Rabindra Mandap, the major venue in the Capital city that hosts various cultural programmes throughout the year, is getting a light and sound facelift.
The Culture Department on Sunday began renovation works of the Mandap which entails putting up new sound and lightning systems. The project is being taken up at a cost of ` 70 lakh and would be completed by May 31.
Culture Director Sushil Kumar Das said renovation works on the Mandap is being taken up in a phased manner. “Last year, the corridor of Rabindra Mandap was renovated and the lawn was upgraded while tiny colourful decorative bulbs adorned the entire Mandap.
The interiors of the auditorium as well as the entrance and parking lot were also decorated with Pipili applique. The Mandap acquired a new identity last year with a mood of festivity,” he said, adding that this year it was decided to take up work on the interiors of the Mandap.
“The Mandap required a makeover as far as sound is concerned as there were complaints regarding the sound systems by audience many times in the past. Currently, 32 channel sound mixing console and similar other sound equipment will be installed in the Rabindra Mandap,” said Das.
This apart, the Department through Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) has decided to construct two fountains on the premises of the Mandap. The two small fountains at Rabindra Mandap will cost around ` 8 lakh each.
The Mandap, built in 1960s, was renovated at a cost of ` 4 crore in 2008, has a sitting capacity of 860 people, including 235 in the balcony, 560 in the main hall and 35 seats in the lobby.