Restored Keshavrao Bhosale Natyagruha Theatre Inaugurated in Kolhapur

The Keshavrao Bhosale Natyagruha in Kolhapur was originally built in 1915 and is Maharashtra’s oldest auditorium. After years of standing, succumbing to natural forces and crumbling under its own weight, the historic venue has been restored to its former glory by the Kolhapur Municipal Corporation (KMC), architect Surat Jadhav with acoustic along with AV consulting by Big69 boss and BAJAAO founder Ashutosh Pande.

The auditorium is widely considered the birthplace of Maharashtran theatre. The structure itself has been restored to its original state with added state-of-the-art acoustics from Armstrong and a Bose sound system with eco-friendly LED lighting (stage and ambient) and hand-painted murals on the side and back walls.

It’s really encouraging to see people taking initiative to revive architectural treasures and cultural venues like this. The auditorium should be seeing a lot of music, art and theatre shortly and we’re keen to see what the year will bring. Ashutosh hopes to tackle “art-deco treasure” Liberty Cinema next, with the support of the BMC.