India, Oct. 28 -- The ambitious Rs.22-crore Kalagram cultural complex, built by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) near Pu La Deshpande Garden on Sinhagad Road, is facing serious questions over its viability after opening to the public. The sprawling Delhi Haat-style facility, spread across 2.5 acres, features a 605-seat amphitheatre, an 850 sq ft stage, nine food stalls, and parking for 100 cars and 400 two-wheelers. Yet, its potential as a cultural and tourist hub is overshadowed by daunting financial projections.

A recent assessment by the PMC's Rent and Security Deposit Committee pegged the annual rent at a staggering Rs.51.37 crore, based on the current registration-ready reckoner rate of the state government. With no tenant or op...