Chandigarh admn mulling ban on weddings at Rock Garden

The UT administration is planning to impose a ban on weddings at the Rock Garden, to prevent wear and tear of the iconic structure.

The UT administration is planning to impose a ban on weddings at the Rock Garden, to prevent wear and tear of the iconic structure.

The venue has hosted wedding ceremonies for almost two decades, with functions being organised at phase III of the premises.UT adviser Vijay Kumar Dev told HT that the ban was under consideration and that formal orders have yet to be passed.

"I have asked for the records as to under what circumstances were marriages allowed to be held at this place," Dev said.

The adviser said the administration got complaints that the parties were causing "a lot of wear and tear" to the garden that has hundreds of stone structures.

"The security and protection of the garden is our foremost concern," Dev said. "We need to send out a clear message that Rock Garden is a treasure of art in the city and not a picnic spot."

President of UK-based Nek Chand foundation, John Maizels, also expressed concern about wedding organised inside the Rock Garden.

Maizels said the issue has been taken up with the administration and the garden will no longer be rented out for wedding parties.

The adviser also said the administration is working to see who should be entrusted with Nek Chand's legacy.
"We are examining this issue and have got several representations and suggestions from the society and prominent city residents, besides the advice of the late Nek Chand himself before his death," Dev said.

The adviser added that focus was on carrying forward the legendary artists' vision and preserve phase III of the garden.

"We will complete his vision and immortalize his legacy in the best possible manner. We are working out modalities to preserve the workplace and Nek Chand's tools," Dev said.