NATIONAL INTEGRATION PARK
Casuarina, Bhor, Maharashtra

Project Type
Memorial for Param Vir Chakra Awardees

Site Area
1 acre

Status
Ongoing

Client
Aseem Foundation

The Param Vir Chakra also called ‘Wheel of the Ultimate Bravery’ is India’s highest military decoration, awarded for displaying distinguished acts of valour during wartime. As of January 2018, the medal has been awarded 21 times.

A memorial to honour the 21 heroes is planned at Casuarina, Bhor. The idea is to get inspired from the heroes and to learn about their missions and the difficult terrains and conditions where the wars were fought.

The memorial design is conceptualized based on the symbolism associated with the Paran Vir Chakra. A simple circle is used for its uniqueness and singularity. A form that lends a continuum and resists distractions. The design is like a journey, where one enters from a long curved path to arrive at the central circular memorial space which is designed to feel like a bowl. The central space is designed to look as if it is rising from the surrounding ground. A flag pedestal, plagues and models are placed inside this circle. On the way out, another curved path leads one through a space dedicated to various culturally significant aspects of India. The entire structure is surrounded by dense native vegetation.