Jaipur’s famous theatre and exhibition centre Jawahar Kala Kendra or JKK was designed by architect Charles Correa. Since its inception in 1991, JKK has been a hub for art, theatre and a museum. The center hosts various cultural events, exhibitions and more, reflecting the traditional and modern art of Rajasthan. Its unique design, modern architecture and religious elements make it a notable landmark in Jaipur.

The Rajasthan government launched Jawahar Kala Kendra to showcase the state's rich artistic heritage and promote cultural and religious importance. The building’s façade, with its high walls and no openings, makes it appear closed from the outside.

Location: 2, Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, opp. Commerce College, Jhalana Doongri, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004

History of Jawahar Kala Kendra:

Charles Correa the late architect from MIT, created and built the Jawahar Kala Kendra in 1986. The structure was built in 1991 and was used as the “Navagraha,” (nine planets or nine squares) design, known as the “nine-house mandala.” The Rajasthani government commissioned the construction of this centre, which was opened to art and cultural lovers in 1993.

With time, JKK’s maintenance deteriorated and the complex was usually ignored. People came for a governmental representative to hold some function or for customary fair or mela. To encourage tourism and culture, the former chief minister of Rajasthan, highly recommended in 2015, that the Jawahar Kala Kendra be restored again for arts and cultural program.

Air conditioning and humidifiers were installed in the museum gallery and library. Ramps are also available for wheelchair-accessibility which makes them suitable for crippled ones.

Architecture of Jawahar Kala Kendra:

The Kendra was constructed with the intent of preserving the ancient culture, tradition and art of Rajasthan. The architectural concept can be witnessed in the principles of Vastu and Shilpa Shastra. The main structure comprises theatres, exhibition galleries, dormitories, restaurants, auditoriums and coffee houses. Each area of the Jawahar Kala Kendra is modelled after a Navagarha planet, which is great in terms of color, personality, astrological values and operation.

Red sandstone and white marble make it all for the entire complex and each square building’s façade is adorned with vastu motifs Charles Correa. The structure was finished in 1991 and was built using the Navagarha design, often known as the nine-house mandala. The Rajasthan government commissioned the center’s construction and in 1993 it was opened to art and culture lovers.

Major Attractions of JKK:

JKK Theatres –

The Jawahar Kala Kendra has three theatres—two closed and one open. The open theater, which can hold 400 people at once, is more well-known among tourists. It is located in the middle of the property. Young artists prefer to rehearse their plays there because of the venue’s openness. The two theaters are known as Rangayan, which “hosts current plays,” and Krishnayan, which “presents more personal plays that focus on societal themes.”

JKK Galleries & Museums –

The Alankar Museum is a two-storey museum and exhibition hall at Jawahar Kala Kendra. Its display includes artifacts, a rich collection of ceramics and wood, and ornamental goods, including giant wooden doors with elaborate carvings, noble furniture, statues and sculptures of well-known Rajasthani symbols, pottery, lanterns, hookahs, and more.

JKK Exhibitions & Festivals –

Navras is a renowned multidisciplinary performing arts festival, “Navras.” The festival is a week-long festival that lets everyone partake in the architectural walk of this place. The other performances include theatre plays, music and traditional dance performances. Lokrang is another yearly celebration of country folk art and culture. This typically occurs in October or November and lasts around 10 days. Several workshops, exhibitions, activities and performances are planned to entertain the guests.

JKK Restaurants –

The Jawahar Kala Kendra grounds coffee shop is a well-known gathering place. It serves sandwiches, fritters, and samosas, as well as superb coffee. The café also serves South Indian fare, such as uttapams, dosas, and idlis. The cafeteria is well-known among artists and tourists. Another restaurant on the property, Madhuban, serves some of the same fare, and it is. This restaurant operates using the dhaba model.

Timing and Entry Fees of JKK Jaipur –

The Jawahar Kala Kendra is open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day of the week. Visiting this place doesn’t charge you much.

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