A long-standing dream of artists, theatre enthusiasts, and cultural organizations in Vijayanagara district is set to become a reality with the foundation stone laying ceremony of a world-class district auditorium in Hosapete by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday. The ambitious project, being constructed under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS), will come up on a three-acre site near the Deputy Commissioner’s office at an estimated cost of ₹5 crore.
The auditorium is designed not merely as a performance venue but as a cultural landmark that reflects the architectural grandeur and heritage of Hampi and the Vijayanagara Empire. The foundation stone laying ceremony was attended by MP E. Tukaram, Vijayanagara MLA H.R. Gaviyappa, Deputy Commissioner Kavitha S. Mannikeri, senior district officials, public representatives, artists, and members of various cultural organizations. The dignitaries hailed the project as a major boost to the district’s cultural infrastructure and an important initiative to preserve and promote the rich legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Speaking on the occasion, officials highlighted that the project aims to provide a dedicated platform for cultural, literary, theatrical, and artistic activities in the region. For several years, artists and cultural organizations had been demanding a modern auditorium capable of hosting large-scale events and performances.
The proposed facility will have a seating capacity of 620, including 500 seats in the main hall and 120 seats in the balcony. The design draws inspiration from the historic architecture of Hampi and Vijayanagara, creating a unique blend of heritage and modern infrastructure.
Beyond the main auditorium, the complex will include several state-of-the-art facilities such as an art gallery, library, a 48-seat mini theatre, rehearsal and training halls, a recording studio, a dubbing studio, and office space for the Department of Kannada and Culture. Special provisions have also been made for visiting artists through nine accommodation rooms and two green rooms.
Adding to the cultural infrastructure, a 300-seat open-air theatre will also be developed within the premises, enabling the hosting of folk performances, cultural festivals, and community events.
As part of the broader development initiative, a landscaped park will be created adjacent to the auditorium at a cost of ₹99 lakh under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme of the State Bank of India. The Finance Minister also inaugurated the park project during her visit.
Officials believe the heritage-themed auditorium will become a major cultural hub for North Karnataka, providing a world-class venue for classical music concerts, dance performances, theatre productions, literary gatherings, government functions, and private events.
The project is expected to strengthen Hosapete’s identity as the gateway to Hampi while preserving and showcasing the rich artistic and architectural legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire for future generations. Once completed, the auditorium is expected to serve as a landmark cultural destination, fostering creativity, talent, and community engagement while celebrating the glorious heritage of Vijayanagara.