Koliwada Katta : Community Re-integration and socio cultural restructuring centre at Worli Koliwada

Author: Aayush Parish Kapse
Site Location: Mumbai
Institute: Rachana Sansad’s Academy of Architecture, Mumbai
Advisor: Ar. Sulakshana Bhanushali

description

Mumbai’s Worli Koliwada is one of the oldest fishing villages in India. Around 40% of the Koliwada’s inhabitants are still employed directly or indirectly in the fishing industry. As the precinct sees an evolution of thought and is witnessing the advent of education, its losing the youth to localities and industries outside of artisanal fishery. With the rise of these new trends and shift of the mindset of the Koli people, there are very limited avenues which remain as a point of interaction and present themselves as nodes of congregation for the people of the community.

With the upcoming ideas to redevelop the precinct as sanctioned by the government, the area is in a dire need of a facility which initiates, involves and interprets the public realm in the truest Koli form and order. By harnessing self-sufficiency as the foundation behind the design, the project looks into the aspect of creating an ecosystem for all age-groups, genders and traditional occurrences unique to the Koli community at Worli.

The entire facility revolved around three courtyards manifested in addition to the three existing trees on the site. These courtyards create an axial exchange amongst the public transition paths, in turn activating the public realm and whirling movement into the nooks and niches of the facility to promote interaction. The project derives theoretical backing from Prof. Charles Correa’s Theory of Critical Regionalism and Prof. Rahul Mehrotra’s Theory of Kinetic Cities. The program hence, unfolds in the spaces curated by the volumes inspired from the neighbourhood. In its originality, the project is for the Kolis, of the Kolis and by the Kolis of Worli Koliwada.

drawings

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“From Tragedy to Resilience” A Journey through Mumbai’s Terror Attacks at the Museum of Hope

Author: Tanvi Gawde
Site Location: Mumbai
Institute: Thakur School of Architecture and Planning
Advisor: Dipali Vadhavkar

description

Mumbai, a city known for its resilience, has endured significant tragedies since 1947, including the 1993 Bombay Stock Exchange bombings and the 2011 coordinated attacks. These events, which have caused immense suffering, also highlight the remarkable strength of its people. This project seeks to honour and reflect this enduring spirit through an innovative architectural design. Designed as both a memorial and an interactive educational experience, the space will document Mumbai’s traumatic history while celebrating its recovery and unity. The design features a multi-level structure that begins at ground level and elevates visitors through various emotional experiences. It will incorporate colour palettes, dynamic visual elements, and multisensory experiences such as screenings and soundscapes, along with emotive architecture to evoke deep emotional responses. Interactive interfaces will allow visitors to delve into personal stories and historical contexts, fostering empathy and understanding. By integrating these components, the project transcends functionality, creating a profound experience that educates and inspires. Serving as a beacon of hope and resilience, it will promote a compassionate and united future, ensuring that the stories of those who endured adversity are remembered and leaving a lasting impact on all who visit.

drawings

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Weaving Narratives: A Live-Work Ecosystem Within the Ruins of India United Mills 2 & 3

Author: Gabriela Marie Gomes
Site Location: India United Mills No 2 and 3, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Institute: Goa College of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Arvind D’souza

description

In the warp and weft of our urban fabric lies the rich tapestry of our industrial heritage, where the threads of the past intertwine with the possibilities of the future.
This thesis, an adaptive re-use project within the ruins of the India United mills 2 & 3 in Byculla, Mumbai, isn’t merely about repurposing bricks and mortar. Much like the threads that were once woven within these walls to create a piece of cloth, so too did the social fabric of the workers who laboured here, seamlessly connecting their social, residential, and occupational realms. In a parallel spirit, this project aspires to integrate these facets once again, to bring back that once symbiotic relationship within society. The design envisions a live-work-social ecosystem, featuring an incubator, museum, market, and platform, along with social spaces like gardens and ponds, all supported by housing specifically designed for young artistic entrepreneurs.

drawings

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Saur Saar : 1947 Partition Memorial

Author: Aishwarya Dubey
Site Location: Amritsar, Punjab
Institute: MIT School of Architecture
Advisor: Ar.Lisha Bendre

description

Saur Saar: 1947 Partition Memorial, located in Amritsar, is designed to capture the emotional upheaval of Partition—a time marked by horror, displacement, and loss. The thesis revolves around using simplicity in architecture to reflect these emotions. By blending basic elements like light, volume, space, and levels, the design echoes the emptiness and confusion experienced during this period.

The minimalistic approach strips away ornamentation, allowing light and space to guide visitors through an emotional journey. As the day progresses, light shifts to create a dynamic interplay between shadow and openness, symbolizing both the darkness of loss and the hope of resilience. The building’s levels move visitors from confined, introspective spaces into larger, more open volumes, representing the stages of grief, reflection, and healing.

This memorial is not just a space for remembrance but also a forward-thinking project that embraces climate-sensitive architecture. The design incorporates natural light and ventilation, reducing its environmental footprint while using sustainable materials to align with eco-conscious principles. Amritsar, with its rich culture and deep connection to Partition, is the ideal location for this memorial, where architecture, history, and emotion come together to honour the past while sighting the future. “Saur Saar”, to growing towards light.

drawings

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Indian Architectural Museum

Author: Jagan V
Site Location: Lado Sarai, Delhi
Institute: School of Architecture, Vellore Institute of Technology
Advisor: Dr. Sharmila Jagadisan

description

The project intervenes to bring an architectural museum which tributes to the rich architectural history and memorial to unrecognized Indian architects. Here is the place which not only exhibits the artifacts, but it also connects the story and ideology behind each architectural styles based on the chronological period from Indus valley civilization to Post Independence period. Typically, a museum is a structure that holds artifacts and knowledge presented in various ways. The Thesis looks to demonstrate architectural museum in such way which is played with Ideal and open spaces which is different from other. Climate plays a crucial role in museum if it has more open space compared to enclosed space. The responsibilities of museums encompass more than just the preservation and display of artifacts and informational items; they also involve the offering of learning opportunities. As we observed, technological innovation is not new to museums when it comes to exhibitions; multidimensional interactive displays in museum spaces have an existence that goes back around a year. This museum is designed in such a way with the combination of enclosed space and open space.

drawings

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The Imprint Of Brutalism in India

Author: Abhinit Pradip Bhoyar
Site Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Institute: Rizvi College of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Vrinda Gokhale

description

Brutalism, a style of architecture that emerged in the 1950s post-World War II, gained prominence primarily in Europe as a modern and innovative response to the economic crises many nations faced. Initially celebrated for its stark, honest use of materials and its potential to provide affordable, functional buildings, Brutalism eventually fell out of favor by the 1980s. The weathering of its exposed concrete surfaces often led to perceptions of the style as harsh and unappealing.

In India, the Brutalist movement found expression mainly in Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, and Delhi, with a limited presence in cities like Kanpur, Mehsana, and Bangalore. This research aims to explore the advent of Modernist architecture in India through the lens of Brutalism and its impact on society. Through comprehensive on-site case studies of Modernist buildings in Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Chandigarh, the study delves into how Brutalist architecture interacted with and influenced the urban landscape and the people who inhabit it.

The research also seeks to develop a multidisciplinary platform for architectural discourse, envisioning a space where discussions can be held on various architectural topics, from emerging trends to societal challenges that could be addressed through design. Initially, the Premabai Hall was considered a starting point for this project. However, due to spatial constraints on the plot and the requirement for a minimum built-up area of 4,500 square meters, the possibility of conserving the hall was explored but ultimately deemed unfeasible.

drawings

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Vytilla Mixed-use Development, Kochi, Kerala

Author: Evana Sajan Pallivathukkal
Site Location: Kochi, Kerala
Institute: SPA – Delhi
Advisor: Prof. Dr. Jyoti Pandey Sharma, Ar. Raman Vig

description

Kochi is on the cusp of embracing its regional culture and infrastructure development,
requiring an architectural intervention that reflects the city’s spirit. The city aims to create
ultra-connected work environments and City Hubs, providing a convenient and efficient
lifestyle for young citizens. The project aims to create a “buzzy,” ultra-connected public
realm with service apartments, offices, retail, and entertainment integrated with a bus
terminal, metro station, and water metro channels.
Kerala and Kochi have a unique regional identity that is celebrated globally. Kerala has a
unique model of development characterized by high sustainability values, human
development achievements and social equality, making it a model to be emulated. The
architecture community in Kerala, evident in large projects like the CIAL, is an inspiration
for moving forward.
The “Gateway of Kerala” project uses towers to create a frame with functions through a
podium and skywalks connecting parallel towers. The architectural language and
technological armature are crucial to raise the narrative, transforming site constraints like
trees, riverfront, and iconic bus terminal into drivers for the vision. Although the project
has a commercial aspect, it still maintains democratic values due to its institutional
structure and untouched natural resources.
“ The Urban Hub in Vytilla is an ode to Kochi itself, which is a city in the cup of being the
next metropolitan city while strongly rooted in its natural and cultural roots, intended in
this project by marrying the idea of future in terms of its pragmatic needs – a mixed use
program and sensitizing it with the strong visual identity reinventing the globally
celebrated culture and architectural language of the region of Kochi. ’’

drawings

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Dexterity, Tactility – Ameliorate Workhshop for Potters

Author: Anusha V.
Site Location: Puducherry
Institute: C.A.R.E School of Achitecture
Advisor: Ar. Henya Stephi. S

description

The craft based communities in Tamil Nadu are losing its importance as a part of cultural heritage. This automatically becomes the cause for losing the art in few years. Hence by designing a catalyst of built form in the urban context will help to upfront the bridging of Rural into the Urban and can be a plane of medium where they can meet. Thus the built form can have the role of establishing the importance of these beautiful crafts that has been a skill gifted from generations to another generation which is something that cannot be replicated aswell into the fast pace urban livelihood.
After inquiring with the local artisans, one thing that came repeated was that they dont have enough space to build or keep a fire place or kilns to make their products because of this they are forced to outreach to very remote villages and get the products and resell them back in the urban neighbourhood. Even though they are skilled potters, the lack of space and right materials and source force them to become sellers instead of the creators.
Understanding the Spatial needs of certain crafts and its importance of material knowledge and trying to input the importance of dexterity into built form which can become an easier medium in a fast paced urban context to acknowledge it. Hence uplifting the community engagement between two different planes.

drawings

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Tribal Museum and Reseach Centre – Nagpur

Author: Jayesh Dinesh Kumar Lunawat
Site Location: Nagpur
Institute: University Institute of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Shruti Sidhu

description

Within this endeavour, an interactive museum is unveiled—a manifestation of architectural consciousness rooted in climate sensitivity, mirroring India’s commitment to honouring its native cultural motifs. These enduring motifs, shaped through epochs, now stand on the precipice of oblivion or have been enshrouded by the sands of time. This museum emerges as an emblem not only of cultural safeguarding but also of design in harmony with sustainability, firmly underlining the urgency of countering climate change through astute architectural interventions.
In alignment with the ethos of the “Make in India” initiative, this museum serves as a window into the realm of natural creations, encompassing eco-friendly cosmetics, herbal panaceas, eco-conscious utensils, and organic textiles. Enlivened by the essence of modern vernacular techniques, its architectural form harmoniously embraces the exacting standards of global museum curation, spotlighting the exhibited artifacts and their anthropological significance, while simultaneously casting light upon their intricate ecological context.
Termed as ‘living museums,’ tribal enclaves hold the key to the renaissance of vanishing traditions. The embodiment of this concept thrives within the folds of the Tribal Museum—a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to nurturing its primal cultural sagas. This institution stands as an intersection, where the tapestry of cultural heritage converges seamlessly with the mantle of environmental stewardship, firmly accentuating the imperative of melding these twin narratives in our unceasing pursuit to celebrate and shield the bountiful legacy that India inherits.

drawings

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Architecture for a Culture – A Case of Bonda Tribe

Author: Sugyani Sahu
Site Location: Majhiguda, Odisha
Institute: Faculty of Architecture – Sri Sri University
Advisor: Ar. Rishab Ray

description

Introducing the Eco Tribal Village, an architectural thesis project that embraces vernacular, sustainability, and climate-responsible designs. This project is centered around the Bonda tribe, as they are the heart and soul of the endeavor. By meticulously considering their needs and preserving their rich heritage, we aim to create a harmonious space for both the tribe and tourists The design seeks to foster cultural exchange by providing designated areas for tourists to engage with the Bonda tribe, promoting understanding and appreciation.
By creating community areas for traditional activities and crafts, tourists can engage with the Bonda tribe and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. Emphasizing responsible tourism practices, such as waste management and ecological conservation, will further contribute to the long-term preservation of the region’s natural beauty.
Through this project, the hope is to create a sustainable and inclusive community that respects the environment and preserves the cultural identity of the Bonda tribe. Hence, by building a vibrant and eco-friendly haven that honours tradition while embracing the future.

drawings

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Centre for Culture, Thrissur

Author: Neeraj Rajeev
Site Location: Thrissur, Kerala
Institute: Nitte School Of Architecture Planning and Design
Advisor: Prof. Malini C.H.

description

The Center for Culture is an attempt at making a singular destination for anyone practicing or interested in the cultural arts. The project aims to service artist, performers, tourists and enthusiasts. This is achieved through an array for inter related exhibition, performance and learning spaces incorporating the local climatic considerations.
The final design takes inspiration from studies performed as well as the local architecture of Thrissur. The design provides spaces that cater to various stakeholders through Museum, Workshops, Private studios and Artist’s private spaces, indoor and outdoor performance spaces, markets, restaurant, café and outdoor areas while satisfying necessary services required by each individual functional space. The structure incorporates multiple climate control aspects to keep the building cool due to Kerala’s hot and humid climate. The structure incorporates jaalis into its facade to allow for seamless air movement. Jaalis have been placed on two parallel faces of the building to allow cross ventilation. The clay tile roof is placed on a steel frame that acts as ventilation system. The framework allows for warm air to escape as well as allows cross ventilation. The framework is dotted with a shutter system that can be controlled based on need.

drawings

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Hob – Box Hobby Cultivation Hub in Neighborhood

Author: Naman Shroff
Site Location: Kolkata
Institute: Amity School of Architecture and Planning
Advisor: Prof. Adityadip Chowdhury

description

In the Digital Age, where basic needs are easily met and alternative job opportunities are abundant, relying solely on work for fulfilment and contentment is insufficient. The accessibility of information and technology has led to a decline in the quality of life outside of work hours, indicating a neglect of mental well-being. Consequently, individuals seek escapism and mindless entertainment as a means of respite from work pressures. However, this does not indicate a lack of passion or interest, but rather a need for supportive urban infrastructure that encourages hobbies and passionate pursuits. Urban environments with high living costs pose challenges in allocating resources towards activities like arts, sports, or music.

This project addresses the lack of accessible and available neighbourhood infrastructures for pursuing personal interests and hobbies in Newtown Kolkata, a satellite city, that caters to diverse hobbies. It draws inspiration from the personal journeys of individuals who have faced constraints, such as limited space, while pursuing their diverse range of hobbies and passions. The area is dominated by multi-story apartment buildings and single-family houses. The sparse apartment carpet areas limit the users’ passionate pursuits and therefore becomes an inevitable challenge for them. The project seeks to uncover narratives and propose solutions embedded within the fabric of the neighbourhood to foster a supportive ecosystem for hobbies and enhance the overall well-being of its residents.

The proposal focuses on developing modular community hubs as inclusive and vibrant spaces that cater to a wide variety of interests. The project blends sustainable principles with prefabricated construction methodologies by utilizing modular design approach to provide flexible venues for creativity and self-expression. Strategic placement of these hubs encourages social interaction and knowledge exchange among residents with varied hobbies and interests.

drawings

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HAVELI- Habitat of Audio Visualizing and Experiencing the Legacy of Inhabitants

Author: Kshruti Shukla
Site Location: Jaipur
Institute: Aayojan School of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Archana Singh

description

This project aims to counter museum fatigue by understanding its sources and evaluating remedies. It provides a novel approach to interpreting history, emphasizing the contemporary importance of cultural learning and exchange in today’s influential cultural landscape. Incorporating cutting-edge technology to enrich the museum experience is pivotal, given its role as a conduit for this evolution.

To assess the spatial layout of intelligent museums using digital advancements, the project seeks effective strategies for fully harnessing their potential. Aligned with Jaipur’s ambition to nurture creativity and honour its heritage, the project embodies the forward-looking spirit of its founder, Sawai Jai Singh II. Through leveraging its cultural legacy, Jaipur aspires to advance into a forward-looking city, offering a living heritage that seamlessly integrates past and contemporary arts and culture.

Named “HAVELI,” this habitat of audio-visualized legacy immersion captures this essence. Rooted in tradition yet guided by innovation, it creates a microcosm enabling an authentic experience of the city’s essence. The project’s meticulous design harmonizes with the site’s context, echoing the architectural brilliance it houses. The space engages boldly yet serenely, probing the enigma of human existence while blending seamlessly with its surroundings, effectively tackling urban challenges.

drawings

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Muquish: An Innovative Hub for Exploration and Preservation of Kutch Textile Craft

Author: Vandana K
Site Location: Bhuj, Gujarat
Institute: School of Architecture, REVA University
Advisor: Ar. Neeraja Jayan

description

Kutch is the Largest district in India, which is well known for it’s rich cultural heritage, diverse communities and fine handicrafts. Inspite of having rich art and culture within the region due to several socio-economical reasons art especially textile art within this region have been on the verge of extinction.

There is a high need of another art resource center within the region because right now there is only one coherent body that works to provide a platform to acknowledge and revive dying art within kutch. So, there’s definitely a need and scope for another resource center within the region.

Muquish is a textile art resource center in Kutch that works up on the initative to preserve and uplift certain dying textile art forms and their art communities in Kutch. It mainly focuses on 4 textile art forms they are – Namda, Rogan art, Ajrakh block printing, Bela printing.

This as an architectural built form bridges the gap between two distinct design communities, they are the craftsmen and the designer. By seamlessly integrating traditional building techniques with modern functionality, the centre not only pays tribute to the rich architectural heritage of the region but also serves as a testament to the harmonious co-existence of human creativity and environmental responsibility.

drawings

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VIjayavara – The Urban Cultural Plaza

Author: Abhinav Dibbidi
Site Location: Vijayvada, Andhra Pradesh
Institute: Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture And Fine Arts University
Advisor: Prof. M. Vinod Ganesh

description

Swaraj Maidan, also known as the PWD Grounds in Vijayawada, faces transformation endangering its historical importance. The government intends to convert it into a park, potentially erasing its past. This involves replacing structures like Raithu Bazar with a park housing an Ambedkar statue. The ground has been a venue for exhibitions, circuses, and cultural events, holds sentimental value for locals and visitors from cities like Eluru, Rajahmundry, and Khammam. Events like the Industrial and Agriculture Exhibition and Book Exhibition unite communities in shared experiences.

This impending transformation prompts contemplation on the interplay between heritage and progress, underlining the need to strike a balance between preserving history and catering to contemporary needs.

Responding to this, the thesis project proposes revitalizing the underused PWD grounds in Vijayawada into an inclusive urban cultural plaza. Combining permanent facilities like a cultural centre, multi-level car park, and food courts with temporary activities such as industrial expos, amusement fairs, book festivals, and religious events, adding vibrancy year-round.

Embracing the city’s hot climatic conditions, the design integrates climate-responsive strategies, aiming to craft a vibrant cultural plaza symbolizing the city’s identity, fostering community engagement, and driving socio-cultural and economic vitality.

drawings

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Kallaripayattu Cultural & Rejuvenation Centre – Raigad, Maharashtra

Author: Nitiksha Mota
Site Location: Raigad, Maharashtra
Institute: Dr. Baliram Hiray College of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Shalini Shrimali

description

In the heart of India’s cultural diversity, a unique project blends martial arts, Ayurveda, and meditation for holistic well-being. This endeavour creates a harmonious fusion of Kalarippayattu’s vitality, Ayurvedic healing, and mindfulness. The design meticulously choreographs comfort through natural ventilation, bridging tradition and innovation. Nestled in Asare village, the site’s natural beauty aligns with the project’s ethos. Courtyards, earth tunnels, and thoughtful materials contribute to the eco-friendly design. A rainwater garden and water conservation efforts enrich the village. Ultimately, the project seamlessly weaves together heritage and nature for a transformative experience.


Amidst the land where rivers flow,
A project’s tale begins to grow.
Harmonizing form and function’s grace,
Crafting thermal realms in nature’s embrace.


With sensitivity to land’s contour,
A vision that’s true, forevermore.
Materials chosen, both wise and old,
Stories of the past, they softly unfold.


Ventilation dances in nature’s hand,
A choreography of breezes, oh so grand.
No machines, just whispers of air,
In this mindful design, they all share.


A climate-responsive form takes flight,
Nurturing comfort from morning to night.
River nearby, respected in every glance,
A symbiotic relationship, they enhance.


Cleaner environment, a gift to bestow,
Where harmony and purpose eternally flow.
In this project’s embrace, nature and art,
A tapestry woven, a masterpiece’s start.

drawings

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[Im]permanence in Architecture: A Case of Premabhai Hall

Author: Srivibhu Viraj
Site Location: Ahmedabad
Institute: L. S. Raheja School of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Mandar Parab

description

Nature as a medium has a lot to offer such as its course and ability to drastically transform. When dealing with the human psyche, the constant variations of behavioral reactions also are essential considerations to be made while designing for and in the Anthropocene. The noticed yet ignored dichotomy of permanence and impermanence in architecture dealing with dynamism in a context, when looked upon,
would enable us to form a better notion of space, place, and people and thus, to design for The Impermanence in Architecture.
People change, Context changes, Climate changes, then why cant architecture change from time to time to become relevant and sustain the changing times. The architecture of Impermanence is a pursuit to engage the user with something old and something new by employing potential factors of imagination, association, and relation. Thus, Perceiving design as a continual state transition that acts as a possible
alternative solution to the change.
The Case of Premabhai Hall is considered as a hypothetical understanding for this modular idea to be implemented in a context as dynamic as the old city of Ahmedabad – The Bhadra Plaza. To propose an alternative approach of design where the life of the building is mapped through a series of potential cultural shifts witnessed and interventions planned as responses for the building to stay relevant and for it to sustain the changing times and demands. Buildings as Beings and their response to Change and Changelessness as a phenomenon.

drawings

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The Labyrinth – Kinesthetics & Cultural Centre

Author: Anu Regi John
Site Location: Vagamon, Kerala
Institute: DC School of Architecture & Design
Advisor: Ar. Gayathri Raj

description

AIM

To design a dance district, a space that is dedicated to the power of movement and healing. To focus on the change the healing power of movement can bring to the lives of those not able and to make it possible for anyone and everyone to teach and learn dance without any barrier, to abolish the discriminations and presumptions relating to dance.

OBJECTIVES

1. To Provide a better life to those suffering from different physical and psychological issues through Dance/movement therapy.

2. To establish a centre for every form of dance whether Indian or International.

3. To provide a space for all dancers irrespective of their age, gender, colour, caste, style, physical conditions etc…

4. To give a new definition to dance as an industry and a career, raising its standard in the society.


SCOPE

1. This project covers the teaching and learning of all known and feasible forms of dances in India, from Indian classical and traditional forms to International dances on a single platform.

2. Dance education for the differently abled.

3. Dance education for all ages.

4. Promote tourism and international growth in the field of dance

LIMITATIONS

1. The project is limited to the teaching, learning and display of dances that are currently in the growth phase within the country such as Hip Hop, Salsa, Contemporary, Ballet, Bachata etc..

2. The project considers Dance forms alone.

drawings

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Pilgrimage Rejuvenation & Conservation of Cultural Heritage – Parshuram Kund, Arunachal Pradesh

Author: Kartikye Bordoloi
Site Location: Arunachal Pradesh
Institute: Faculty of Architecture, Marwadi University
Advisor: Prof. Parth Sadariya

description

Bhagwan Parshuram is believed to have cleansed his sin here of committing matricide by washing his hands in the holy water to rid the axe after creating the passage for the River Brahmaputra through the Himalayas. This mythological significance forms the cultural heritage and attracts a large number of pilgrims (70,000 to 100,000) particularly during Makar Sankranti. There is a steady rise in the number. The present facilities and amenities are inadequate and poor.
The Government of India in 2022 under the scheme PRASHAD sanctioned Rs. 37.88 Crores for the basic amenities and facilities and enrichment of the religious tourism experience. The goal is to integrate the kund vicinity in a prioritised, planned and sustainable manner.
Arunachal Pradesh is bestowed with a rich biodiversity, flora & fauna, scenic beauty, lifestyle, cultural heritage and a diverse ethnicity, food, dress, arts & crafts, and festivals. It is proposed to showcase and promote these attributes for the benefit, economic development of the local people as an inclusive program.

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The Last Pause – As a Belief in Varanasi

Author: Anuj Kumbhar
Site Location: Varanasi
Institute: Vishwaniketan College of Architecture, Arts & Design
Advisor: Prof. Viji Nair

description

Varanasi, often called the spiritual capital of India, is a city known for its ancient rituals and traditions, particularly those associated with death and cremation. The existing facilities for accommodating visitors during these sensitive times are inadequate, leading to overcrowding, environmental concerns, and limited amenities. “The Last Pause” is an innovative solution that aims to transform the perception of Varanasi’s death rituals by providing a well-designed and inclusive space that caters to the diverse needs of its visitors. The primary objective of “The Last Pause” is to create a sustainable and respectful space that honours the traditions and beliefs of the people coming to Varanasi for death rituals. By establishing this intervention, we seek to provide a range of facilities and programs that will enable visitors to grieve, perform rituals, seek solace, and find a sense of community during their stay. Furthermore, by incorporating landscape irrigation and other sustainable features, the project aims to contribute positively to the city’s environment. “The Last Pause” envisions a transformative architectural intervention that redefines Varanasi’s social spaces and rituals surrounding death. By providing a comprehensive and respectful environment, this project aims to create a harmonious experience for visitors while upholding the city’s cultural heritage. Through collaboration between NGOs and the government, this aims to foster a deeper sense of community and understanding in one of India’s most spiritually significant cities.

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