Katha Ujjain: an experiemtial hub showcasing stories myths and craft for Ujjain Madhya Pradesh/

Abstract

Katha Ujjain: An Experiential Hub showcasing Stories, Myths and Craft of Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh is a cultural infrastructure project that responds to the need for a permanent space to celebrate and represent the spiritual and cultural richness of Ujjain. One of India’s most ancient and mythologically significant cities. Despite Ujjain’s deep historical roots, vibrant crafts, and legendary rituals, there exists no spatial platform that actively curates and communicates this identity to its residents, pilgrims, and visitors. The proposal is situated along the banks of the River Shipra near the iconic Ram Ghat, on a relatively contoured site, historically used for fairs, craft exhibitions, and seasonal farming. With Simhastha 2028, a major religious congregation expected to draw millions. The project is also a timely response to growing infrastructural and experiential demands. The design is envisioned not just as a festival-time solution but as a long-term cultural anchor for the city. The built form takes inspiration from the natural topography, mimicking the descending rhythm of the ghats to engage with both landscape and river. It includes a network of exhibition galleries, craft and workshop zones, public courtyards, performance areas, accommodation, and a café, all integrated through clear movement paths and strong visual connections to the sacred riverfront. A key element of the design is the brick jali façade, inspired by local Bhairavgarh printing patterns, merging tradition with climatic responsiveness and visual identity. The zoning strategy responds directly to contour levels and views. The spatial experience follows a narrative sequence, inspired by local myths and rituals, creating a museum-like journey that is interactive, participatory, and immersive. Influenced by projects like Smritivan in Bhuj and Jawahar Kala Kendra, the architecture uses passive design principles — including natural ventilation, shaded walkways, stepped massing, and site-sensitive drainage. Materials are locally sourced, and the form respects seasonal water flows and solar orientation. Rather than imposing a monumental structure, Katha Ujjain seeks to integrate with the existing cultural ecosystem — enhancing, not overpowering, the traditional fairs, rituals, and community uses of the site. It positions itself as a living museum — a space that supports learning, celebration, storytelling, and craft engagement throughout the year. In doing so, the project becomes both an architectural intervention and a cultural catalyst, preserving Ujjain’s legacy while adapting to its contemporary needs, especially in the context of Simhastha and heritage tourism. Keywords: Ujjain, Cultural Center, Experiential Architecture, Mythology, Simhastha, Bhairavgarh Prints, Narrative Space, Heritage Interpretation, Indian Crafts, Pilgrimage Infrastructure.