Unity Mall to showcase India's diverse products and culture

Time of India

03-05-2025

Visakhapatnam:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
on Friday laid foundation for the construction of
Unity Mall
in
Visakhapatnam
at a cost of about Rs 172 crore. Tenders were recently finalised for the project and it is estimated to be completed by March 2026.
About five acres of land has been identified along the beach road in Visakhapatnam, near the Rama Naidu studio, which connects Visakhapatnam and Bheemili. Union govt is going to develop the project with Rs 172 crore.
The proposed mall is expected to serve as a marketplace, where the 'one district, one product', geographical indications (GI), and a variety of handicrafts, handlooms, and local products will converge. According to the detailed project report (DPR), 36 commercial spaces will be designated, each representing a state or a union territory. These spaces will showcase GI products specific to each region, with architectural styles reflecting the heritage of the respective states or territories.
Similarly, the mall will feature 26 retail stores allocated for each district of Andhra Pradesh, promoting local handloom and handicraft products. For example, from Srikakulam district, primary products such as Ponduru Khadi sarees, dhotis, and shirting will be highlighted, while Budithi bell and brass metal crafts, jute work, and cashew kernels will be secondary products.
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The mall's design allocates 40% of its floor space to retail. The ground floor includes retail spaces, restrooms, administrative sections, and a service core, with a double-height ceiling at the entrance adding visual appeal. This design extends to the first floor, maintaining continuity in layout.
On the second floor, additional amenities include a children's play area, a crèche for new parents, and a gaming centre to attract younger visitors. A restaurant is also incorporated on this floor. The third floor features a museum, a convention-cum-auditorium for corporate events and social gatherings, and a theatre for movie screenings.
According to officials, the project design aims to build upon the natural and cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh. "The concept of this Unity Mall in Visakhapatnam revolves around uniting the cultural facets of Andhra Pradesh and other states, bringing together the Indian cultural palette and celebrating
cultural diversity
. Vizag's Unity Mall follows a circular planning concept to foster unity and social interaction," said an official.
The third-floor terrace will house a beach-view food court, with an auditorium situated five metres above. The innovative roof design is expected to complement the overall architectural concept.
Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the Unity Mall initiative in the 2023-24 budget, aimed at promoting local products and cultural diversity across India. Several states have been sanctioned to develop these malls.