The Rs.22 crore multimedia and laser show project, inaugurated at Nagpur’s Ambazari Garden, has sparked controversy as the garden has been closed to the public for over five years.
Despite promises of turning the space into an entertainment and leisure hub, citizens are questioning the project’s purpose as access to the garden remains restricted.
As per the local media report senior scribe Anjaya Anparthi, who provided insights into the issue. In 2017, the State Government transferred the management of Ambazari Garden from the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). By November 2019, MTDC further handed over control of the garden to a private entity, Garuda Amusement Nagpur Pvt. Ltd.
However, instead of revitalizing the space, Garuda Amusement unexpectedly closed the garden, restricting public access. Meanwhile, the Nagpur Metropolitan Region Development Authority (NMRDA) launched a ₹22 crore laser show and multimedia project on a 2.25-acre plot near Ambazari Lake, leaving the public puzzled as the main garden remained off-limits.
Tensions escalated when Garuda Amusement demolished the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Cultural Centre, triggering outrage among devotees. Although the government later approved Rs. 10 crore for the memorial’s reconstruction, the damage had already sparked deep resentment within the community.
The controversy over Ambazari Garden’s management has intensified, with growing questions about Garuda Amusement’s continued involvement. Citizens are demanding clarity: Why does the private operator remain in control? When will the iconic garden reopen to the public? Frustration is mounting among senior citizens, children, and the wider community over the lack of progress and transparency.
As the Rs. 22 crore laser show project moves forward, concerns are mounting that it could be pointless without restoring public access to Ambazari Garden. For now, Nagpur’s residents await justice, hoping the space will soon be returned to its intended role as a hub of recreation and culture.