The Jaipur Constitution Park, known as Samvidhan Park, offers an immersive museum experience, showcasing the birth of the Indian Constitution from the formation of the drafting committee in 1947 to its enforcement in 1950.
Jaipur’s one of a kind, Constitution Park
Located at the Governor’s House in Jaipur, Samvidhan Park is the first of its kind in the country, providing a scriptural and pictorial journey through the history of the Indian Constitution. The park not only focuses on the drafting of the Constitution but also takes visitors back to the eras of Vedic civilization, influential emperors, rulers, kings and queens, and early freedom fighters. This is achieved through an array of statues, plaques, and sculptures.
Historical Figures and Their Contributions
The park features sculptures from various periods, including those of the Indus Valley civilization, Lord Krishna, Lord Buddha, Maharana Pratap, Shivaji Maharaj, Tipu Sultan, Akbar, Rani Laxmi Bai, and Mahatma Gandhi. These figures are honored for their contributions to shaping the Constitution’s provisions. For example, the sculptures of Shivaji Maharaj and Guru Gobind Singh are shown inspiring Articles 324 and 329A, which deal with election provisions. The Mahabalipuram Scripture, depicting Bhagirath’s penance and the descent of Ganga, inspires Articles 301-307 related to trade and commerce. Tipu Sultan and Rani Laxmi Bai’s contributions are acknowledged in the provisions for the reservation of seats for scheduled castes and tribes (Articles 330-342).
Architectural Splendor and Artistic Innovation
The park is divided into two main sections: one focusing on the journey of creating the Constitution and the other on its content. A total of 42 installations, made from materials such as metal, white marble, Baislana stone, rock, and Kadappa stone from South India, grace the park. The project, costing Rs 9.5 crore, involved artisans from Agra and Sikandra. Anoop Bartaria, the park’s designer and architect, stated, “The book cover was made up of Kadappa stone with inlays of liquid brass to give the closest look to the original copy. Most of the installations are linked with a QR code which will enable the visitor to listen to a story the art is stating.”
The park’s main highlight is the Preamble of the Constitution, adorned with paintings of a horse, elephant, lion, and bull, symbolizing the civilization of Mohenjo-daro, framed in a golden border. This striking display captures the essence and grandeur of the historical document.
Immortalizing the Constitution’s Makers
One notable installation features Baba Bhimrao Ambedkar, the chairman of the Constitution drafting committee, alongside seven other committee members. This installation, based on the only known photograph of these notable figures together, immortalizes their contributions. Additionally, another installation portrays the women members of the drafting committee, capturing their appearance in traditional attire from that era.
A Blend of Technology and Tradition
To enhance the visitor experience, many installations are equipped with QR codes that, when scanned, provide audio stories about the depicted art. This blend of technology and traditional craftsmanship ensures that the park is not only a visual delight but also an informative journey through India’s constitutional history.
Constitution Park stands as a testament to the rich heritage and meticulous effort that went into creating the Indian Constitution. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the historical journey that shaped the democratic framework of India.