RAJ MANDIRARCHITECT- W.M. NAMJOSHI

BY- FALAK ARORAB.ARCHMBS SPA

RAJ MANDIRRAJ MANDIR is a cinema hall situated in Jaipur.It was the dream of Shri Mehtab chandra Golcha who wanted a cinema hall that will cross the boundary of traditional cinema.

He wanted a cinema hall that could hold his audience for his style and elegance. A cinema that will make his audience feel like that they are the royal guest of a palace and are invited for a complete entertainment.It was inaugurated on 1st June 1976.

The stars engrafted into the façade are illuminated at night with the help of concealed lighting. The name of the cinema hall is embossed in large neon letters at the top of the building.

Famous architect of that time Shri W.M. Namjoshi designed Raj Mandir in a Art Moderne Style.

Interior and Exterior of this single screened talkie was done with great concern and care. With their elaborate superfluities and remarkable architecture, Rajmandir represents one of the most outstanding creativity. An architectural venture in itself, its each design is a remarkably splendid sample of unbelievable artistry, covering a sense of mystery, deception and art. Be it is the “Nine Stars” on the exterior of the Rajmandir or “revoloving panel” in interior, each has its own story and significance.

While Nine stars on the exterior signifies the nine gem stone and highlights the occupation of the Surana's Family, Sky format chandeliers graced with stars on its surrounding reminds the dreams of Shri Mehtab chand Golcha. All these are the perfect example of master craftsmanship and elegance.

The pride of Asia has always remains as a symbol of beauty and creativity. The main lobby of this cinema hall casts a magic spell on each and every visitor. One of its unique feature is the lightning system. Before the show starts the lobby is illuminated by white lights, whereas in the interval the light changes its colour to magnificent blue.

The high ceilings are ornamented with chandeliers.

Rajmandir Cinema, Jaipur has a lobby whose dome shaped ceiling in graced with chandeliers. The patrons reach the balcony area by walking a ramp-like structure.

A frond fern leaf-like plaster trough conceals these lights and the trough has openings all over the ceilings and walls.

The dazzling chandeliers, the domes, the lobby, the flooring, and the lighting give the theatre an elite look .One can be captivated by having a look at the elaborately decorated ceiling which is one of its kinds. The massive yet mesmerizing chandeliers at the ceiling embody the extravagant. The carpets covering the floor of the hall are marks of royalty.

The movie hall is also impressively and lavishly decorated.

It was the appeal and glamour of the Rajmandir that it was considered as the finest architecture building in the history of cinema halls and was given the title “Pride of Asia”.