NBCC and NFDC Join Forces to Revamp Siri Fort Auditorium into State-of-the-Art Cultural Hub

New Delhi, July, In a major step towards redefining India’s cultural landscape, NBCC (India) Limited and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to redevelop the iconic Siri Fort Auditorium Complex into a world-class, future-ready cultural and cinematic hub.

Located in South Delhi and spread across 5.5 acres, the Siri Fort Auditorium has served as a cornerstone of India’s artistic and cinematic expression since its inception in 1982, built for the ASIAD Games. With four auditoriums and a combined seating capacity of over 2,600, the venue has hosted international film festivals, musical events, and policy dialogues for over four decades.

The proposed transformation will give the complex a modern architectural and functional overhaul, expanding its built-up area to approximately 20,000 square metres. The redesign will maintain a maximum height of 26 metres and adhere to a Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 1.2. The upgraded facility will meet global sustainability benchmarks, aligning with LEED, IGBC, and GRIHA standards, reinforcing India’s commitment to green and climate-resilient infrastructure.

The revamped Siri Fort complex is envisioned as a multi-functional cultural district, featuring distinct zones including:
• Performance and Theatre District for large-scale concerts, plays, and cultural festivals;
• Indian Film & Media Hub for screenings, exhibitions, and film heritage storytelling;
• Convention and Dialogue Forum for seminars, summits, and academic discourse;
• Arts and Culture Zone with curated installations and exhibitions;
• Culinary Plaza highlighting regional Indian cuisines;
• Cultural Bazaar and Retail Zone promoting artisanal products and literature;
• Immersive Heritage Gallery showcasing India’s cultural history through digital and interactive technologies.

The upgraded infrastructure will incorporate advanced features such as kinetic stage designs, immersive AV systems, smart lighting, universal accessibility, and high-speed connectivity, positioning the venue to rival international cultural landmarks.

NBCC will lead the project as Project Management Consultant (PMC), responsible for comprehensive execution, including master planning, engineering, design, approvals, and construction. The redevelopment will proceed on a deposit work basis, with NFDC reimbursing actual project costs along with applicable PMC charges.

A Joint Empowered Committee, headed by an NFDC-nominated officer and including representatives from both organisations, will supervise project progress, design validation, and implementation oversight.

The transformation of Siri Fort Auditorium marks a significant milestone in India’s cultural and infrastructural development. Once completed, the venue is expected to emerge as a dynamic platform for creative convergence, solidifying its legacy as the cultural heartbeat of the nation’s capital.