Art and Culture Minister, Govind Gaude, stated that the much-awaited reopening of Kala Academy is scheduled for November 10th. The minister announced that the venue is fully prepared to host the International Film Festival of India (IFFI). Chief Minister Pramod Sawant is scheduled to inaugrate the reopening at 10 am on the said date.
Gaude highlighted the extensive three-year-long renovation efforts, stating, “The work on Kala Academy has been ongoing for the past three years, and it’s finally ready for inauguration.”
He revealed that apart from the open-air auditorium, the entire Kala Academy premises will be accessible. Gaude emphasized that the infrastructure is in place, particularly highlighting the Black Box as the focal point due to its exceptional facilities.
To ensure the functionality and safety of the premises, tenders for various works such as air conditioning, sound systems, CCTV cameras, and fire extinguishers have been initiated by the public works department. However, Gaude noted that certain specialized renovation and retrofitting works, amounting to 72 in number, are not covered under the CPWD Works Manual and hence remain pending.
Gaude mentioned a significant structural alteration, reducing the thickness of the auditorium slab to a maximum of 15 cms, allowing for improved functionality.
Discussing the Black Box, Gaude emphasized the restoration of its original design resembling the traditional Goan Rajangan. He mentioned alterations in the seating areas for audiences and addressed prior issues such as leakages and electrical problems, assuring their resolution.
