’s city plan.
JKK consists of nine interconnected squares, each representing a planet and its associated attributes. The central square is left open as a courtyard, symbolizing the void or the nothingness that is everything. The other eight squares are assigned different functions and characters based on their planetary meanings. For example, the library is located in the square of Mercury, which represents knowledge; the theater is located in the square of Venus, which represents arts; and so on.
JKK’s exterior walls are made of red sandstone and marble, echoing the fortification walls of Jaipur’s old city. The walls are also marked by cut-out openings that display the astronomical symbols of each planet in white marble and granite. The interior spaces are designed with varying colors, shapes, materials, and lighting to create different moods and atmospheres for each square. For example, the library is circular and blue, representing Mercury’s orbit and color; the theater is octagonal and red, representing Venus’ shape and hue; and so on.
You may also like to read: Did You Know That Now, You Can Actually Go Stargazing in the Pink City?
Significance of Jawahar Kala Kendra
JKK showcases Rajasthani arts and crafts in various ways. It houses various galleries, museums, auditoriums, studios, workshops, libraries, cafes, and shops that display and promote Rajasthani arts and crafts. Visitors can admire the rich collection of paintings, sculptures, textiles, pottery, jewelry, puppets, masks, musical instruments, folk art, etc. They can also participate in various activities and events that celebrate Rajasthani culture, such as workshops, performances, festivals, fairs, etc.
JKK preserves Rajasthani culture heritage by documenting, researching, archiving, publishing, educating, and disseminating its various aspects. JKK also collaborates with various institutions, organizations, artists, scholars, etc., to support and encourage Rajasthani culture heritage preservation and development.
JKK contributes to Jaipur’s tourism and economy by attracting thousands of visitors every year, both domestic and international, who are interested in exploring and experiencing Rajasthani culture. JKK also generates revenue and employment opportunities for the local community, especially the artisans, craftsmen, performers, etc., who showcase and sell their products and services at JKK.
You may also like to read: Strangers in an unknown Land!
How to Plan Your Visit to Jawahar Kala Kendra
If you are planning to visit JKK, here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:
JKK is located opposite the commerce college on 2 Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg at Jhalana Doongri in Jaipur. You can reach JKK by public transport, such as buses, taxis, autos, or metro. The nearest metro station is Sindhi Camp Metro Station, which is about 5 km away from JKK.
JKK is open from 10 am to 9 pm every day. There is no entry fee for visiting JKK. However, some events or exhibitions may charge a nominal fee or require prior registration.
Most visitors praise JKK for its architecture, design, ambiance, and cultural offerings. Some visitors also suggest visiting JKK during the evening or night when it is lit up beautifully.
JKK has a cafe and a shop where you can enjoy some snacks and beverages and buy some souvenirs or handicrafts. You can also explore the nearby attractions, such as Birla Mandir, Albert Hall Museum, Central Park, etc., after visiting JKK.
Best Places To Stay Near Jawahar Kala Kendra
Here are some of the best places to stay near JKK, based on popularity and demand:
ITC Rajputana, a Luxury Collection Hotel
This is a 5-star hotel located 1.3 km from JKK, offering a royal and luxurious stay in the heart of Jaipur. It has elegant rooms and suites, four restaurants, two bars, a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a business center. It also organizes cultural shows and puppet shows for the guests. The average price per night is ₹7,631.
To book a stay at this property click here.
Jaipur Marriott Hotel
This is a 5-star hotel located 1.3 km from JKK, offering a modern and comfortable stay in the city’s business district. It has spacious rooms and suites, two restaurants, a bar, a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a convention center. It also provides complimentary airport shuttle service and free Wi-Fi for the guests. The average price per night is ₹8,861.
To book a stay at this property click here.
Rambagh Palace
This is a 5-star palace hotel located 2.4 km from JKK, offering an opulent and regal stay in the former residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. It has lavish rooms and suites, four restaurants, two bars, a swimming pool, a spa, a golf course, and a polo ground. It also features beautiful gardens and courtyards that reflect the royal heritage of Jaipur. The average price per night is ₹17,722.
To book a stay at this property click here.
JKK is a cultural gem in Jaipur that takes you on a celestial journey through its unique design. It showcases Rajasthani arts and crafts, preserves Rajasthani culture heritage, and contributes to Jaipur’s tourism and economy. It is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to explore and experience Rajasthani culture in a different and delightful way.
Have you ever visited JKK? What did you like the most about it? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
