EXPLORATION OF

ARCHITECTURAL JOURNALISM
IN INDIA

Drashti B. Patel
153551050008

Submitted in fulfilment of the

requirements for the Bachelor’s
degree of
Architecture

LAXMI INSTITUTE OF
ARCHITECTURE
Gujarat Technological University
 Abstract

Architectural writing and criticism have been into headlines of architectural fraternity for a
while. However, a new term was introduced to these as the terms and ways of expression of
architecture changed which is known as Architectural Journalism.
The perspective of reading and writing architecture changed!

Writing about architecture started with the fact of creating awareness about the profession,
experience of spaces etc. When the country was at the edge of development, Indian
Institute of architects and MARG magazine took various efforts to communicate to the regular people.
Despite of various efforts and wide array of architectural works being showcased on various platforms through
different media forms, the evolution of architectural content towards the public domain has also changed. Moreover,
it is widely spread in architectural community itself only. Maybe it has lost its path from the idea it was started.

By adding the word JOURNALISM, how far the architectural world has changed and up to what extent? The
current trend of architectural communication has been profitable to the community and up to what extent?
Acknowledgements
Abstract...................................................................................................................................................................i

Table of Content..................................................................................................................................................i

Statement of Original Authorship...................................................................................................................i

Acknowlegments...................................................................................................................................................i

CHAPTER 1: Introduction
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Aim
1.2 Objective
1.3 Methodology
1.4 Scope of Work
1.5 Limitation
1.6 Methodology

CHAPTER 2: Background
2.1 Background
2.1.1 What is Journalism?
2.1.2 History of World Journalism
2.1.3 History of Indian Journalism
2.1.4 History of Architectural Journalism
2.2 Significance
2.2.1 Overview of Architectural Journalism

CHAPTER 4: LITERATURE REVIEW

CHAPTER 3: ARTICLES
3.1 Student and Juries: A fathomless connection
3.2 Unseen Places
3.3 Current Controversy of in architecture
3.4 Women in architecture

CHAPTER 5:
CHAPTER 6: ANALYSIS AND CONCLUSION

Bibliography
List of Figures
Chapter 1:Introduction

1.1 Introduction
1.2 Keywords
1.3 Aim
1.4 Objective
1.5 Methodology
1.6 Scope of Work
1.7 Limitation
1.8 Methodology

|9
1 - Introduction
1.2 KEYWORDS: Literature writing 1.8 Methodology : 1. By studying and analysing
Journalism the basics of journalism and how it was introduced in
Architecture architecture.
Architectural writing 2. Documenting the evolution of architectural journal-
Architectural criticism ism post independence in India.
3. How architectural writing and architectural journal-
ism are being practiced.
4. Writing articles on core topics in architecture by
1.3 AIM: To study and enquire the role of architectural interviewing different category of user and user experi-
journalism and criticism its impact on architecture. ences.
5. Analysing the methods and how it bought change in
perception of architecture.
1.4 OBJECTIVE: 1. How architectural writing/ archi- 6. By interviewing architects in general and observing
tectural journalism has evolved in past years with change in their comments. Their statements can be used to study
media trends. how architectural journalism has impacted architecture.
2. How the content has changed over the period of time. 7. Studying architectural journalism through wiriting
3. Understanding the architectural text/journalism by its journalistic articles of different generes and uploading
paradigms. them on digital public platforms.

1.5 SCOPE: 1. The study can be used to understand aspects

of architectural journalism.
2. Analyse and study mainstream architectural writing over
the period of time.
3. Stating the examples.
4.By practising journalistic writing through different types of
artices through digital media.

1.6 LIMITATION: The scope of study is limited from

post-independence the recent day and is limited up to
architectural writing in Indian Subcontinent only.

1.7 NEED OF STUDY: 1. With the advent of

technology, the evolution of types of media, audience and
architecture has taken place. These changes should be
documented.
2. Articles in magazines, online portals are mostly about a
single person’s perspective towards the space structure and
design. At the fullest only the basic pros and cons are dis-
cussed which are related to technology, building material,
social crisis that affects architecture etc. It needs to be viewed
from a third person’s eye as well.
3. This study is relevant because over the period of years
we have witnessed research being done on architecture and
design but none has been done on the journalism aspect of it.
Through this research I am trying to trace the journey and
identify the trends of architectural journalism over the years.

10| |11
Chapter 2: Background

2.1 Journalism and media concepts

2.2 Media functions and their role in society
2.3 Types and level of communication and its
means
2.4 Journalism and media in 21st century
2.5 Overview of Architectural Journalism in 21st
century

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2.1.1 What is Journalism?

Journalism in its most basic sense is the process of gathering Feature Writing
and presenting factual information. This information Feature writing provides scope, depth, and interpretation
is used to transmit a story to the public and to create a of trends, events, topics or people. Features aim not only
record for archival purposes. This can be by print, digital, to thoroughly explore a topic by conducting interviews
broadcast, photography, or through alternative medias. with numerous experts or the key people involved, but to
offer a previously unseen perspective on an event, issue,
or person. Feature writing commonly wins prestigious
Investigative awards when it manages to achieve this goal. Features
Investigative journalism aims to uncover the truth about usually have the highest word count of all journalism types.
a particular subject, person, or event. While investigative
journalism is based on the basic principle underlying all
journalism-verification and accurate presentation of facts-
investigative reporters must often work with uncooperative or
recalcitrant sources who do not wish to divulge information.
Renowned investigative journalism, such as Bob Woodward
and Carl Bernstein’s uncovering of the Watergate scandal,
can upend major institutions significantly influence public life.

News
News journalism is straightforward. Facts are relayed
without flourishes or interpretation. A typical news story
often constitutes a headline with just enough explanation
to orient the reader. News stories lack the depth of a feature
story, or the questioning approach of an investigative
story. Rather, they relay facts, events and information to
society in a straightforward, accurate and unbiased manner.

Reviews Source- author generated

Reviews are partly opinion and partly fact based. The review needs
to accomplish two things: one, accurately describe or identify
the subject being reviewed, and two, provide an intelligent and
informed opinion of the subject, based on research and experience.

Columns
Columns are based primarily on the personality of the
author, allowing him or her to write about subjects in
a personal style. Column writers can take a humorous
approach, or specialise in a particular subject area or topic.
It’s important for columnists to develop their own voice
that is recognisable by their readership. Columnists can
interpret events or issues or write about their own personal
experiences or thoughts. Columns are usually published weekly.

Source- https://www.openschoolofjournalism.com/resources/about-journalism/journalism-and-media-types Source- https://www.openschoolofjournalism.com/resources/about-journalism/journalism-and-media-types

14| |15
2.1.1 What is Journalism?

Journalism in its most basic sense is the process of gathering Feature Writing
and presenting factual information. This information Feature writing provides scope, depth, and interpretation
is used to transmit a story to the public and to create a of trends, events, topics or people. Features aim not only
record for archival purposes. This can be by print, digital, to thoroughly explore a topic by conducting interviews
broadcast, photography, or through alternative medias. with numerous experts or the key people involved, but to
offer a previously unseen perspective on an event, issue,
or person. Feature writing commonly wins prestigious
Investigative awards when it manages to achieve this goal. Features
Investigative journalism aims to uncover the truth about usually have the highest word count of all journalism types.
a particular subject, person, or event. While investigative
journalism is based on the basic principle underlying all
journalism-verification and accurate presentation of facts-
investigative reporters must often work with uncooperative or
recalcitrant sources who do not wish to divulge information.
Renowned investigative journalism, such as Bob Woodward
and Carl Bernstein’s uncovering of the Watergate scandal,
can upend major institutions significantly influence public life.

News
News journalism is straightforward. Facts are relayed
without flourishes or interpretation. A typical news story
often constitutes a headline with just enough explanation
to orient the reader. News stories lack the depth of a feature
story, or the questioning approach of an investigative
story. Rather, they relay facts, events and information to
society in a straightforward, accurate and unbiased manner.

Reviews Source- author generated

Reviews are partly opinion and partly fact based. The review needs
to accomplish two things: one, accurately describe or identify
the subject being reviewed, and two, provide an intelligent and
informed opinion of the subject, based on research and experience.

Columns
Columns are based primarily on the personality of the
author, allowing him or her to write about subjects in
a personal style. Column writers can take a humorous
approach, or specialise in a particular subject area or topic.
It’s important for columnists to develop their own voice
that is recognisable by their readership. Columnists can
interpret events or issues or write about their own personal
experiences or thoughts. Columns are usually published weekly.

Source- https://www.openschoolofjournalism.com/resources/about-journalism/journalism-and-media-types Source- https://www.openschoolofjournalism.com/resources/about-journalism/journalism-and-media-types

16| |17
2.1.4 HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURAL JOURNALISM 2.1.2 OVERVIEW OF
ARCHITECTURAL JOURNALISM
Today, when the technology has changed topsy
turvy, the ease of access to information and medium has also
changed. One can watch, read anything and everything wishes
to set up an eye. Media has always been an aid to almost all kinds
of current affairs from every segment of society. But do we feel
the architecture and design has reached to common men the way
sports, healthcare and other practices have reached? To me the
answer is partial yes and partial no. Since. Answer to this question
is a personal opinion and may vary from person to person. 
 

In the course of time, journalism has helped us

to learn, evolve and criticize the trends through which the globe
has been going on. Journalism has been an act of circulation of
news and views of the society through various mediums like
newspaper, magazines, radio, films etc. When it comes to sharing
some intellectual data it has extended to newsletters and journals.
Similarly, Architecture Journalism is a medium by which one
can know about the various trends and works in the field. It
not only includes architecture but also criticism, trends of
building construction technique and building materials. The
profession helps one to view a building on linguistic, logical and
technical viewpoint which is understandable to common men as
well without an intricate knowledge about design and building.

With the dissemination of globalisation and

conventionality of the internet, the architecture world has
increased its reach to all. Where everything is just a click away,
students and architects have great opportunity to showcase their
work and also bring new theories of ideas regarding architecture.
Change in construction technology and building elements have
led the fraternity to set new benchmarks and therefore the
people not linked with this industry also need to be updated.
Apurva Bose Dutta, one of the leading architectural journalists
in India says “Architecture is the most public, but least discussed
of the art and arguably also least understood. For those about
the field, it poses a challenge to explore how architectural
forms both influence and are influenced by the larger culture”.
Journalism is a vicious circle of learning process which helps
the society to differentiate between good and bad. It reaches
the masses and creates an impact. Journalism even though
is not directly related to architecture, can work wonders to
widen perspective and stand as a form of
representation to the architectural world.

18| |19
2.4.1 Print Media
MARG
MARG-1946
Founder- Mulk Raj Anand
Sponser- Tata Trust
Aim of publication- to spread awareness about various
types of art and architecture
- Marg surveyed classical and contemporary Indian art,
architecture, clothing, crafts, dance and photography, also
reported on contemporary foreign art and architecture  Japan 1987
- Mulk Raj Anand, Otto Koenigsberger, Minnette De Silva
were the core committee at the time of formation.
- Later, Charles Correa headed the magazine for quite a
long time.
- Marg magazine appears to have been Tata’s first benefi-
cial commitment to education in architecture and arts.
Apart from documenting art, its early age mission also
included coverage of modern architecture and its implica-
tions for India.
- By educating the public in their appreciation of architec-
ture and creating enthusiasm among an upcoming genera-
tion of potential architects. The magazine hoped to elevate
the social standing and public respect of the architect.
Marg tried to spell the position of architects and the
profession in a manifesto “Architecture and You” first pub-
lished in 1946 and reprinted again in 1963. In December
1961 Marg devoted an entire issue to Chandigarh.
-
2.4.2 Exhibitions
VISTARA- The Architecture of India
Purpose- To experience Indian Architecture and its history.
Curators- Charles Correa, Ashish Gan-
ju, Uttam Jain, Dilip Purohit and Pravina Mehta
Sponsors- Festival of India (Government of India) , New Delhi
Inception Year- October 1986
Region and place- Nehru Exhibition Centre, New Delhi
Timeline of travel- Russia 1987
- It is essentially a documentation of contempo-
rary projects, post-independence architecture and
the traditional habitat systems in great detail.
- The exhibition on Indian architecture is a discourse
on Ideas. It recalls the history of civilization through
its architecture as an manifestion of living of patterns
- it was not only a mere documentation of nota-
ble achievements presented chronologically, but also
an assembly of photographs, artifacts, models and
even reconstructions of fragments of living patters.
- It was divided into various sections classified as Manusha,
Mandala, Manthana, Islam, Colonial and Contemporary.
- Vistara was primarily about the component of beauty in its
symbolic aspect, that is about the meanings of Indian buildings.

Source- www.pressreader.com

Source- Magazine Architecture + Design March1988

Source- Marg a tryst with modernity

20| |21
Chapter 3: ARTICLES

3.1 Articles
3.1.

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3.3 UNSEEN PLACES
Devastating State of
Jogeshwari Caves
In the proximity of densely populated slums
and busy surroundings, the caves of Jogeshwari are one of the
most ancient caves in the country. Even after being a part of a
world heritage site the monument is in devastating condition.  example of Hindu cave temples. Due to increased poaching and
It has been surrounded by slum dwellers since years. It not
only hampers the condition of the caves but is also affecting
the surrounding development of the structures in the vicinity.
According to the government, there cannot be any kind of
construction in the range of 25m which hampers the wellbeing
of an archaeological site but my question lies here that Is the
site itself in a good condition? Through the pictures we can
definitely see the state of the site. The slum dwellers have
encroached the site land as well, further disturbing the harmony
of it by throwing garbage, squatting and other activities. Some
parts of it are maintained as there are temples inside the caves
which are strongly worshipped by locals.
 
When we ask someone to name about caves
in Mumbai one would definitely say Elephanta caves or the
Kanheri caves. No one ought to know about this magnificent
cave due to its such crippling condition. Why is the government Source- google earth
acting so recklessly in preserving such historical treasure?
Over the period of time the condition of the cave has been
severe in terms of maintenance, sanity and importance. The
neighbouring development plans of SRA didn’t pass due to the
vicinity of caves in the surrounding, but are we giving attention
to the cave? The answer still lies in those verbal promises of
the local leaders as there is no action taken in upliftment and
preservation of such a historical heritage. To the people of the
city and country it is still that unknown relics discovered and
noted in the pages of Archaeological survey of India.
Being in the epicentre of the hustling city, the
cave is wonder place for students as it has immense peace that is
hard to find in the cosmopolitan. Also, it is place of worship by
the locals as they believe that goddess Jogeshwari resides in the
heart of cave. The festival of Mahashivratri is the main festival
which led to organisation of a special Shivratri Mela (Shivratri
Fair) hailing a great importance to the residents. Although the
temple of Goddess Jogeshwari is in the centre of the cave, the
adjoining spaces are filled with bats and foul smell. This the
condition of a World Heritage site today! Despite of numerous
efforts of organisation like INTACH the cave has failed to gain
Source- google earth
its identity as an ancient architectural monument which needs
to be maintained and preserved.
24|
So, going in the history, Jogeshwari caves
are amongst the earliest Hindu caves built around in 520-550
AD. The way to the caves is no less than a secret doorway to a
stranger as it is enclosed by slums from all the sides. The cave
is named after Goddess Yogeshwari, whose foot imprints are
believed to be installed in the temple. Known to be the largest
temple, length-wise, the caves are considered to be the earliest
sewage disposal, the caves have been classified as endangered.
One needs to ask the localities to help them with the direction
further. The doorway to the cave from main road is narrow
lanes with both chawls on both sides. It is much deeper than
the ground level and hence this gives it a surreal peace despite
of being in the epicentre of a chaotic city. The Steps that leads
to cave are filled with students visiting the cave as their study
place in the daytime due to its immense peace and divine feeling.
Later, on the entrance there is main hall in which the idol of
goddess Jogeshwari is placed. The idol is placed in the middle
of the hall on a four-step height with a little platform for about
20 people to stand and worship. The two dark sides of the main
hall are filled with foul smell of bats. The bats don’t harass the
people but yet it questions the sanity and maintenance of the
space. On the occasion of Shivratri and Navratri there is huge
rush of worshipers in the cave.
A huge colonnade veranda connects the
Shiva temple, Maruti Temple and the empty cells which are
believed to be once used by the monks. The other doorway of
the main hall leads to the second exit gate, before reaching the
gate the space is adjoined by Dattatreya Temple on the left. An
open courtyard between the Dattatreya Temple and the Ganpati
Temple acts a buffer zone between the spaces. At the last, comes
the Ganpati Temple which is considered as the favourite space
by the students who visit the temple with a purpose of studying.
Source- pinterest.com
There is wide passage which separates the idol and a worshiping
place by a series of colonnades. The second exit staircase leads
to the main road passing through the narrow lanes of its
neighbouring slums.
 
|25

Source- https://kevinstandagephotography.wordpress.com/2018/04/27/jogeshwari-caves-mumbai/
The Thana District Gazetteer of 1882 writes of the
caves:“The walls of the portico, and the walls of its two end
recesses, were once covered with figures, but the crumbling rock and
the low damp site of the cave have rotted away almost all traces
of carving. At the ends of the portico were two richly ornamented
chambers separated from the body of the porch by two pillars and two
pilasters now in a totally dilapidated condition. These pillars have
wasted away to the quaintest skeletons with rough corkscrew like-
ridges of harder stone, like the wreaths round the prentice pillar at
Rosslyn Chapel. The large figure in the right chamber seems to have
been Siva in the form of a seated Buddha-like ascetic, and below there
is a trace of a side figure now practically defaced, perhaps the giver
of the sculpture. The figure in the left chamber seems to have been
Siva dancing the wild tandava of which nothing now remains. In the
middle of the back wall of the portico is a highly ornamented door with
the remains of large warders on either side, and in other parts, with
traces of delicate carving of which only a few glimpses are visible.”
26|
A survey was conducted and 5 types of people were classified to
whom the caves are beneficial.
TYPE A – LOCALITES
TYPE B - WORSHIPERS
TYPE C - STUDENTS
TYPE D - TOURIST
TYPE E – ARCHITECTS AND CONSERVATIONISTS
TYPE A, LOCALITIES, Miss Riddhi
There is a threat to the encroachers who have been living in the
site area since years. Government has demolished most of them
starting it back in 2015, But there are no further steps taken to
develop and maintain the proximity of the space.
TYPE B, WORSHIPERS, Mr Shrenik
Goddess Jogeshwari is important place of worship along with
the Shivalinga and Lord Maruti. Rooting from the ancient times,
the temple is an important place of worship and should not be
converted to a full-time tourist place.
TYPE C, STUDENTS, Anonymus
Being a part of Chaotic city like Mumbai is difficult, this place is
not just a temple to worshipers but also an important structure
to students who have been coming to study here since years.
Hence, this a unique quality of the caves that it serves a totally
different class of people (students) which no other cave shall be
providing.
TYPE D, TOURIST,
As having keen interest in history, this place is no less than a
wonder but also at the same time its ruined condition questions
the preservation of the cave.
TYPE E, ARCHITECTS AND CONSERVATIONIST
The cave is not only important for the above-mentioned cate-
gory users but architectural heritage of the country. The cave
captures the type of space of early Hindu architecture as well as
it the earliest of Cave built in that era. Moreover, it is a heritage
site which needs to be preserved well for the other generations
to know about the culture and heritage of ancient times just like
other monuments in the country.
Conclusion: From the above-mentioned scenario it can be clear-
ly stated that the cave has mixed used apart from just touristy
and worship place. Hence all the user group should be consid-
ered and a public place should be proposed which is beneficiary
to all kinds of users. Moreover
|27
3.4 BLOG
Ecotourism and architecture
In the course of time, architecture and tourism
have been closely related activities. Universally, they both rely
on each other. Tourism leads to overall development of the
place. With the advent of modern architecture and usage of
materials like concrete, the perspective towards building has
also changed. Developing a tourist culture in an eco sensitive
place or where the modern facilities didn’t reach is a risky factor.
Ecotourism is tourism developed on ecological surroundings of
a particular place which has a unique ecology and has ability to
attract tourists. So when it comes to ecotourism, architecture
plays a wide role in its development as well as its working. For
any place to generate tourism, architectural development is
what one seeks apart from the attractions of the place. Context
oriented architecture is mostly a byproduct of   vernacular
architecture. It is not always important that contextual
architecture is vernacular. It depends on the surrounding of the
place.
“Sustainability means need of the present without compromising the
ability of future generations to meet their own needs”
Sustainability has been discussed over a period Source- google earth
of years, especially when it comes to architecture. It is a subject
way beyond. Architecture has always been a medium to elaborate
art and culture of a space. Vernacular architecture is the best
term which expresses “architecture based on surroundings”.
The core of the idea of ecotourism lies in architecture as it has
the power to express environment and culture through space.
Ecotourism is supported by architecture as it amalgamates
with surroundings and represents the local life with a user
experience. It helps to generate awareness for existing resources,
craftsmanship, culture of a particular place as well as works
as a support to economy and identity of the space. Moreover
there are two broader terms which one needs to understand :
contextual architecture and vernacular architecture. Vernacular
architecture can be contextual architecture whereas contextual
architecture need not to be vernacular architecture always.
Contextual architecture responds to the immediate context of
the site which is universal to all kinds of areas whether urban
or rural.
Source- google earth
28|
Whereas vernacular architecture responds
to the site surroundings which mainly includes materials and
climate. Since vernacular architecture responds to various
areas of building it can be said to be sustainable. It forms from
the surrounding and merges back to it with least possible
harm. For eg, Bhunga houses of Kutch Desert, Gujarat, India
which are vernacular as well as sustainable and as Kutch is
famous for its White Desert among the tourists, the resorts
and accommodations nearby are mostly Bhungas which gives
a perfectly portrays the culture and architecture of the place
as well as helps to maintain the ecology of the place by being
vernacular and sustainable.
Reasons why architecture and eco-tourism are related
- Architecture expresses culture.
- Architecture helps to establish the connection between indoor
and outdoor spaces.
- Construction style with respect to local craftsmanship,
materials and climate.
Examples of Ecotourism 
SAVE FARMS, DAHANU, MAHARASHTRA
Developed on the west coast of India, Save farms is an ecotourist
destination for people living in around 200 kms of radius. It is
a great example of eco tourism in terms that tourism can not
only be able to sustain the ecology but also can help to enhance/
generate the ecology of a place.
BOAT HOUSES, KERALA
Kerala, is mostly known for its ecology and scenic beauty
among tourists. It is a perfect example of eco tourism as it is
developed on the basis of boat houses, temple architecture and
scenic beauties. The most famous among all these are the boat
houses of Kerala which has  enhanced the economy as well as
also maintained the ecology of the backwaters of Alleppey,
Alapuzzha etc.
 
MALDIVES
 
Group of islands famous for beaches and ecology, Maldives is
one of the finest examples of ecotourism on a global scale. The
tourism industry has helped to revive the economy of Maldives.
Thus, these examples help us to understand that not only the
ecology of the place but the architecture of the place also
helps to attract tourists. Hence , if the built environment is not
context based it may not seek the amount of tourists and the
tourism industry in the same manner.
|29
3.1
Students and Juries:
A fathomless connection
Architecture, a course in which a student goes through
a debate with themselves that why particular this field? What
did it bring them till here? Usually, architecture students have
an inclination towards an artistic field which includes painting,
sketching, sculpting etc or there is a general observation in
order to get rid of mainstream book studying and do something
different than what Indian mainstream bookish studying looks
like. There can be also cases that one may have inclination
towards different field of design i.e. product design, furniture
design but at the early age of 17, the tendency to identify that
particular passion is not developed in many. Especially in a
country like India where many art field arts not considered as
safe side courses. Architecture being a professional course, is
ought to be taken as an all-rounder course.
Our Indian education system doesn’t share the value and reality
of any profession to the school student. In the ratio of 1:40
students in a classroom, there are only 4 students who even think
of architecture. It is well understood that our country doesn’t
even needs that many architects as per state of architecture Source- author generated
exhibition in 2016, there are only 1:30 architects as per the
survey conducted by them.
In architecture student life, there are many twists
and turns which they come across, take it work load or no
social life, architecture field itself is well known for its unusual
experiences in student life itself. In the series of submission of
different subjects there is always a battle in a student’s mind that
which submission should be given more importance. Of course,
the studio submission wins every single time. But did we as an
architecture fraternity ever thought of why every single time,
the studio submission is given importance and other subjects
like structure, history etc just remain as a support system to the
course to which all the students pay mere attention.
A series of interviews were conducted to know the facts related
to the juries of the architectural school and concerns related to
it.
A survey was conducted to know the facts related
to architectural juries and education. Following questions were
being asked to the students and architects.
30|
Q1: What’s the worst part of jury you have ever experienced or which
was your worst jury and why?
Q2: What happens when your guide doesn’t support you in your final
jury?
Q3: How do you react when you feel discouraged by your design?
Q4: How do you feel when your idea is perceived in a wrong manner?
Student 1, Uttam
A1: Relying at other sources like printing shops and not getting
the prints done.
A2: Kind of distrust is set towards the educator when the needed
support is not obtained but then somewhere you learn to defend
on everything all your life.
A3: Not being up to the mark like your other classmates
creates doubt towards oneself whether we are really meant for
architecture or not.
A4: Many a times it happens when the external juror who
doesn’t knows the process of design and when further trial
of explanations comes to the ego of the juror which leads to
misunderstandings and argument.
 
 
Student 2, Parth
A1: Group projects, though it gives you a small experience
of working in team and how would be the situations while
working but at college jury levels its can be misleading and
misinterpretation of one’s thought process and that affects the
marking system & judgment of the entire team.
A2: Distrust and demoralisation happens in one’s mind.
A3: You either drop the idea and start with new, self-question
either you are really meant for the design field or not.
A4: Many a times it happens the juror tries to force the
design rather than actually giving suggestions for it. Without
understanding the process, the judgement is made which leads
to disagreements and misunderstanding and further demoralises
the student.
Student 3, Monika
A1: Not confident and nervous about design.
A2: Never happened
A3: distract myself and start again with a new concept even if
it’s the final after some days
A4: Brings down the moral of oneself.
 
the article is yet to be concluded.
|31
Chapter 5: Literature Review

2.1 Articles
2.1.1 Architectural Cristicism

|33
Architectural Criticism- State of Play
A. Srivathsan
The popular perception that architectural criticism
in India began only in the last decade is both historically and
qualitatively inaccurate. There were regular attempts to highlight
the public consequence of architecture and made a case for it to
be taken seriously as a form of cultural production. However,
it did not grow into widely recognisable and influential force.
Some of the earliest architectural debates coincided with the
nationalist struggle. Resistance to imperial visions enforced
through architecture periodically sprung up. Projects such
as building the new capital in Delhi, in the early part of the
twentieth century, brought arguments about identity and
relevance of Indian architecture to the forefront. It was
also the time when architecture was attempting to mark
itself as a distinct and modern profession. There was an
urgent need to articulate the values and concerns of the
new profession and establish it as being different from
engineering and construction. Professional journal such as
Journal of Indian Institute of architects (1934) circulated
in this context. As its early issues described, the journal was
to show to the country what architecture means.
One of the key publications during the
early time was Marg, started in 1946 and driven by a group
of artist and architects. Marg, for a considerable time, focused
on architectural issues and strongly advocated for modern
architecture. In later years, it became a magazine associated
more with art, history and antiquities. Patwant Singh’s Design
would require special mention among early publications. Design,
in the 1960s, incorporated the earlier journal The Indian
Builder and repositioned it. Habib Rahman, Gropius, Neutra,
Breuer served on its editorial board. The magazine carried
lucid and sharp editorials on public projects and discussed
architecture along with artistic developments at that time.
The second phase of architectural writing
coincided with the publication of Architectural + Design
(A+D) magazine in 1984. The mission of this publication,
as its first edition explained, was to serve communication
needs of architects and curate projects that fulfil the criteria
of integrity, identity and relevance. The first decade was
momentous. Many significant commentaries were published
and projects were showcased. It offered an energetic platform
for architects and the hope was evident in writings. Despite
doing well A+D after its first decade slowly lost its critical
edge and slipped into a culture of mundane cataloguing.
Source- State of Architecture: Practices and profession in India
34|
In the last decade, the number of architecture
schools increased, licensed professionals burgeoned and
building construction rapidly expanded. They have created
conditions for many architecture publications to surge. The
print media is thriving and more recognisable writers have
emerged. However, unfortunately, this has not added up to
a vibrant and insightful writing milieu. Criticism needs a
constituency that demands good design and also to whom
as Alfred Kazin would insightfully remark, “Judgement is an
active factor in daily awareness”. The challenge facing Indian
Source- author generated
writing is not only to seek but also simultaneously build them.
Historicize and problematize
Mustansir Dalvi
In both the exhibition and conference, the
state of criticism in the country was historicised perhaps for the
first time. Architectural writing and criticism self-examination
is only now emerging, its influence is far from clear. Like
reflexive practices, we need more reflexive criticism, whether
in books or journals. Journals such that of Indian Institute
of Architects have excellent archival value, particularly from
its early decades, but do not provide critical writing. Other
magazines that have emerged since the turn of the century
largely valorise and commemorate the boutique practices and
showcase architects in their way limited roles as designers.
There is also a death of academic writing
in architecture because of the absence of peer-reviewed
journals. In the last couple of years, some journals have been
established their value shall only be seen in their sustainability.
If one had to rank the various states of
architecture in India based on the deliberations and the
initial viewing of the exhibition, the practices in constant
dialogue with themselves and their larger environment are the
most encouraging. The profession is being redefined by these
practices and has potential to influence education and
criticism. There have to have a larger presence on
the cultural consciousness of the country for lasting
value, much beyond the confines of this conference.
Architectural Journalism still has to take off to meet
these practices half-way. Architectural education has to
resume its role as producer of ideas and alternatives
that can be fructified in practice. The institution that
govern architecture need deep self-examination
as to their present and future relevance.
Source- State of Architecture: Practices and profession in India
|35
Architectural Journalism

“Journalism is the truth that people need

to know, and not what they want to know”. This stream as a
career establishes its importance in being the unbiased analyser
as well the awareness promoter of the design world. It has got
its never than-ever relevance now as this led demands newer
ways of understanding and experience. This does not just
involve criticism, but also lets the designer know “What is being
conveyed through their way of conveying” and also lets the
reader/user know “What is been tried to convey”. This is home
run for designers who can understand the minds of the readers/
users further-more and alter their means of communications
and also correct the miscommunication if any. The scope of an
Architectural journalist has widened and wizened in recent times.
There are in numerous magazines, web portals, blogs in
India and around the world, which connect the writers and
the readers through a palm-sized magic device Words are
our most inexhaustible source of magic,
Architectural Journalism is a whole new wizardry
which deserves to be learned, practiced and mastered.

Source- Source- State of Architecture: Practices and profession in India

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 With similar reasons during the INC ( Indian National Congress)
rule in 2012, the Lok Sabha speaker Meera Kumar had approved
the formation of a committee for a new Parliament building.
However, the plan could not work due to being disapproved
of by former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh . Sources
also cite that in past attempts were made by the NDA during
the reign of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The matter was raised again
by speaker Sumitra Mahajan in 2015 for the upliftment of the
building regarding the modern facilities debates and proposal
sums up that over a period of time the need for a new building
have always been raised and have been called off due to some or
the other reasons.

CENTRAL VISTA
Source- author generated
India has been evident of numerous rulers and
dynasties in the past few centuries. Each of the new dynasties
brought its own set of rules. From traditions to architecture
India adapted everything. Such is the story of the nation’s
Capital to what today is known as Delhi. The most impactful
witness of mughal empire was just a mere state for the British
Raj until on December 12, 1911 at the enthroning of King
Geroge V as the emperor, it was decided to shift the nation’s
capital from Kolkata to Delhi.
In order to strive for the finest infrastructure
for the new capital in 1912, Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker
were appointed as the planners and designed the upcoming
capital and its infrastructure. It took 20 years to implement the
imagination of the visionary architects. After its completion in
1927, the parliament building stands strong even today and has
been declared as a Heritage Grade I building.The Parliament
today was built as the Imperial Legislative Council and India
Gate as the triumphal arch representing the British Monarch
on land of the nation. With India’s Independence In 1947,
The process of selection and its approval Figure a - a glimpse of the proposed design by HCP
it retrieved the spaces from the Bristishers and reframed the
characteristics of places to which major part was given to public
recreation and built forms to the governing body. Since then The CPWD ( Central Public Works Department) called for a
India has been the world’s largest democracy. bid in the starting of September which included revamping the
The leaders of India aspires to be a well developed Central Vista with an approximate area of 4 square kilometers
nation which is capable in all terms from nuclear power to including a new Parliament House by 2022 as part of 75
infrastructure. With the increasing demand the needs and years of India’s Independence and others by 2024. However,
aspirations of the nation has also changed. The advancement there was no clear idea of the need. Firms from all over the
in skill, power and technology has led us to change our scenario world took part in this competition to which 24 firms were
and the method of working. shortlisted which fulfilled the criteria to which major was the
At the time of independence there were 500 company’s past project experiences on such a large scale and
MPs which has now increased to 543 and Rajya Sabha has now its annual turn over. Many firms opposed the selection criteria
increased to 234. Similarly, with the changes in governance, the to which no proper justification was issued under the selection
members in both the houses have increased. From equipment, criteria 4 firms were selected for the next stage amongst which
services the other changes and needs has to be done and the fact Ahmedabad based firm HCP won the bid. Its selection raised
is to be accepted. many questions regarding the transparency of the project.

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 The planning strategy and the homecoming of HCP

Far before its design strategy further, the selection of HCP

raised eyebrows of many amongst the architectural fraternity
and others. Due to its association with the current Prime
Minister who served as the former CM of Gujarat government
like Sabarmati Riverfront, Kakaria lake waterfront and is also
currently working on such projects like Kashi Vishwanath
Temple and Mumbai Port Trust Development.

The firm has brought many changes in proposals like the New
PM residence, revamping and relocation of many government
buildings. The firm will be paid the sum of Rs 229.75 crore as its
consultancy fees which was the highest amongst all the bidders
surplusing the cost and need of the project. Despite various
visible defects and transparency in the public consultation
process, it was still selected for such a prestigious project has let
the opposers put an angle of the firm’s Gujarat based roots and
friendly relation with the people handling the powers.

Source-
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The positive
- All the ministries will be added to Lutyens zone which today is
spread in the various parts of Delhi. It will further help the ease
of the government.
- A better infrastructure with technology and bigger space in
context with further expansion.
Traffic Congestion, fuel expenses will further reduce as the
distance and time consumed will be less.
- Permanent infrastructure to the ministries working in spaces
which are on lease.
- Security handling will be convenient as the residences and the
working zones will be in the same premises.

The negative
- The government should be clear about the requirements that
need to be fulfilled. Specification of the infrastructure is not to
the point.
- In revamping the projects, there are some blocks like Krishi
Bhavan which are to be demolished. Is that a need?
- The residence of the PM which is planned to be relocated
doesn’t seem to be a priority as the current residence is 3.5 kms
away from the Parliament building.
- The current design proposal also shows the building structures
at the place where current IGCNA is present which will hamper
acres of green space in that plot.
- Also, the proposal of Biodiversity Arboretum and nursery
which has been proposed in the backyard of the Rashtrapati
Bhavan premises is a debatable proposal. The idea includes
to house the endangered species of plants of India in space.
Adding infrastructure on the cost of dense green space. How
will it affect the highly polluted air of the Nation’s capital?
- Is there any provision for the security commandos standing in
the poor shade of trampoline and temporary structure in Delhi
in extremely hot and cold weather.
- For a developing country like India how far is it liable to spend
such a huge amount on luxurious infrastructure.
- When pandemic like COVID-19 is changing the economy and
living standards of the citizens. Is it even fair to spend on such
infrastructure and along with carrying the load of betterment
of healthcare facilities and drowning economy.
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