HERALD: What assistance can be given by Charles Correa Foundation in reference to the current state of the Kala Academy open-air auditorium?

Nondita Correa: We could work with the Kala Academy at many levels, including being the prime consultant for the restoration, but we must know what the problem is first. We have access to many people who have worked with Correa for many years. Kamal Hadker, who we have been in contact with, has been the structural engineer for many of Correa’s buildings. He is an excellent and highly regarded engineer. There are architects too, and conservation architects we can consult with. I too, have worked with Correa for over 20 years. With a good team, we could help restore the building and develop a strategy that looks at the structure holistically. As we understand it, all the repair work done so far has been patchwork, which in many cases could further weaken the building. But as I said, we don’t know much as we have not been privy to the discussion, but we definitely don’t think we need to demolish any part of it.

HERALD: How can the foundation work towards restoration of the open-air auditorium?

Nondita Correa: Again, we have to see the condition of the open air auditorium.

HERALD: Will assistance be at the planning stage or will it also be during implementation?

Nondita Correa: It could be both. It’s difficult to say without even being briefed about the problems or seeing the structural reports.

HERALD: Has the foundation taken up such projects before?

Nondita Correa: No, but as I said, we could put in an excellent team, who would be very capable of doing this. As the Charles Correa Foundation we see it as part of our mandate to preserve Correa’s legacy, and this is an important building in his career.

HERALD: What was your reaction on hearing that this creation of your father could be demolished?

Nondita Correa:It should not be done. You cannot rebuild a great building, so we should find a way to restore it and make it structurally sound.