NEW ARENA FOR CULTURE
Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in the Capital will soon also be a place where one can experience cultural enrichment
The Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi has for long been a prominent hub of sports. But, what if it could be more than just that? Realising that thought, Vijay Goel, minister of youth affairs and sports, has decided to convert parts of the stadium into an art gallery of sorts.
“The Sports Ministry has great infrastructure under it. In Delhi, we have about six stadiums. But when there are no sports events scheduled, there is a lot of space that can be put to creative use without compromising on facilities for sportspersons,” says Goel.
“I’ve always wanted these stadiums to be multi-purpose. The priority is, of course, on setting up facilities for sports, both indoor and outdoor. But, spaces within the stadium can serve as a hub for cultural exchange, and also generate revenue. We will convert them into an art gallery so there’s a socio-cultural significance.”
Goel is passionate about preserving heritage, and has been instrumental in the beautification and restoration of the 33-acre garden of Red Fort, establishment of a museum at Lahori Gate, revamping of garden space at Ajmeri Gate, and restoration of Haveli Dhrampura in Old Delhi. “I’m a lover of the arts. To lend an artistic touch to the stadium campus, I discussed with galleries and artists how we can display artworks in the hall without it interfering with the sporting activities,” says Goel, who has also authored a book, The Emperor’s City, on Chandani Chowk.
As for the stadium, there will be a cafeteria for public, and camps and workshops for children. Besides that, the minister plans to have a screen installed at the venue which will screen big matches for fans. “This stadium is centrally located, has ample parking and an artistic view of the India Gate. It’s the perfect place for change to begin. Once successful, we’ll take the change to Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium and Indira Gandhi Stadium,” says Goel.
Spaces within the stadium can serve as a hub for artistic and cultural exchange, and also generate revenue for the stadium VIJAY GOEL, MINISTER OF YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS