search
  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad: Raze or Not?

    Located in the heart of Ahmedabad, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium is a historic icon that has stood the test of time. On the other hand, it is also one of the largest stadiums in the world, with a capacity of 50,000. The design of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium by Charles Correa represents the modernist ideals of post-independent India. Moreover, it is one of the few open areas in the city of Ahmedabad that is devoid of such spaces. After six decades of hosting numerous cricket matches, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad is awaiting the verdict on its demolition, sparking debate nationwide.

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

    The History of Cricket and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium

    Cricket’s introduction into Indian culture dates back to the British era, who used it as a tool for racial discrimination. Only, the elite class had the opportunity to play the sport and did not popularise the game for the masses. As a fight against this suppression, the first cricket match in Gujarat College tore down the barriers of caste and religion in 1845. Thus, one could say that the passion for cricket in post independent India correlated with racial equality and political progress. Clearly, this was the sign for the need for a cricket stadium in the country.

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad
    Group exercising at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium / Image Credits: World Monuments Fund (Ram Rahman)

    Thus, the Government of India granted Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) permission to build the stadium. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium was one of the first stadiums to be built after independence in the 1960s. Although numerous domestic matches were taking place in other stadiums, this was the first stadium to host international tournaments.

    Introducing Charles Correa and Mahendra Raj: The Builders of SVP Stadium

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad
    Architect Charles Correa / Image Credits: MIT News

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad
    Engineer Mahendra Raj / Image Credits: Times Now News (Ariel Huber)

    The stadium’s design blends art and technology, which is a testament to the combined efforts of the architect and engineer. Ar. Charles Correa was one of the world’s leading architects and gave a new face to modern India. Meanwhile, Er. Mahendra Raj’s collaboration with countless architects was pivotal in the completion of several modern structures, like Pragati Maidan. Their collaboration resulted in a new star in the constellation of post-modern architecture in India: the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium.

    The Architectural Prowess of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad
    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium Interiors / Image Credits: World Monuments Fund (Ram Rahman)

    Le Corbusier’s influence on Charles Correa was evident in the design of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium. It was first of its kind to utilise folded cantilevers, which was a light-weight form that reduces material and construction costs. The delicate folded plates rise from the ground with a 20 m long cantilever roof. 

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad
    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium Interiors / Image Credits: World Monuments Fund (Ram Rahman)

    It was an experimental effort at a time when there was no means of testing with computers other than using models. Being a handmade structure with folded concrete, the construction also required extensive labour.

    Present Day Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium During BAPS 60th Youth Anniversary Celebrations / Image Credits: BAPS

    The addition of the circular walking track in 1995 transformed the stadium into a common public space. The space is flexible and is used all day round by people of all generations for various activities. However, with the adjacent Narendra Modi Stadium, it is no longer in use except as a cricket coaching facility. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium has become a space that the city relates to.

    Why is SVP Stadium Getting Demolished

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium Exterior / Image Credits: Greyscape (John Gollings)

    On April 27, 2022, an assessment by the AMC declared the stadium unfit for use due to concrete weathering. Apparently, cracks are developing in the exposed concrete due to the expansion and contraction of the steel with the temperature changes. During rains, the moisture tends to seep into these cracks, which leads to the weakening of the structure.

    At the same time, Ahmedabad’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics triggered the need to demolish the modernist structure. AMC believes that the conservation measures can turn out to be costlier than the demolition, and they are lacking funds for maintenance. Luckily, organisations like the World Monuments Fund and the Getty Foundation are working towards developing a plan to protect the monument.

    Can The Public Voice Protect The SVP Stadium?

    Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium Interiors / Image Credits: Charles Correa Foundation

    The demolition of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium is not the first time that we are hearing about it. Buildings such as IIM Ahmedabad dormitories and Pragati Maidan are also under threat in the name of structural problems. Although we are conserving historic structures, there is a serious neglect of India’s modern monuments like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium. Demolition of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium is not only a loss of heritage, but also leads to concrete waste in the open. In fact, demolishing a concrete building is worse than building it. 

    But what can you do about it? You can sign this petition supporting the plea that the AMC reconsider their decision to demolish this prominent landmark. 

    Text By: Gopika Pramod

    A Colonial House in Delhi Is Turning Heads For Its Country Style Grandeur | groupDCA

    Editors’ Note – This colonial house in Delhi carries an ambience of grandeur, infused with the elegance of Victorian-style colonialism. Expansive living, dining, and kitchen areas open into light-filled spaces framed by large glazing that connect seamlessly to the surrounding landscape. Inside, tropical interiors with bold geometry add a contemporary layer of comfort. The residence […]

    Read More

    This Hilltop House in Indore Is Redefining Aesthetically Refined Living | OutsideIn Consultants

    “Hilltop House” is envisioned as a contemporary yet context-sensitive residential project that harmonizes architecture and interior design to create a sanctuary perched on a scenic elevation. The design will respond directly to the topography, climate, and panoramic views, while delivering a highly functional, comfortable, and aesthetically refined living environment. This Hilltop House in Indore Is […]

    Read More

    This Sloping Roof House In Kerala Is A Sensitive Reinterpretation Of Memory & Material | PATH

    In the layered urban grain of Manjeri, the Timeless House reimagines a 1970s sloping roof residence through careful transformation. It’s a home that doesn’t shout for attention, but quietly repositions itself within its time and place, a sensitive reinterpretation of memory, material, and movement. Originally built in 1972, the house was structurally sound, featuring load-bearing […]

    Read More

    In This Rustic Farmhouse in Hyderabad, Time Pauses and Light Dances | Sona Reddy Studio

    Editor’s Note: There’s something truly special about homes crafted with thought and care—where every corner and detail speaks to its users, becoming part of their memories. For siblings Akhila and Kaushik, Sona Reddy Studio brought this vision to life in One Summer House, a rustic farmhouse tucked within the vibrant city of Hyderabad. Designed with […]

    Read More

    Golden Accents Stand Out in the Interiors of This Noida Bungalow | Axiom Design Studio

    This southwest-facing bungalow, with golden accents in its interiors, is a refined expression of contextual and climate-responsive modern architecture. The home embraces its orientation with an intelligent façade design that balances aesthetic appeal and environmental performance. With the sun’s harshest rays hitting the structure in the latter half of the day, the architects incorporated a […]

    Read More

    This North Facing House Exudes Gentle Luxury | VPA Architects

    This North Facing villa opens towards the East to always soak in the cool and diffused light. Its orientation is mindful of the adjoining clubhouse and its expansive garden. The planning allows the villa’s private lawn to visually merge with it, creating a larger and cohesive space. With a connection to the open space at […]

    Read More

    The Jaali Design in this Layered Home Exudes Earthiness | Pranav Patel Design Studio

    An Urban Sanctuary Woven with Craft, Warmth, and Light Explicitly tucked into a quiet residential pocket, this home with a jaali facade is a thoughtfully layered expression of calm, character, and craftsmanship. Every surface and corner is rooted in intention — where light, material, and memory meet. The Jaali Design in this Layered Home Exudes […]

    Read More

    This Residence Embraces Tradition with Stone Clad Walls | Gaurav Deore Architects

    Set in the serene landscape of Nashik, the Dabholkar Residence by GDA is a home, embracing stone clad walls. Here, tradition and contemporary design exist in harmony. Designed to reflect the family’s deep connection to tradition and art while embracing the style of contemporary living, it is a space where architectural details, heritage furniture, artwork […]

    Read More

    Farmhouse Designs in India: 15 Inspiring Styles To Know

    The Indian farmhouse accommodation goes on to capitalize on a mature evolutionary synthesis of ancestral aesthetics and contemporary features. With this, the outside and the inside of farmhouses became places of comfort with nature. In this blog, we delve into 15 incredible farmhouse designs that entail a harmonious blending. While they exhibit different spaces in […]

    Read More

    This Tropical Home Design Features A Striking Sloped Terracotta Roof In Kerala | Vriksha Architects

    Aangan is a modern residence that seamlessly integrates with the lush environment of Kerala, showcasing a tropical home design. Designed to embrace the region’s warm climate, the house features a striking sloped terracotta roof at varying levels, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency. The structure is enveloped in a vibrant tropical landscape, adorned […]

    Read More
  • The Practice of Architectural Research: Initiating the Process

    A 19th Century Heritage Bungalow with a Vintage and Enduring Twist that is not just Antique but Timeless | Team Shabnam