Monument – Amdavad ni Gufa, Ahmedabad
Built by –  B. V Doshi
Built in – 1992

Amdavad Ni Gufa was designed to demonstrate the collaboration between an artist and an architect. It is an underground art gallery in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Earlier known as Husain-Doshi ni Gufa, it was designed by renowned architect Balkrishna Doshi and exhibits the works of the celebrated artist Maqbool Fida Husain.

Set adjacent to the Cept University, this museum is a one-of-a-kind structure. From exterior, the Gufa looks more like a work of art, a sculpture of domed shells with black serpentine imagery snaking across the surfaces.

The cave-like underground structure has a roof made of multiple interconnected domes covered with mosaic tiles. The irregular tree-like columns support the domes. The gallery is a unique juxtaposition of art and architecture.

The museum spaces set below the ground contain no straight wall, a surprise when the function of the structure was to house Husain’s paintings. The entry to the area is through a staircase partly hidden through a circular door.

The porcelain mosaic tiles reflect sunlight and mitigate heat. It covers the tortoise shell-inspired roof, which shelters the undulating cave-like interiors below. The gallery has facilities for painting exhibitions and projecting films. The gardens and a cafe are located on the ground floor.

Photo Courtesy – www.pinterest.com