Vidhan Soudha

Known as the brainchild of the former Chief Minister of Mysore, late Kengal Hanumanthaiah, Vidhan Soudha, the seat of Karnataka Legislature is a true secular edifice. Featuring British, Dravidian, and Indo-Islamic architectural patterns, a past wilderness has been now converted into one of the much famed architectural marvels of the country.

Made in Bangalore granite, Vidhan Soudha is spread over a lush 60 acres. The foundation of this building was laid on Jul. 13, 1951 by the contemporary Prime Minister Pt. Jawaharalal Nehru. Completed in 1956 with an expenditure of Rs. 1.84 crores, Vidhana Soudha was built with a vision to symbolize the legislative sovereignty of the people like the capital in Washington or The House of Commons in London. This rectangular building measuring 700x350 feet is one of the largest Legislative buildings. Built in the neo-Dravidian architectural pattern, it is one of the most daunting structures in the country.

Constructed on modern designs, using steel, reinforced cement, concrete glass and plastic; Vidhan Soudha is a perfect blend of ancient and modern architectural styles. A truly massive and striking structure that this legislative assembly is, there are two chambers in it.

Located on the first floor, the Legislative Assembly Chamber can accommodate 268 members. There is a provision to expand this 125 by 132 feet chamber to enable it to accommodate 100 more members. The southern wing of the assembly houses the second chamber named the Legislative Council Chamber. Measuring 100 by 78 feet, this has a seating capacity of 88 members.

Spread over a total floor area of 5, 05,505 sq feet, Vidhan Soudha is housed in Cubbon park and overlooks the Karnataka High Court.