GHOST HAVELI

Project Details

THEME : INSTALLATION

CATEGORY: URBAN

COLLABORATOR: BRIHATI FOUNDATION

DATE: Nov 2018


Nestled within the historic enclave of Dhal Ni Pol, precisely at the French Haveli Chowk, an evocative apparition emerged during the celebrated Heritage Festival—an ethereal trace of a bygone era, a mere memory of a once majestic façade that graced the past. This spectral specter served as a poignant reminder of the illustrious history that enlivened the Pol.

In the labyrinth of the Old City of Ahmedabad, numerous Havelis and plots languished, abandoned and forlorn, gradually surrendering to the relentless passage of time. Bereft of care, these spaces transformed into somber ruins and neglected corners. It was amidst this poignant reality that the Ghost Haveli intervention sought to make a compelling statement—an unyielding critique of the current plight and a compelling invitation to envision a reinvigorated future for these forgotten realms.

At the heart of this profound installation stood a three-story scaffolding structure, meticulously erected by local artisans—a temporary testament to resilience and adaptive revival. Upon this scaffold, an elegant abstraction of the primitive preexisting windows materialized in the form of wooden planks, whispering tales of the past in their intricate design.

The crowning touch was bestowed by long vertical white fabric stripes, cascading like a soft cascade from above, meticulously emulating the grandeur of the old façade. Gently embracing the daylight, these ethereal drapes not only mirrored the architectural beauty of the past but also breathed life into the performance arena during the Heritage Festival. Like a carefully curated backdrop, they bestowed an ephemeral stage for the captivating performances that unfolded within their embrace.

The Ghost Haveli intervention stood as a poetic and artistic testament to the city's ever-evolving narrative. With every passing moment, it called upon its audience to pause and ponder, igniting conversations about the fate of abandoned spaces and the latent potential they cradle. Through this delicate dance of history and imagination, the installation encapsulated the enduring spirit of Ahmedabad—a city that cherishes its heritage while looking steadfastly towards an inspired future.