Curtain falls on US-India cultural bridge as Kennedy Center shutters

The Kennedy Center's board voted on Tuesday to close the main building for a renovation project championed by President Donald J. Trump, according to sources. The decision comes hours after a federal judge ruled that the center could not put Trump's name on the building. The closure is driven by water intrusion and physical deterioration of the center's plant, leading to a partial ceiling collapse.

Trump's attempt to name the building has sparked a legal and political battle. The resolution filed by the board lists ways Trump could be legally and appropriately recognized on the building, as only Congress can change its name. The closure timeline has not been confirmed yet. The renovation project aims to address issues such as corrosion and rehabilitating iconic theaters and the Grand Foyer.

Trump ally and board member Paolo Zampolli has outlined a luxury vision for the space, including expanding the outdoor park to create a concert hub and building a marina. The future of the center under Trump remains uncertain due to the ongoing legal challenge to his takeover. Ticket sales have reportedly plummeted after the board voted to name the center after him.