The British rule in India lasted for about 250 years. During colonial rule, the British built many iconic monuments and buildings throughout India and many of them are still standing tall as ever. These buildings and monuments are a testimony to the architectural brilliance of the British.  

But, since the British left the Indian shores in August 1947, India has made massive progress in all sectors. And one of the notable developments we have seen in the past 76 years is the building of many iconic monuments. As the whole nation prepares to celebrate the 76th Independence Day, we look at some of the best post-independence monuments in India.

Iconic Architecture In India Post-Independence 

  • Lotus Temple, New Delhi 

  • Cyber Structure Egg, Mumbai

  • Auroville Dome, Puducherry 

  • Gandhi Bhawan, Chandigarh 

  • Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru 

  • National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), New Delhi 

Lotus Temple, New Delhi 

The capital of India, New Delhi is home to some of the most iconic and stunning monuments that are built by the Mughals. From the magnificent Red Fort to the imposing Qutub Minar, the list is long. But, amongst these renowned and historical monuments, stands another architectural masterpiece, the Lotus Temple, which was built after Independence.  

It is a popular tourist attraction in the city, and was built in 1986. It is a place of worship, which is built in the shape of a Lotus Flower. But, unlike other temples, the Lotus Temple does not have any idol or a priest, it is a sanctum where you can sit in silence and spend some time in solitude.  

Cyber Structure Egg, Mumbai 

This magnificent 13-storey structure in Mumbai is a commercial building that is known for its unique egg-shaped design. The building is designed by James Law and it is considered to be one of the most eco-friendly structures in the city. The building, spread over 33,000 sqm is home to many offices and it has a parking capacity of over 400 vehicles.  

The stunning design is a marvel to look at and it only reflects how far India has come in the construction industry since gaining independence from the British.

Auroville Dome, Puducherry 

Auroville is an autonomous town in Puducherry, Tamil Nadu. The golden-coloured dome, which is known as Matrimandir is an important spiritual centre in India and attracts a large number of tourists from all over the country and overseas. People who are on a self-discovery or spiritual journey love visiting Auroville.  

This incredible monument in India was designed in 1968 by Roger Agner, and the construction was completed in 2008. Since it was first opened to the public, it has continued to be an inspiration for members living in the Auroville town and others who come here to meditate, do yoga and are on their path to connect with the inner self.  

If you are planning to visit Auroville, you can also explore the other attractions in the city at your own pace and enjoy a wonderful stay experience at Club Mahindra Puducherry, one of the best resorts in Pondicherry. Since the resort is located close to the sea, you get direct access to the beach where you can spend a wonderful time with your friends and family. The world-class amenities and services will ensure that you have the most memorable holiday experience. 

Gandhi Bhawan, Chandigarh 

This is another iconic structure built in the post-independence era. Built in 1962, it was inaugurated by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a renowned philosopher, politician and the second President of India. Located in the Punjab University premises, this brilliant architectural masterpiece is one of the finest post-independence monuments in India. It is a heritage building that holds immense cultural value.

Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru 

Vidhana Soudha is an architectural wonder, and a fine specimen that reflects India’s growth in this sector after gaining independence. Located in Bengaluru, Karnataka, the construction of this stunning structure was completed in 1956.  

The neo-Dravidian architectural style of the building is inspired from the elements from the medieval Hoysala and Vijayanagara empires, and it is one of the most important buildings as it is the state Legislature of Karnataka.  

National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), New Delhi 

Fondly known as the Pyjama Building, NCDC, is a type of modernist building that features a bold and distinct form. The building is designed by Kuldip Singh, and is made using exposed concrete. This stunning structure has a complex design, but in Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s words, it is modern in terms of India’s vision of having modern thoughts and a desire to represent will, power, and strength.  

As you celebrate India’s 75th Independence Day, take a look at these magnificent buildings and monuments that are built in the post-independence era, and feel proud of how far our nation has progressed and is capable of building stunning monuments that has made the world take note of. 

About Club Mahindra

Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. (MHRIL), a part of Leisure and Hospitality sector of the Mahindra Group, offers quality family holidays primarily through vacation ownership memberships and brings to the industry values such as reliability, trust and customer satisfaction. Started in 1996, the company's flagship brand ‘Club Mahindra’, today has over 250,000 members , who can holiday at 100+ resorts in India and abroad.

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