Feel first, think later - Step into the unique world of Aatma Manthan Museum designed by Mumbai-based studio Sanjay Puri Architects in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. Nestled underneath the 270-foot Statue of Belief, a unique museum now promises to take your senses on a transformative journey. The Lord Shiva Statue is perched on a hill amidst lush greenery and is believed to be the tallest statue of the deity ever made and one of the fourth tallest statues worldwide.

“The museum had a very irregular shape plan on the outside and it was a challenge at first as to how we would be able to create all these spaces within it. The concept of this museum is self-analysis - It’s the bringing together of mind, body, and soul, which is what Aatma Manthan stands for,” says Sanjay Puri, the architect.

Overcoming the challenges of an irregular floor plan, the design philosophy creates a fluid journey into an interesting foyer. The walls, ceiling, and columns of the lounge merge into a single neutral palette constructed with foam concrete by Flexstone. The lightweight, porous material in a grey tone, enhances the meditative environment with its low density and high strength The play of light and shadow adds depth and intrigue while the irregular columns, merge with the reception table, and benches in different curvatures creating an interesting smooth cave-like space.

Spanning 18,000 sq. ft., the museum offers a sequence of 18 immersive rooms. A tranquil and calm space also translates into a healing and therapeutic experience. The architect creates a harmonizing space that creates a sense of cohesion and flow, taking one through introspective self-reflection. The larger lounge gives way to a narrow winding corridor leading you to the first display of the three elements - earth, water, and fire. The immersive experience further moves to different rooms including an audio-visual story about the mind, body, and soul depicted on walls and ceiling and then a 360-degree coverage enveloping you in a graphic composition.

Prepare to feel at peace as you enter the museum. The design of the space consists of fluid organic architecture, immersive zones, natural elements, and audiovisual displays. The irregularly shaped plan takes you through a whole series of experiences one by one in a story-like sequence.

Step into the conceptual design with a stunning sensory appeal, that resonates with emotions and thoughts, encouraging private contemplation, and making you feel something truly one-of-kind. Design stories like these add meaning and give a moment to connect within on a deeper level!

Content source: 

stirworld.com/see-features-sanjay-puri-architects-aatma-manthan-museum-coalesces-soul-mind-and-body 

thedpages.com/at-the-foot-of-god-aatma-manthan-museum/ 



 

October 22, 2024