The Kala Academy in Panaji is a beautiful building that finds mention in architectural degree courses across India. It was a must-study building for us as part of the practical training tour at IIT Roorkee. Designed by the eminent Goan architect, the late Charles Correa, it is an iconic building of historical and cultural importance, being the only academy to offer a platform for western music, classical music, dance, drama, tiatr, folk art, photography exhibitions, book release functions, and literary events.
It is still a vibrant hub of social and artistic life in Goa. Many outdoor events used to be conducted at the open-air amphitheater, which, unfortunately, collapsed two years ago due to sheer neglect and lack of maintenance. What is worrisome is that there are still no signs of repair and restoration work. The future looks increasingly bleak.
The government seems least bothered about the situation and is in no hurry to set things right. The Charles Correa Foundation had offered to help with the consultancy for reconstruction gratis, but the CM would have none of it. Even a detailed structural audit demanded by engineers has not been carried out.
Correa's legacy has been ground to dust by this insensitive government, and by the looks of it, it does seem that even the other buildings where faulty renovation and structural rehabilitation have been carried out sans professional advice would soon meet the same fate as the amphitheatre.
