Akbar Bhawan

Akbar Bhawan, located in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, is a notable example of brutalist architecture, designed by Shiv Nath Prasad and Mahendra Raj. Originally inaugurated as the Akbar Hotel in 1972, it showcased a unique blend of contemporary and traditional Indian decor, featuring elements like kalamkari prints and Mithila murals. After its closure as a hotel in 1986, it was repurposed as an office complex for the Ministry of External Affairs and now houses the South Asian University. The building's striking design, characterized by its raw concrete finish and geometric forms, reflects the influence of Le Corbusier and has been both praised and criticized for its aesthetic and functional qualities.