Goa's Kala Academy: an unhidden treasure marking a fine example of architectural acumen!

Built in 1983 on the banks of Campal, Panjim, Charles Correa's Kala Academy in Goa, is a historic construction with architectural, cultural and social importance. Being the only divergent cultural academy to offer western, classical and mixed arts courses, this institute is a unique example of giving back to society. This Kala Academy embodies the ideologies of one of India's greatest architects- Charles Correa and if you're a lover of art, indulge yourself in this read!

A glimpse of the interiors of Kala Academy!

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The building comprises of sketched murals, creating an illusion of Goan streets by Bhiwandker- a signboard painter who brought it to life. Along with this, pedestrian streets run into an open-sky courtyard and through the Mandovi River. A three-floored rectangular grid encapsulates voluminous spaces and the transaction between corridors concoct an experience of wandering around the streets of old Goa.

The ground floor is allotted to the visitors and the first floor to the academic and administrative departments, respectively. With a gate that is wide and low to allow a generous view inside and beyond, even a glimpse of the structure is admired by architecture students and history buffs.

The pocket-friendly cafeteria & breath-taking view!

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Kala Academy is programmed with spaces such as exhibition halls, open-air theaters, meeting rooms, lounges, rehearsal rooms, teaching rooms, admin blocks, an auditorium. Besides, the complex also contains a cafeteria that serves mouth-watering dishes in a dime, which makes it an excellent pit-stop during the events. The Dinanath Mangeshkar Auditorium's balconies are inscripted with signature cartoons of the architect and marries Indian classical with western music.

'Vocal for Local'

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Along with its magnificent structure, the institute also has a breathtaking scenic view of the Reis Magos Fort and the lighthouse on the Mandovi river which makes it an iconic riverscape. Correa's buildings around the world such as McGovern Institute for Brain Research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, National Crafts Museum and many more, are major examples of 'Vocal for Local'. Not only did he incorporate a modern framework in his constructions but also included the regions' cultural diversity, giving us the best of both worlds.

Knock Knock

Renowned personalities of Goa, with an aim to have a definitive and inclusive arts society in the state, opened this non-profit academy to promote local and international art forms without prejudice. Before the construction of this academy, the space was used by Goans for recreational activities. Surprisingly, you can still find a few old Goan houses in the area who have continued their ritual of fishing and what not! Infact if you fancy the world of art, Kala Academy is the place you should definitely visit on your trip to Goa.

Location: Panjim, Goa

Timings: Opens on Wednesdays for visitors at 9:30 AM