Let's traverse the splendid architectural odyssey of Louis Kahn's National Assembly Building in Dhaka, Bangladesh and Le Corbusier's wonder in Chandigarh, India!
Almost four decades ago, in 1982, Louis Kahn’s National Assembly Building emerged as a beacon of Bengali democracy and Dhaka's crown jewel.
A City of My Preference: John Pardey's Favorite Destination
Words and shots by John Pardey
Prepare for an urban odyssey, as Dhaka, a mega-city of nearly 24 million inhabitants, welcomes you with open arms. The mayhem began from the moment we touched down, the city center appearing like a post-apocalyptic Mad Max rally, as cars, motorbikes, rickshaws, bicycles, pedestrians, and vendors zig-zagged through the winding streets without a care for lane markings. All was united by a cacophony of honking horns – a constant reminder of our proximity to fellow travelers.
Dhaka is a vibrant melting pot of cultures and religious harmonies, with its denizens proud of their nation, which has risen from the ashes of East Pakistan. The city, nestled on the lower reaches of the Ganges delta, is a land of water, prone to flooding during the monsoon season and surrounded by mangroves and tidal flats.
The city's heart lies in Old Dhaka, an intricate labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with trading outlets. From vibrant fabric stores to bustling meat markets, every street presents a new gastronomical adventure. Amidst the squalor, we occasionally stumbled upon hidden gems, such as pristine marble mosques or serene pockets of green. The contrast with the surrounding chaos constantly took our breath away.
It was Kahn's masterpiece – the National Assembly Building – that drew me to Dhaka. In 1960, the new government of East Pakistan sought advice from Muzharul Islam, who turned to his former tutor at Yale; Louis Kahn. The opportunity to design on such a grand scale, and with an innate belief in architecture's power to define a nation, was too tantalizing for Kahn to resist.
Kahn's design showcased his genius with space and light, integrating the building into the very landscape of Dhaka. As a result, the 'architecture of the land' emerged – an enormous lake and mounded soil platform supported the symmetrical design, which featured a centralized plan with elements reminiscent of ancient Roman architecture. Enormous geometric cut-out openings picked up on local vernacular and invited natural light to illuminate the interiors.
The building's construction was halted during the war of liberation that saw the formation of the new nation of Bangladesh in 1971, but it soon became a symbol of democracy and pride for the Bengali people. The Assembly building now stands proudly, radiating a sense of monumentality, poetry, and beauty – tangible proof of Kahn's supreme architectural craftsmanship.
Leaving Dhaka, I ventured to Le Corbusier's architectural marvel, the Chandigarh Assembly building. Unlike the urban chaos of Dhaka, Chandigarh is nicknamed 'The Beautiful City' by its residents. Here, the traffic is orderly, the streets clean, and lined with tree-filled avenues. The contrast to Dhaka could not have been starker.
Corbusier’s Assembly building showcased a more sculptural aesthetic, with dramatic curves, monumental porticoes, and sculptural elements throughout. The building was zoned into legislative chambers, committee rooms, courtyards, and public spaces, creating a harmonious yet defined cityscape. The symbol of peace and prosperity, 'The Open Hand', graced the center of the civic plaza, symbolizing a steady fusion of his early cubic forms and later sculptural expressions.
Comparing these two architectural wonders, it is clear that Kahn's masterful National Assembly is the true jewel in the crown of modern architecture. Both buildings are masterpieces of 20th-century modernism, but it is the unity, simplicity, and harmony of Kahn's design that truly captivates the eye.
Let's hope that the Bengali people can continue to find common ground after recent upheavals and continue to cherish Kahn's search for order amidst chaos.
Additional Insights:
- The Impact of Louis Kahn's National Assembly Building in Dhaka: The building remains a source of national pride for Bangladesh, representing the country's democratic values and aspirations for the future. It also helped put Bangladesh on the global architectural map, drawing attention to the rich cultural and artistic traditions present in the region.
- Le Corbusier's Legacy in Chandigarh: The city is a unique testament to Le Corbusier's vision of modern urban planning, with its emphasis on open spaces, greenery, and rational design. The city has become a site of architectural pilgrimage, drawing visitors from all over the world who seek to experience his innovative ideas firsthand.
- The Inspirations Behind the Buildings: Louis Kahn was deeply inspired by the natural landscape of Dhaka, which he incorporated into his design, while Le Corbusier drew inspiration from Indian culture and artistic traditions. By incorporating these elements into their designs, both architects created buildings that resonate with the local culture and emotions.
The traveler's lifestyle encompasses more than just architectural wonders, but the National Assembly Building in Dhaka, Bangladesh, designed by Louis Kahn, lures with its harmonious fusion of modern architecture and Bengali democracy. On the other hand, Le Corbusier's Chandigarh Assembly building presents a stark contrast, embodying an ordered cityscape that offers a refreshing change from the bustling chaos of Dhaka. Each structure serves as a testament to its respective architect's unique vision and contribution to 20th-century modernism, making them essential destinations for any dedicated traveler curious about the evolution of lifestyle and design.
