Uplift/Unwind

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Park

Project: Master Plan for Grand Memorial of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar

Year: 2014

Client: Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority

Location: Mumbai, India

Site Area: ~4 ha

The overall Grand Memorial of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar concept* is based on “uplifting society”, in both a physical and metaphorical sense. This representation is accomplished by physically lifting the building of the Grand Memorial and slopes towards the sea. Visitors will be drawn into the Memorial from the street and as they walk through and along the top of the memorial will feel uplifted and have an opportunity to unwind as well. It will also become a place promoting social equity and true upliftment and enrichment of people.

The Grand Memorial is not only in remembrance of Dr. Ambedkar, but it is a place to actively engage in the continuation of the dialogue he started and to realise his message. The design and multifunctionality of the site supports the creation of a place that will be used for Dr. Ambedkar’s memorial and pilgrimage, as well as being a place to be frequented by local, regional and international visitors throughout the year.

*In association with Martha Schwartz Partners, US and local architects in Mumbai