Lunchbox is a film that depicts the great landmarks in Mumbai and also illustrates the factors that led to the rise of the city. Even though Mumbai is a historic city, it has withstood the times and stands a region that has one of the most remarkable buildings and an architectural masterpiece in Asia due to constant renovations. On that account, Mumbai can be termed as a glamourous survivor since constant renovations of the city have enabled it to maintain a glorious acoustic that reflects the symbolic meaning that it holds.
The film places emphasis on depicting the structures in Mumbai’s neighborhood of Bandra. The region has a European feel due to the reconstruction of its structures. The refurbishment and reconstruction of Bandra was a large and world-class project. Undoubtedly, the neighborhood has been perceived as one of Mumbai’s great symbols since its construction. Based on its reputation, the rehabilitation of the neighborhood was constantly enquired by both the public and state officials. Indeed, architectural masterpieces are always under close scrutiny when being renovated.
As demonstrated in the film, the story of the refurbishment and reconstruction of Bandra goes back to nearly the initial years of its existence. At the time the current reconstruction project started, it was estimated that between 30 and 70 percent of the neighborhood was in a hazardous state (Gupta, Appel, and, Anand 1). This makes reconstruction a multifaceted project. Different renovation schemes were proposed for the structures; from a total reconstruction to a superficial overhaul if the existing structure. In the end, the project which was selected and authorized by architects, and renowned figures in the city, envisioned restoration of the public spaces, as well as the addition of novel features. Moreover, as a safeguarded area, the historical appearance of the buildings had to be maintained to preserve their glamourous nature.
Lunchbox gives insights into the process that goes into the restoration of structures. The initial years of the project were dedicated to a comprehensive examination of the actual building, state of its foundation and walls, and assessment of its position in space to determine the most suitable way to return it to its glory days. Indeed, the restoration of such structures is an intricate and expansive process that takes time and needs deep architectural expertise (Schwenkel 1). After many preliminary examinations were completed, the huge and extremely run-down Bandra neighborhood shifted from temporary reinforcements to a permanent foundation and wide restoration project deployed in the neighborhood. In the preceding years, a record amount of work was realized in the reconstruction and renovation of the neighborhood. Over three thousand experts worked on the neighborhood on a daily basis, most of whom were restores. Such a large number of experts demonstrates the expansive work that went into the redevelopment of the Theater.
Lunchbox illustrates the reconstruction of Bandra was a challenging task that required the formulation of novel construction ideas. On top of the restoration of Bandra’s historical appearance both outside and in, the designers of the project also encountered the challenge of facilitating it with additional working areas; this was effectively done by the development of extra space. A similarly key task was the need of interweaving thorough restoration work in the public spaces of the buildings Such a move would enable Bandra to preserve its rustic appearance whilst still keeping up with advancements in this modern age.
The renovation has enabled the Bandra to a large extent regain its authentic historical appearance. Each restored or reproduced feature of the neighborhood was a key goal of a special project, for which discrete documentation was collected using on-site and several archival studies (Anand 1). Indeed, comprehensive research was a key part of the restoration process to enable the building to regains its old splendor. Further, the renovations have enabled the neighborhood to regain its original beauty.
The cinematographer of Lunchbox depicts the acoustics of Bandra. The acoustics add to the neighborhood’s amazing beauty. Special focus was trained on the restoration of the legendary acoustics and international professionals conducted extensive research studies and ensured that each technical recommendation was done to the exact detail. The historic theater in the neighborhood Theater is now comprised of seven two-tier descending and ascending platforms. The platforms are dynamic since their positions can be easily shifted. As such, the center stage can become stepped, raked, or horizontal (Gupta, Appel, and, Anand 1). The stage, as well as the backstage section, can be interjoined to create a stage space with outstanding depth. Novel stage equipment, controlled remotely by a computer enables the optimum use of lighting, visual, and sound effects. Advanced rigs have been put up for the stationing of lanterns, acoustics, and special effects equipment. Further, the orchestra pit has been given additional space under the forestage (Gupta, Appel, and, Anand 1). The acoustics of the neighborhood have been remodeled to match and reinforce the reputation attached to the venue.
The type of architecture in Bandar is Corinthian The Corinthian order is the final creation of the three main classical orders of Roman and ancient Greek architecture. The term “Corinthian” refers to a style of ornate columns developed in ancient Greece (Loyalka 160). On that note, the Corinthian style is more elaborate and multifaceted than the Ionic and Doric Orders which preceded it. The top section of the capital of a Corinthian-style column has extravagant ornamentation developed to look like flowers and leaves. It is suggested that the intricate Corinthian column was developed to derive the best out of the two previous orders. Due to its extravagance, Corinthian columns are rarely used in the typical porch columns for the normal home. The style is more adapted for Greek revival public architecture like government buildings. To that extent, it is fitting that defining public buildings in Bandra adapted this style. The features of Corinthian columns include; (1) grooved (fluted) shafts; (2) The tops of each shaft or capitals decorated with flowers and leaves as well as small scrolls; (3) capital ornaments that protrude outward like bells, implying a sense of height; (3) the height of the capitals make them proportionately longer and slender than Ionic columns (Loyalka 165). Buildings in Bandra take on some of the characteristics thus firmly placing it as a Corinthian style architecture
The renovation and reconstruction of Bandra was a world-class endeavor tailored to make it a modern marvel. Such a feat has been realized without any alteration to the external appearance of Bandra. Therefore, the Theater has gained a desperately needed novel space, Indeed, the public hall of the neighborhood is now a multi-functional area that can be used in diverse ways. It is comprised of five main platforms; (1) the central platform makes the stage; (2) two platforms to the left and right of the central platform can be utilized either to increase the stage’s size or as audience space; (3) the two remaining platforms create the auditorium’s main space. Each platform can be raised to the foyer level to develop a space for formal receptions. Aside from the concert hall and its extra areas, the rest of the underground area under the hall square accommodates a significant number of services, staff, and technical rooms. Therefore, whereas the Bandra maintains its old charms, the building has been reconstructed to possess modern qualities that make it a diverse venue. The reconstruction project has revamped the location where Bandra is placed. Indeed, the project included the renovation of a safeguarded architectural marvels developed in the nineteenth century.
Lunchbox reveals how the modern concept of architecture and technology can be used to restore the glory and symbolism of traditional historic buildings. The examination of this restoration process has revealed that Bandra can be termed as a glamourous survivor since constant renovations of the buildings have enabled it to maintain a glorious acoustic that reflects the symbolic meaning that it holds. The renovation of a key neighborhood in Mumbai was a momentous event in the lives of a large team of coordinated professionals who operate at the highest level. The people who took part in the project were specialists with unique qualifications whose great endeavor and hours of labor will earn them the eternal appreciation of people residing in the area. Indeed, the experts have managed an amazing feat that is rarely achieved in this modern age. Due to tom technological advancements, experts usually sort to tear down old dilapidated buildings rather than reconstructing them. In this case, the experts engaged in deep research to devise a way they could restore Bandra to its old charm. They have managed to do this in an impressive and elaborative manner that will act as a benchmark for the industry.
Works Cited
Anand, Nikhil. “Accretion.” The Infrastructure Toolbox.” (2015).
Batra, Ritesh. The Lunchbox. Film. 2015
Gupta, A., H. Appel, and N. Anand. “Introduction.” The Infrastructure Toolbox. (2015).
Loyalka, Michelle. Eating bitterness: stories from the front lines of China’s great urban migration. Univ of California Press, 2012.
Schwenkel, Christina. “Sense.” The Infrastructure Toolbox. (2015).