The Birla Planetarium is a testament to scientific inquiry and architectural grandeur.
Situated at 96 Jawaharlal Nehru Road, adjacent to the iconic Victoria Memorial Hall, this celestial haven opened its doors on September 29, 1962. Its formal inauguration, graced by the esteemed presence of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the Prime Minister of India at the time, took place on July 2, 1963. Since then, the Planetarium has been a beacon of astronomical education and wonder for visitors of all ages.
However, with its state-of-the-art facilities and captivating presentations, the Planetarium offers an immersive journey through the cosmos, enlightening spectators about the marvels of our universe. Furthermore, one of Kolkata’s cherished landmarks, the Planetarium continues to inspire curiosity and awe, inviting all to explore the mysteries of the cosmos.
1. Overview
The Birla Planetarium in Kolkata stands tall as a testament to the wonders of the cosmos. Nestled on 96 Jawaharlal Nehru Road, it is a stone’s throw from the iconic Victoria Memorial Hall. Since its inauguration on September 29, 1962, by the esteemed Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, and its formal opening on July 2, 1963, this celestial haven has captivated the minds of visitors far and wide.
Sitting proudly on Chowringhee Road, adjacent to landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Planetarium is the largest in Asia and the second largest globally. Fondly referred to as Taramandal, it serves as a beacon of astronomical education and entertainment in the vibrant city of Kolkata.
Visitors are treated to various captivating shows and programs in multiple languages, including Hindi, English, and Bengali. Beyond its celestial spectacles, the Planetarium houses an electronics laboratory and an astronomy gallery boasting a mesmerizing collection of paintings and astronomical models.
2. History
The Birla Planetarium is a testament to India’s pursuit of scientific knowledge and education. Established in September 1962, this architectural marvel was officially inaugurated in July 1963 by the esteemed Indian Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
However, Serving as a beacon of enlightenment, it marked a significant milestone in education, research, and the fostering of scientific curiosity.
Furthermore, being the second Planetarium to grace a Commonwealth nation and the pioneer in India, its significance resonates deeply within the scientific community and beyond. Since its inception, the Planetarium has been a hub of celestial exploration and education.
It offers captivating shows such as ‘Zodiac Signs and Stars,’ unraveling the mysteries of constellations; ‘Journey to Antarctic,’ immersing audiences in unveiling the celestial bodies in our cosmic neighborhood. Moreover, these shows, held at regular intervals, seamlessly blend education with stunning visual experiences.
3. Show Timings
Birla Planetarium, where celestial wonders come alive through a series of intriguing shows tailored for visitors of all ages. Situated in the city’s heart, Planetarium offers an enriching experience with its diverse range of Birla Planetarium, Kolkata show duration conducted throughout the day.
For those fluent in English, two showings are available daily, at 1:30 PM and 6:30 PM, providing an immersive journey through the cosmos in the English language. Similarly, for Hindi-speaking visitors, Shows at the Planetarium are available at 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM, ensuring everyone can partake in the astronomical adventure.
Additionally, Bengali-speaking audiences can delight in shows at 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM, providing a unique perspective in their native language. There is no ticket price of Birla Planetarium, Kolkata, an adventure in Kolkata.
To further enhance the experience, special showings are arranged on Sundays and holidays, featuring Hindi shows at 10:30 AM, and Bengali shows at 11:30 AM. These additional sessions cater to those seeking an early exploration of the universe.
4. How To Reach
Birla Planetarium stands as a beacon of astronomical knowledge and fascination right in the heart of the bustling city. Transitioning to the journey to this celestial haven, follow these simple directions. Accessing the Planetarium is a breeze.
Situated approximately 18 kilometers from the airport, hop into a cab and journey along the VIP road, soaking in the sights as you head towards the mysteries of the universe.
For those arriving by train, fear not! The Planetarium is a mere 5 kilometers from the railway station. Further, Hail a taxi and cruise along Acharya Jagdish Chandra Bose Marg, where the cosmos eagerly awaits your arrival.
5. Architecture
The Birla Planetarium stands as a marvel not only for its captivating astronomical displays but also for its remarkable architecture, drawing inspiration from the grandeur of the Sanchi Stupa. At first glance, its majestic dome steals the spotlight, radiating a brilliant white glow that can be admired even from afar. This dome boasts a diameter of 23 meters, providing ample space to accommodate up to 688 visitors, who are treated to an immersive celestial experience within its confines.
Central to the Planetarium’s architectural splendor is its Carl Zeiss planetarium projector, which seamlessly integrates with the dome’s design, bringing to life stunning visuals during the various shows. The Planetarium’s layout resembles a mini-Colosseum, with strategic adventure places in Kolkata columns adorning its circumference, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
6. Birla Planetarium Kolkata Address
This iconic institution is a beacon of astronomical wonder in West Bengal’s bustling capital city, situated at Paul’s Cathedral on 96 Jawaharlal Nehru Road, adjacent to St. Cathedral Rd.
The Birla Planetarium Kolkata is more than just a building; it’s a gateway to the mysteries of the cosmos. With its state-of-the-art facilities and captivating presentations, visitors of all ages can journey through the stars, planets, and galaxies. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious novice, the planetarium offbeat places near Kolkata have various shows and exhibitions catering to every level of interest and understanding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Birla Planetarium stands as a celestial oasis in the heart of Kolkata, captivating visitors with its blend of astronomical wonders and architectural splendor. Since its inauguration in 1962, this iconic institution has served as a beacon of scientific education and exploration. Moreover, it offers immersive shows and exhibits that enlighten and inspire audiences of all ages.
However, with its innovative design and state-of-the-art facilities, including the largest planetarium dome in Asia, the Planetarium continues to reign as a premier place for astronomy and space exploration enthusiasts. Moreover, visitors step through its doors, they embark on a journey through the cosmos, gaining insights into the mysteries of the universe that leave them both informed and enchanted. For those seeking to broaden their horizons and gaze upon the wonders of the night sky, the Planetarium remains an essential destination, inviting all to discover the marvels of the cosmos firsthand.
FAQ
Q. What makes Birla Planetarium unique?
A. Birla Planetarium, erected in 1988 in honor of the visionary B. M. Birla, is India’s pinnacle of modern planetariums. Its distinguishing feature lies in its innovative design, boasting a specially perforated hemispherical aluminum dome. This structure facilitates captivating cosmic shows and provides visitors with a virtual night sky tour, making it a must-visit destination for astronomy and space exploration enthusiasts.
Q. Which is the largest Planetarium in India?
A. The Birla Planetarium in Kolkata proudly holds the title of the largest Planetarium in Asia and the second largest globally. Its grandeur and reputation as one of India’s most renowned planetariums make it a premier destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the wonders of the cosmos.
Q. What are the timings for the 3D shows at Birla Planetarium Chennai?
A. Birla Planetarium in Chennai offers captivating 3D shows in both English and Tamil, catering to a diverse audience. The Birla Planetarium Kolkata show timings for English-language shows are 10:45 AM, 1:15 PM, and 3:45 PM, while for Tamil-language shows, visitors can catch them at 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM. However, these scheduled presentations provide visitors with ample opportunities to experience the marvels of the universe in stunning three-dimensional detail.
Q. What is the current show being featured at Birla Planetarium?
A. Presently, visitors to Birla Planetarium can indulge in the mesmerizing spectacle titled ‘The Biography of the Universe.’ Supported by the esteemed European Southern Observatory, this captivating showcase delves into the origins and evolution of the cosmos, offering audiences a profound journey through space and time. With its immersive storytelling and cutting-edge visuals, this show promises to inspire awe and ignite the imagination of all who attend
