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Into the LIght - Architect BV Doshi passes away

2023-01-24

B.V.Doshi, often referred to as the ‘Father of Indian Architecture’ passed away today at his residence in Ahmedabad. Known for his expansive body of work, Doshi's projects may not be glamorous but they are akin to a well-designed art film, there's a lot to ponder about, they will make you think. So it's no wonder that he remains etched in the mind of young architects till date.

A champion of brutalism and modernist architecture Doshi fused Indian vernacular styles with European Modernism and Brutalism. From the Tagore Memorial Hall built in 1966 to Premabhai hall located in the Old City of Ahmedabad there are numerous examples to cite.

Prime Minister Modi took to Twitter to condole his death

“Dr. BV Doshi Ji was a brilliant architect and a remarkable institution builder. The coming generations will get glimpses of his greatness by admiring his rich work across India. His passing away is saddening. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

In 2018, he became the first Indian architect to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize; in 2022 he was awarded the Royal Institute of British Architects' Royal Gold Medal. Previously he was also awarded with the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan. It won't be incorrect to say that what Satyajit Ray is to Indian cinema; BV Doshi is to Indian architecture, it will be an herculean task to fill in the void he has left.