Vidhana
Soudha, the stately building in the 'Neo-Dravidian' style, is located
on Dr.Ambedkar Veddi road at the northern end of Cubbon Park. It houses
the Secretariat, the State legislature and several other Government offices
in Karnataka. This arresting monument built between 1951 and 1956, spreading
over a total area of 5,50,505 square feet, consists of four floors. The
conception, execution and completion of this royal edifice is credited
to Shri Kengal Hanumanthaiah, the former Chief Minister of Mysore.
The granite structure has distinct ornamental motifs, woodwork and stone
carvings with chiselled geometric designs and floral patterns. Four domes
are located at the four corners and another bigger and taller dome in
front of the building. The gleaming white domes, pillars and archways,
resemble the architectural pattern of Mysore’s old palaces. The main entrance
of Vidhana Soudha is overshadowed by the four headed lion on top of the
dome in front. The massive sandalwood door of the Cabinet room is a spectacular
feature of this imposing building. The entire building is illuminated
on Sundays and public holidays. Prior permission is necessary to visit
the interior of Vidhana Soudha.