GETTING A FACELIFT: Work progressing at a brisk pace for renovating Ravindra Bharathi in the city. — Photo: Satish.H.

HYDERABAD: A new-look Ravindra Bharathi, the city's oldest address for art and cultural activities, will soon open its doors to the public. Hectic renovation work is on at the auditorium that was closed recently and authorities expect to complete the first phase of work by early January.

The initiative to give a facelift and equip the auditorium with improved facilities was taken up with a sanction of Rs.75 lakhs provided by the Government three months ago. The earlier floor on the stage has been pulled out and a new one costing around Rs. 8 lakhs is being laid while vitrified tile is used to ensure the adjoining area is skid-proof. One of the major works has been to put underground all the wiring and cables that were lying around. "We would like to ensure that nothing is hanging or lying around dangerously," says Arja Srikanth, Director, Department of Culture.

Entry, exit points

The entry and exit points too are being attended to. Apart from making them wider, a barrier-free environment with a ramp to facilitate easy access for the physically challenged is added. Of the four entry points, one is to be earmarked for VVIPs, another for VIPs and the rest for the general public, according to Mr.Srikanth.

The acoustic control facility will be shifted from the pit just below the stage to a glass enclosure along the dais and latest facility for quick change of backdrops in the form of curtains too is being added.

The green rooms inside are getting a new look. A proposal to develop an amphitheatre, food court and a mini-theatre with 400 seats in the vacant bit of land on the premises has been made. "We have sent the proposal to the Union Government and if it is cleared, these can be taken up later," says Mr.Srikanth.

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