ByDouha Essaafi
During a remarkable journalistic journey to India, organized by the Ministry of External Affairs of India for a group of African journalists, I had the privilege of visiting one of Bengaluru’s most iconic landmarks — Vidhana Soudha. More than just a government building, Vidhana Soudha stands as a majestic symbol of India’s democratic spirit and architectural brilliance.
Rising with grandeur in the heart of Bengaluru, Vidhana Soudha is the seat of the Karnataka State Legislature. Built in a neo-Dravidian style infused with Indo-Saracenic and classical elements, the structure reflects India’s deep-rooted heritage and its progressive future. With its imposing granite façade, intricate carvings, and towering domes, it commands attention as a center of governance and a masterpiece of design.
The building is a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity — a perfect metaphor for India itself. From its elaborately carved pillars to the sweeping staircases and ornamental motifs, every inch of Vidhana Soudha speaks of craftsmanship, pride, and purpose. Its famous inscription, “Government Work is God’s Work,” engraved boldly at the front, is a powerful reminder of the institution’s mission and values.
What struck me most was the sense of order, dignity, and scale that surrounds Vidhana Soudha. As a journalist from Tunisia, witnessing the solemn yet inspiring aura of this legislative hub was both humbling and enlightening. It provided a tangible sense of how India cherishes its democratic institutions and strives to keep them accessible, monumental, and reflective of its cultural diversity.
This visit was not just a tour of a beautiful building — it was a glimpse into the soul of Indian democracy. It was also a chance to see how India honors its past while embracing the future, through its architecture, policies, and people.
I extend my sincere gratitude to the Ministry of External Affairs of India for organizing this enlightening experience and to the Indian Embassy in Tunis for facilitating our journey. The visit to Vidhana Soudha will remain one of the most memorable and inspiring moments of my professional journey.
TunisianMonitorOnline (Douha Saafi)
