In a nation regarded as a palimpsest, how does one build? This is the task ahead of architect Bimal Patel and it is against the backdrop of layered history, we analyse the proposal for the Central Vista. While, much of the opinions in public domain about the project revolve around its politics, this article attempts to analyse the proposal as a polemical as well as technical exercise in urban design and architecture – where the program, site, client, budget and time-lines prescribed are regarded as a given. The reading of the proposal reveals a conciliatory approach at the urban level, post-ideological position at the architectural level and literal treatment of the interiors. – Samvad Design Studio