Thirteenth Global Studies Conference

Abstract

The drastic shifts in ideologies in the recent past have resulted in constantly evolving cities that struggle to anchor their identity as they cope with the pace of globalization. The case study considers Bhopal, which was conceived as the capital of the largest state of India. As an administrative centre, the city remains in a constant subjection to state and national policies, harbouring a dynamic public agglomeration. The evolution of Bhopal included an emphasis on resource stability through urban planning and appropriation of Indian modernism through critical regionalism. Visions for Indian cities in the new millennium often misconstrue the role which urbanism played, that of being a source of national integrity in a melting pot of cultural identities. These negative connotations are heavily rooted in identity politics that transgress into the urban order, brewing amidst increasing insecurity from globalisation which is evident through religious revivalist tendencies. Moreover, radical redevelopment strategies aimed at capitalist glorification can push original societal ideals into further obsolescence, negating continuity and adaptation. It is therefore vital that the existing urban structure positively reciprocates with development trends to ensure continuity while preventing the exacerbation of class and identity differences in the transitory process. The paper analyses the aspects of urbanism in Bhopal under changing ideological frameworks and to propose coherent progressive strategies.