Freedom struggle forever etched in architecture

Mahajati Sadan stands majestically at No. 166, Chittaranjan Avenue, Kolkata. It is revered as an edifice that is a reminder of India’s long and gruelling struggle for Independence. It is a glorious heritage captured in brick and mortar which accommodates a 1309-seater, fully air-conditioned theatre along with a seminar hall for 160 people. The place also has a treasure vault of unique research papers of social sciences and literature from the times of India's freedom movement to B C Roy's collection of social sciences books, excluding medical literature. Very often this majestic architectural marvel makes way for cultural programs and exhibitions, breathing life into its historical walls. This year on August 19, the Government of West Bengal’s Information and Cultural Department orchestrated a vibrant celebration to mark the 85th anniversary of this iconic monument.

Recollections of a memory lane

The history of Mahajati Sadan started in the 1930’s. The political air of the country was heavy with national sentiments and political upheaval. The anger and resentment amongst the people of the country was rising as Subhash Chandra Bose was arrested in March 1936. He was released in March 1937, and that is when a conglomerate of his followers decided to convene and create the Subhas Congress Fund. The reason was primarily to build a Provincial Congress capital for the activities of the party. Bose was nominated to head the initiative by the committee that was formed. It was his visionary idea to build a multifaceted edifice. He dreamt of a center that would be the core convention from where the party could operate all the intellectual and cultural pursuits. The original building had a grand hall, a stage for public discourse, meeting chambers for Provincial Congress dignitaries, an expansive library, and a gymnasium to nurture both body and mind, designed into the plan. 

The journey to acquire space for the project wasn’t easy. Working through the bureaucratic labyrinth, Bose was successful in acquiring a lease for a parcel of land on Chittaranjan Avenue from the Calcutta Corporation in August 1938. This was the beginning of an ambitious venture. It is said that Bose approached Tagore to come and bestow his support and goodwill. Tagore agreed and with great pomp and ceremony, Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore bestowed upon it the appellation ‘Mahajati Sadan’ or the 'House of the nation,' during a solemn foundation-laying ceremony held on August 19, 1940, symbolizing the collective aspirations of a burgeoning nation.

Bose was a man who chose the path of honour undeterred by the winds of trouble that he would have to take on his chin. The opposition and a few members of his party were sceptical of his questionable and aggressive ways which led to his expulsion from the Congress party. However, these challenges did not deter Tagore from retracing his steps for the foundation-laying ceremony. At the ceremony, Bose voiced his dream for Mahajati Sadan. He said that he saw this edifice as a center for national rejuvenation and emancipation. Unfortunately, soon after Bose was reported missing and so the elation that came with the beginning of construction was short-lived, leaving behind a tantalizing vision unrealized.

Reviving lost hope

All was not lost because Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy coming to power as West Bengal's inaugural Chief Minister, decided to make Bose's unfulfilled dream into reality. The enactment of the "Mahajati Sadan Act 1949" heralded a new chapter in the saga of Mahajati Sadan, pledging unwavering commitment to its completion and sustenance. 10 years later, the place opened its doors to the public. The statues of Subhash Chandra Bose and Rabindranath Tagore stand with pride at the entrance. As you weave your way in, you’ll be greeted by paintings of Indian freedom fighters on the walls. Though today, the time has worn out the brilliance, there was an era when Calcuttans would throng Mahajati Sadan for shows by performers like P.C. Sorcar Junior, K. Lal. A. Sarkar, and singers of the golden era of Bengali music like Hemanta Mukhopadhyay, Shyamal Mitra, Sandhya Mukhopadhyay, Arati Mukhopadhyay, Nirmala Mishra, Manna Dey, Manabendra Mukhopadhyay, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Suchitra Mitra, Gita Ghatak, Arghya Sen, Debabrata Biswas to name a few. 

Trickling away with time

Initially, the days at the Sadan were marked with glorious performances and thundering applause, but with time the shine began to recede into history. Today the place is preserved as a revered sanctuary for a myriad of cultural and intellectual pursuits. Today, it stands as a living testament to the indomitable spirit of a nation, a beacon of enlightenment and inspiration, perpetuating its rich legacy through the myriad events it hosts—ranging from corporate symposiums to political colloquiums—thus ensuring that the flame of freedom and cultural enlightenment continues to burn bright.

Exploring the neighboring tapestry

When the beauty of Mahajati Sadan has overwhelmed you, take a stroll around and visit the Rabindra Sarobar. It’s green, it’s lush and it’s a piece of heaven for those seeking solace. The iconic Victoria Memorial is also a few meters away echoing stories of colonial grandeur and artistic mastery. The Indian Museum is also a great visit where you can discover treasures of history and culture. The vibrant Park Street teems with restaurants, cafes, and shops, a bustling hub of gastronomic delights and urban charm. In contrast, the peaceful environs of St. Paul's Cathedral invite contemplation amidst architectural splendor. Together, they weave a rich mosaic of Kolkata's heritage and allure.

Kolkata is a city brimming with stories of the past. Each story has some great monument, an edifice, or an architectural marvel standing as a testament to colonial times. Take your time and immerse yourself in the halls of these great places. 