Pragati Maidan of Delhi, established in 1972 is a premier exhibition centre that hosts various national and international events, fairs, and trade shows throughout the year. The sprawling campus covers an area of over 150 acres and boasts state-of-the-art facilities to facilitate various events.
One of the most anticipated events at Pragati Maidan is the Auto Expo, India's largest automotive show. The annual New Delhi World Book Fair held at Pragati Maidan attracts book lovers, publishers, authors, and literary enthusiasts from across the globe as well.
History of Pragati Maidan
Pragati Maidan was built in 1972 as a venue for the Asia 72 trade fair. It was designed by architect Raj Rewal and engineer Mahendra Raj. The name Pragati Maidan means “progress grounds” in Hindi and has 16 exhibition halls.
Some of the historical events that took place at Pragati Maidan are:
- The first International Film Festival of India in 1982
- The first International Book Fair of India in 1988
- The first Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 1983
- The first India International Trade Fair in 1980
Architecture of Pragati Maidan Delhi
Pragati Maidan has a unique and diverse architecture that reflects the different styles and influences of India. Some of the notable buildings and structures at Pragati Maidan are:
Hall of Nations: This was the main exhibition hall of Pragati Maidan, which had a distinctive geometric design and a large dome. It was demolished in 2017 as part of the redevelopment plan of Pragati Maidan.
Nehru Pavilion: This is a museum dedicated to the life and achievements of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India. It has a circular shape and a lotus motif on the roof.
Shilpgram: This is a crafts village that showcases the handicrafts and folk arts of various states of India. It has a rustic and natural ambience with mud huts, thatched roofs, and bamboo fences.
National Science Centre: This is a science museum that has interactive exhibits and displays on various topics such as astronomy, biology, physics, chemistry, etc. It also has a planetarium, a library, and an auditorium.
Events at Pragati Maidan
Pragati Maidan hosts a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from cultural festivals to business expos. Some of the major events that take place at Pragati Maidan are:
India International Trade Fair: This is an annual trade fair that showcases the products and services of various sectors and industries of India. It attracts millions of visitors and exhibitors from across the world. It usually takes place in November. It showcases a diverse range of products and services from different sectors, including textiles, handicrafts, electronics, and machinery.
Auto Expo: This is a biennial automotive show organized by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) that displays the latest models and innovations of cars, bikes, trucks, buses, etc. It is one of the largest auto shows in Asia. It usually takes place in February.
World Book Fair: This is an annual book fair that features books from various genres, languages, and regions. It also has literary events, seminars, workshops, etc. It is one of the largest book fairs in Asia. It usually takes place in January.
Surajkund Mela: This is an annual crafts fair that showcases the traditional arts and crafts of India. It also has cultural performances, food stalls, games, etc. It is one of the largest crafts fairs in India. It usually takes place in February.
India International Mega Trade Fair (IIMTF): IIMTF is a comprehensive trade fair that features exhibitors from various industries, including consumer goods, electronics, fashion, and home decor. It provides a platform for businesses to showcase their products and services to a wide audience and facilitates networking and business opportunities.
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Food at Pragati Maidan
Pragati Maidan has many options for food and beverages for its visitors. There are food courts, cafeterias, restaurants, kiosks, etc. that offer a variety of cuisines and dishes. Some of the popular food items that you can find at Pragati Maidan are:
Chaat: This is a street snack consisting of fried or boiled potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt, chutneys, spices, etc. There are many types of chaat such as papdi chaat, bhel puri, dahi puri, etc.
Paratha: This is a flatbread stuffed with different fillings such as cheese, potato, cauliflower, paneer, etc. It is served with butter, pickle, or curry.
Chole Bhature: This is a dish that consists of spicy chickpea curry and fried bread. It is a popular breakfast item in North India.
Biryani: This is a rice dish that is cooked with meat or vegetables and spices. There are many varieties of biryani such as chicken biryani, mutton biryani, veg biryani, etc.
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Timings & Entry Fee Of Pragati Maidan Delhi
Opening Times: Pragati Maidan is usually open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, it's advisable to check the official website or contact the ITPO for specific timings, as they may vary.
Entry Fee: The entry fee for Pragati Maidan also varies depending on the event. For many exhibitions and trade fairs, there is a nominal entry fee that can range from INR 50 to INR 200 per person.
Students and senior citizens may be eligible for discounted rates, while some events may offer free entry to certain categories of visitors. Again, it's best to check the official website or contact the ITPO for the most up-to-date information on entry fees.
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Places To Visit Near Pragati Maidan Delhi
India Gate: A war memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I, India Gate stands as a solemn yet striking monument. Surrounded by well-manicured lawns, it offers a serene spot for an evening stroll or a picnic, with food vendors adding to the lively atmosphere.
National Museum: The National Museum is a treasure trove of Indian history and art. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, paintings, and manuscripts, providing a comprehensive overview of India's cultural heritage.
Rajpath: Rajpath is a ceremonial boulevard that connects India Gate to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President of India's official residence. It serves as the venue for the Republic Day parade and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a leisurely walk and soak in views of the city's landmarks.
National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA): NGMA is a hub for modern and contemporary art in India. It features a diverse collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and installations, showcasing the evolution of Indian art over the years.
Purana Qila: Purana Qila, or Old Fort, is a historic fort that dates back to the 16th century. It houses several notable structures, including the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque and the Sher Mandal, and offers insights into Delhi's architectural and cultural history.
Crafts Museum: The Crafts Museum showcases India's rich craft heritage, with displays of traditional textiles, pottery, and handicrafts from across the country. It offers visitors a glimpse into the skill and artistry of Indian craftsmen.
How to Reach Pragati Maidan
Pragati Maidan is well-connected by various modes of transport and routes. You can reach Pragati Maidan by:
Metro: The nearest metro station is Pragati Maidan Metro Station on the Blue Line. It is about 1 km away from the main gate of Pragati Maidan.
Bus: There are many buses that ply to and from Pragati Maidan from different parts of Delhi. You can check the bus routes and timings on the Delhi Transport Corporation website or app.
Car: You can drive your own car or hire a cab or a taxi to reach Pragati Maidan. There are parking facilities available at Pragati Maidan for a nominal fee.
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Tips for Visiting Pragati Maidan Delhi
Check the schedule and timings of the events that you want to attend and book your tickets in advance online or offline.
Carry a valid photo ID proof and a printout or a digital copy of your ticket for entry and security purposes.
Avoid carrying large bags, valuables, or prohibited items such as weapons, alcohol, drugs, etc. as they may not be allowed inside the premises.
Follow the instructions and guidelines of the staff and volunteers and respect the rules and regulations of the venue.
