Bhavan

/bəˈvɑːn/ noun

Definition

A large building or mansion in Indian architecture, particularly used to refer to important government buildings, institutions, or residences.

Etymology

From Sanskrit भवन (bhavan) meaning 'house,' 'building,' or 'mansion,' derived from the root भू (bhū) meaning 'to be' or 'to dwell.' The term has been adopted into English through Indian English to describe prominent architectural structures.

Kelly Says

Many of India's most important government buildings include 'Bhavan' in their official names—'Rashtrapati Bhavan' (President's Residence), 'Lok Sabha Bhavan' (Parliament Building)—making this an ancient Sanskrit word still embedded in modern Indian governance and architecture.

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