WORLD NEWS OF ARCHITECTURE
Vol. 39, No. 06
ARCHI TIMES P U B L I S H E D
INSIDE
This Issue
WORKSHOP
IAP-RIC arranged a one-day
workshop on Space Syntax
EDUCATION
A View of Architectural
Education
ARCHITECTURE FILM
Watch Naeem Pasha film
www.youtube.com/channelarchitimes
BOOK REVIEW
Architectural Inheritance and
Evolution in India
INTERVIEW
Interview of late
M A Moktadir
ASIF SIDDIQUI
TALKING ENGINEERING
B Y T H E P R O F E S S I O N A L S
GRAND JAMIA MOSQUE
IDEAS DESIGN COMPETITION
RESULT ANNOUNCED
BY AR. SYEDA NEHA ZAIDI
IAP Ideas Design Competition
Award Ceremony organized by
IAP Rawalpindi – Islamabad
Chapter for the Grand Jamia
Mosque in collaboration with
Lahore Capital Smart City was
held in Islamabad.
PROF. DR. YASMEEN LARI
RECEIVED RIBA GOLD MEDAL
BY ELEANOR FINLAY
Acclaimed Pakistani architect
Yasmeen Lari was awarded this
year's Royal Gold Medal, the UK's
highest honour for architecture.
Yasmeen Lari is a champion of
women's rights and a proponent of
zero carbon footprint. She is
Pakistan's first female architect,
establishing Barefoot Social
Architecture (BASA) to empower
marginalized sections of society
using methodologies that draw
upon tradition and tread lightly on
F O R T H E P R O F E S S I O N A L S
On this occasion First,
Second and Third prize winners
were annonuced. Architect Faizan
Tariq and Mirza Inayat design
declared the first prize, Architect
Hamza Masood and Nida Shahid
design received 2nd prize and
Architect Humza Suhail received
3rd prize.
Henceforth, EC Members &
the hosts/ MOC’s for the evening,
Ar. Hifsa Abid Malik and Ar.
Wajid Nazir highlighting the
objective of IAP. IAP has stood its
course working and promoting
national interests and talent on
international forums with 2200+
affiliated members and 2000+
ISSN No. 2073-9001
June 2023
News and Commentary
of the Profession....
www.architimesonline.com
student members.
Followed by the opening
remarks by the Chairman of IAP-
RIC, Ar. Fawad Suhail Abbasi, due
appreciation was offered to the
IAP Fellows, Past Chairpersons,
IAP-RIC Executive Committee,
sponsors, winners, contributors,
Continued on Page 18
the planet. By providing training in
low-tech, participatory, and
disaster-resilient methods, she has
enabled a large number of disaster-
affected communities, particularly
women, to become self-reliant.
Given in recognition of a
lifetime’s work, the Royal Gold
Medal is approved personally by
the Monarch and is given to a
person or group of people who
have had a significant influence
either directly or indirectly on the
advancement of architecture.
Continued on Page 11
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023
WORKSHOP ON SPACE
SYNTAX BY IAP-RIC
REPORT BY AR. MEHREEN MUZAFFAR
HON. SECRETARY IAP-RIC
The Institute of Architects
Pakistan, Rawalpindi- Islamabad
Chapter arranged a one-day workshop
on Space syntax in May 2023 at the
IAP Secretariat, G-5/1, Islamabad. It
was conducted by Ar. Dr. Ubaid Ullah
who is currently Head of Space Syntax
Research Lab and Member faculty,
Department of Architecture and
NIUIP at UET Peshawar.
Space Syntax is a theory and
research method that was developed
by a team led by Professor Bill Hillier
in the unit of Architectural Studies in
University College London (1976-84).
Based on quantitative analysis and
geospatial computer technology, it
provides a set of theories for spatial
configurations at architectural and
urban level.
Space syntax is one of the spatial
configuration theories that can be
applied starting from the micro level
(inside buildings) to the macro levels
(the city level). The space syntax
theory attempts to understand why,
from a spatial point of view, the built
environment morph into distinct form
in relation to corresponding socio-
cultural activities.
As a quantitative method, space
syntax describes patterns of spatial
layouts showing the effect of urban
grid configuration on existing
movements. It describes numerically
and graphically the average depth of a
space to all other spaces in the
systems, which indicates the
preferable potential places to move to
as a movement destination.
After the Recitation of Quran, the
workshop was started by the Lecture
on background, theories, and concepts
of space syntax. The workshop had
diverse participants, Architects
working in public and private sector,
urban planners and designers, faculty
and Students of Architecture from
NCA, Rawalpindi Campus and
COMSATS, Islamabad.
The participants were made to
understand the spatial
configuration of selected action area
using Depth map Software with
applications of the appropriate
methods of spatial analysis on their
selected CAD drawings. The analysis
of the current situation of selected
case study (macro scale analysis)
and its comparison between
different cases, and forecast any
future spatial interventions were
done. The comparison and analysis
of micro scale analysis of buildings'
syntax by participants and the use
of software tools of spatial analysis
to base their planning decisions
gave them a sound and solid
knowledge for their projects.
The certificate distribution
ceremony was organized at an
Informal Architects & Students Meet
& Greet the same evening at the
Rear Lawn of the IAP Secretariat at
the Sir Syed Memorial Complex,
Islamabad. Senior & junior
architects of the chapter joined the
participants and EC for the
ceremony. Chairman IAP-RIC Ar.
Fawad Suhail Abbasi & Vice
President IAP Ar. Kabeer Malik
acknowledged the contributions of
our industry partners and the
Workshop Instructor Ar. Dr. Ubaid
Ullah for conducting the extremely
4
WORKSHOP
important workshop and joining
other colleagues and students all the
way from Abbottabad.
The casual evening was enjoyed by
all where architects and students
participated, sang and played
instruments and the audience joined
them. It was an exciting evening and a
great day spent after a wonderful
interactive workshop.
The Convener of the workshop
was Ar. Arslan Ejaz who is also the
Hon. Treasurer of IAP- RIC.
The Executive Committee is
planning more such events in the
future including excursion trips, talks,
awards & competitions and sports for
both female, male architects &
students. A friendly hard ball cricket
match is already organized in
Peshawar between Teams of IAP-RIC
& IAP-PC on June 3' 2023.
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023
A VIEW OF ARCHITECTURAL
EDUCATION
BY ARIF HASAN
I began my architectural
practice in 1968. In the first ten
years of my practice, I not only
designed houses and work places
for the rich but I also designed
large scale housing complexes and
townships for developers. Some of
these housing complexes and
townships were ostensibly meant
for low income groups but in
reality the end product never
reached them. I also worked for
government agencies, such as the
Appropriate Technology
Development Organisation
(ATDO), doing research and
experimental work on "low cost
housing". Working for the ATDO I
realised that the issue was not
really of technology but of
equitable relationships between
the various actors in the building
drama. During this entire period I
was involved in politics in a
limited way and had an interest in
Pakistan's history and sociology.
These interests took me to the
rural areas, congested inner cities,
and peri-urban informal
settlements. I wrote extensively
on physical and social conditions
of the areas I visited and my
architectural practice financed
these involvements. In addition, I
had grown up in relative affluence
in a settlement which contained a
large number of poor refugee
families and destitute groups.
After I started practicing, many of
my childhood acquaintances and
friends from these groups came to
ask me for assistance in acquiring
land and building their homes.
Through them a number of
6
ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION
(I apologise for writing this paper in the first person. It sounds pretentious.
However, since I have not translated my personal experiences into some form of
theory, or even rationalised them properly, I have no other alternative.)
in them after people start living
Architectural education, in Pakistan at least, does not there or start using them. This gap
points to a conflict between theory
promote a study and interest in local materials and in and standards on the one hand
and the social and cultural reality
energy related issues. The result is excessive costs of on the other.
In addition, architectural
construction and maintenance and climatically an education, in Pakistan at least,
extremely uncomfortable architecture. Form seems to does not promote a study and
interest in local materials and in
dominate all other aspects of design and breeds a energy related issues. The result is
excessive costs of construction
megalomania which is reflected in the vulgarity and scale and maintenance and climatically
an extremely uncomfortable
of the new architect-designed urban landscape. It is this architecture. Form seems to
dominate all other aspects of
megalomania which is also responsible to a great extent design and breeds a megalomania
in destroying the tranquillity and natural environment which is reflected in the vulgarity
and scale of the new architect-
of rural settlements. These architect-designed buildings designed urban landscape. It is
this megalomania which is also
are the models that are replicated in part by contractors, responsible to a great extent in
destroying the tranquillity and
individual builders and artisans. natural environment of rural
settlements. These architect-
designed buildings are the models
organisations from low income sector developers, bureaucrats sociology and economics of the
that are replicated in part by
settlements asked for assistance in and politicians. A nexus between user groups, but to a whole range
contractors, individual builders
dealing with government them, the law enforcing agencies of cultural and organisational
and artisans.
development agencies for and various mafias operating in aspects. These include the nature
Like many architects of my
improving their settlements. the city, make a mockery of this of building bye-laws and the
generation I started to question
Through this process of process. manner of their application; the
the conventional role of an
practicing and related 2. Not more than two to five per organisational culture of the
architect working in a Third
involvements, I learnt six cent of all buildings built in implementing agency; and the
World city. I saw clearly that my
important things. Pakistan are designed by various rules and regulations of
work did not deal with any of the
1. The built environment is the architects. The rest are built by tendering for and monitoring
issues related to the crisis of the
result of the nature of their owners with the help of construction. In addition, it is also built environment in Karachi or in
relationships between different skilled labour or by contractors related to the systems of the other areas of Pakistan where
actors who are responsible for and it has always been so in our maintenance and operation of I was working. Nor was the work
creating it. The environment is history. However, traditionally the services and in the long run to that I was doing, even the so-
invariably better where relationship between the owner, land use changes in the area. called low cost housing, affordable
relationships are more equitable. artisan, institutions that provided 4. In almost all cases, to the vast majority of my
To make them more equitable it is land and materials for environmentally "friendly" countrymen. I also realised that
necessary to support the weaker construction, was well-defined buildings are not the result of my training as an architect did not
actors. The state, I learnt, was and backed by a hereditary caste "originality" on the part of the equip me to play a role that was of
simply one other actor (and so system and local level community architect but of humility, modesty, much relevance to the reality
was the architect) and in many institutions. These arrangements and a sympathetic appreciation of around me. This was because my
cases, not the most important one. no longer function and the new development related issues. training did not equip me in
These actors include among arrangements that are surfacing 5. Problems related to changing relationships; in relating
others, informal sector have yet to be clearly defined. The "rehabilitation" and design to the organisational
entrepreneurs, transporters, land- absence of this definition is a "conservation" are seldom local in culture of public and private
grabbers, small building major cause for the crisis the built origin. They are always the result sector agencies; in respecting and
contractors, money lenders and environment faces, not only in of city level economic, promoting modesty and humility;
the middlemen who are the go- lower income settlements, but in environmental, administrative in reconciling architectural theory
betweens between them and a the urban and rural areas as a and/or planning issues. and standards derived from First
corrupt and uncaring officialdom. whole. 6. Almost all projects, especially World literature, to local social
The planning process and its 3. The quality of design and the those for low income reality; in relating local level
implementation is subject to end product in architecture is communities, are seldom used in issues to city-wide processes; or in
manipulation by powerful interest directly related not only to the the manner for which they are developing a sympathetic
groups which include formal architect's understanding of the planned. Major changes take place Continued on Page 8
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023
A VIEW OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION
Continued from Page 6
understanding of the poor who
are considered to be a major cause
for the degradation of the urban
environment. I also had the little
understanding of the importance
of bye-laws and zoning
regulations in shaping the built
environment. I just took them for
granted and followed them
accordingly. In short, my training
did not teach me to innovate. In a
society which is in transition and
does not conform to any known
theoretical framework, there
could be no greater constraint for
appropriate professional work. I
also realised the importance of
conventional architectural work
and that not all architects could or
would be willing to look at the
larger issues of the built
environment. However, it was
obvious that if they were aware of
the factors, actors and
relationships that produced this
environment, the end product in
design would be very different and
so would the design process.
When I looked around I found
that almost all the major planning
and architectural tragedies in
Pakistani cities (and I saw only
tragedies!) were the result of the
shortcomings I have described
above. The fault in all these
projects was the lack of
understanding on the part of
architects and planners of
political, social, economic and
administrative realities and their
inability to involve interest groups
in the planning and
implementation processes. It was
their failure to predict change,
and hence plan for it and to
identify the actors that would be
involved in it. It was their lack of
concern for eventual maintenance
and operation of the buildings and
the systems they were proposing.
It was the flaw in the assumptions
on which they worked,
assumptions drawn from the First
World experience in which the
informal sector and community
efforts that serve the needs of the
majority of Pakistanis, do not
figure. And finally, as a group, the
architectural profession was
unwilling to participate in any
citizen's movements for a better
physical and social environment
or to struggle to promote
transparency and accountability
in the planning processes in which
they were involved, without which
equitable relationships between
the actors in the built
environment drama can not be
achieved. This unwillingness was
a result of a lack of knowledge and
understanding of ground realities
and of the close relationship that
exists between the physical, and
the social and political
environment. It was also the
result of fear; hostility and
suspicion that the profession has
towards lower middle and lower
income groups, who are usually
the supporters of such initiatives,
and the result of justifying their
participation in a system of
opportunism and exploitation.
In 1979, Professor Javaid
Haider of the Department of
Architecture at the Dawood
College in Karachi, asked me to
teach as a visiting faculty member.
As a teacher I tried to address
many of the issues I have raised
earlier in the text. I also
discovered that certain faculty
members had concerns similar to
mine and that the Dean of the
Faculty, Professor Kausar Bashir
Ahmad, wanted to develop a
Dawood College, Karachi
curriculum and a teaching
methodology that would help in
producing, what he called,
"socially responsive architects".
Since then I have taught at the
Dawood College in an
environment where there is a
continuous search for developing
a teaching methodology that
relates architectural education to
social and economic reality.
Since 1982 I have also worked
for the Orangi Pilot Project (OPP)
and so have other part-time
teachers at the Dawood College.
As a result, and with the support
and blessings of the Dean, a
working relationship has been
established between an
educational institution and a grass
root community development
project which addresses the major
issues faced by low income
communities. These communities
form the majority of the
population of Karachi. Again, after
1984, I have been an evaluator of
various architectural projects, city
master plans and rural
development related housing and
infrastructure inputs. I noticed
that in these projects the
architects and planners had no
understanding of the society for
which they were planning or of
the actors and factors that will
eventually modify, shape or make
redundant their inputs. My views
on architectural education, given
below, are derived from the
experiences and associations that
have been explained above.
To relate architectural
education to the realities of Third
World urban and rural built
environment, it is necessary that
the student architect understands
this environment. This
understanding cannot be created
by lectures and theories alone.
This is because this environment
is still a relatively unexplored area
and is in a process of constant
change. Theorising about it, as
many First World academic
institutions do, is to create
fallacies and to promote
assumptions that have little or no
basis. It is because of assumptions
and theories such as these, that
First World technical assistance
and financial aid, and reform
attempts by Third World
governments, have made little or
no impact on the built
environment. What is required is
to expose the student architect to
the larger environment and help
him in observing and analysing it.
In the first semester students
must be explained the structure of
government, along with its
potentials and constraints, at all
levels; the role of line departments
and utility agencies in urban and
rural development; and the
relationship between the entire
development process and the
political structure. The
relationship between the formal
sector in the built environment
and the government must be
explained along with the problems
that the formal sector faces in
dealing with low income groups.
This understanding will
prepare the student for the next
phase. In this phase he should be
exposed to a settlement or area in
the city which aces major
environmental problems. He
should be asked to observe the
physical aspects of these problems,
identify the causes for them (these
causes can be social, economic,
political, administrative), and
establish the relationships
between the various actors in the
development drama. Along with
the causes he should also identify
the immediate and long term
repercussions of these problems.
This exercise will give the student
an understanding of the factors
that create the built environment,
their inter-linkages, and the role of
various interest groups. In
addition, he will get a feel for local
materials of construction,
problems related to technology
and artisanal skills, and climatic
and energy related issues.
The teaching of history or
architecture should follow this
exposure. The factors which have
been identified as determining the
built environment should be used
to analyse every period of
architectural history. Thus, the
student will use the knowledge he
has gained through exposure to
his environment continuously for
a period of two to three years. This
will consolidate a process of
thinking of which observation and
analysis is an integral part. This in
turn will have an effect on the
design solutions that he seeks and
on critically analysing and sifting
the various "isms" that are hurled
at him by the architectural
establishments of both the First
and the Third World.
In the third year design
programmes must concentrate on
social issues. In developing
solutions, the student must hold
discussions with local government
officials and understand their
plans, thought processes and
manner of operation; identify
interest groups (formal and
informal) and seek guidance
from them; talk to the victims
and beneficiaries of his
solutions; and synthesise his
findings. The school must help in
arranging this interaction.
There is also a big gap between
local construction details and
ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION
processes and what a student is
taught in his building construction
and structure classes. To overcome
this a building site should be
allocated to each student in the
third year. He should pay a weekly
visit to it and report on its
development, attitudes and
concerns of the skilled and
unskilled labour at site, the local
terminology used, and an
appreciation of the building tools
and machinery which are being
used for construction purposes.
The link between the drawing
board and the building site will
lead to more realistic plans, and in
the case of a minority, more
imaginative ones at the same time.
In my teaching experience, I
have observed that it is difficult to
convey concepts and ideas through
lectures and even through slides
and videos. This is because most
students have a poor power of
observation and are not able to
pick out, what is known as, the
"central idea" in our language. In
short, they cannot make a precise
of what they have seen, read or
heard. Maybe the fault lies with the
process of basic education in
Pakistan. However, if students are
made to visit, document and
analyse the design, function and
details of items such as existing
kitchens, cinema lobbies,
exhibition spaces, informally
constructed homes, etc, they get a
better grasp of architectural theory
than any book or lecture can give
them. But of course, you need a
teacher that can guide them in this.
Before a student does his final
thesis design he must be exposed
again to a problem area of the city
or the rural areas. This time the
area that he is exposed to should
have multi-faceted problems and a
large number of divergent actors in
it. For one class two or three areas
should be taken which are different
from each other and students
should be divided into groups to
study and analyse them. The areas
should collectively contain
problems related to environmental
degradation, conservation,
relocation, low income housing,
tenure security, upgrading etc. The
end result of this process should be
collective reports on the areas
containing a description of the
processes, causes of the problems,
repercussions and detailed
analysis. Interaction between the
groups should be arranged so that
they can benefit from each others
work. An essential part of the
exercise should be the study of
government plans and their
analysis. In addition, the student
must develop an independent
design or policy decision.
The above agenda can be
8
greatly enriched with a long term
association of the school with an
NGO or grass root programmes.
This association gives the student
architect an access to problem
areas of the city and its residents
and a first-hand understanding of
processes involved in the creation
of the built environment and the
repercussions of those processes.
The agenda can be further
enriched if lectures from
representatives of various interest
groups and stake holders in the
development drama could be
arranged for the students. For
instance, in a transportation
project the representative of the
bus owner's association or the
mini-bus driver's association
could give a lecture. In a
wholesale market project, the
representative of the labour union
or of contractors who manage the
operation and maintenance of the
market, could give some inputs.
The proposals given above will
not produce an architect who has
ready-made solutions to the
problems of the environment.
However, it will produce an
architect who has a sympathetic
understanding of processes and
people. He will also have respect
for nature, history and the
dynamics of culture (as opposed
to simply "culture"). In addition,
in this age of populism, he will
have the possibility of developing
a populist vision instead of simply
being saddled with an elitist one
and or of supporting populist
concerns and movements without
understanding them. And above
all, he will not fear or be hostile to
low income communities, the
informal sector and or, various
"middlemen" who shape our
environment, even if he does not
work for them.
The Dawood College in Karachi
has been doing parts of what I have
described above. An initial
exposure to environmental
conditions in the city is provided in
the first year. A more detailed
exposure is provided in the fifth
year through what is known as the
Comprehensive Environmental
Design Project. Many theses deal
with social issues. However,
lectures on political and social
economy, the teaching of history as
suggested above, monitoring a
building site and the development of
an understanding of architectural
theory through observation is not
done. In spite of this, the College is
the only institution in Pakistan
which is producing architects that
understand the factors that create
the built environment, related to
informal processes, look at the
larger issues related to
conservation and housing, and are
willing to make design subservient
to sociological and economic
reality. It is not surprising that
architects produced by the College
are manning most of the
important projects related to the
built environment and are the
pioneers of architect's
involvement in community
programmes in Pakistan.
The major problem in
promoting the above teaching
agenda is that teachers invariably
teach as they have been taught and
the architectural establishment for
the most part is not only
conventional, but down-night
reactionary, except in rhetoric.
Thus, the agenda can only take off,
if there are a few pioneers and if a
sufficiently large number of
graduates produced by the school
eventually come back to teach.
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023 10
COMMENTARY Please send us letters and your feedback to the Editor: architimes@gmail.com LETTERS

World Environment Day Is this development or destruction?

Global action is urgently needed as a series of extreme heat waves It has now become a sort of trend society of sorts. Though on a small Grade 20 and above, and the tourism
in Pakistan, wreak havoc on human rights, Amnesty International for people belonging to metropolitan scale, a niche property for the sector is no exception.
said in its new report ‘A Burning Emergency: Extreme heat and the areas to move to the northern areas, privileged. He was a real estate I wonder why it is so difficult to
right to health in Pakistan’. or at least have a second home there, tycoon in the making. I say `in the comprehend that `development` and
The report, released on World Environment Day, examines the because the `mountains are calling`. making`because had he been an creating tourism opportunities do not
impacts of extreme heat in Pakistan on people’s lives and right to
While there is nothing particularly established hardcore tycoon, he necessarily mean `construction
health and livelihoods. It highlights the struggles of people living in
poverty in some of the hottest cities in the world. wrong with the trend, somehow the would have established a lavish activity`.
“Pakistan is on the frontline of the climate crisis. Climate injustice intention of moving to mountains `town` in Hunza already even if he Azad Kashmir, Baltistan, Chitral,
is starkly visible. Despite their small contribution to climate change, its transforms into a business had to take one of the Passu Cones Gwadar, Thar and all such areas are
people face disproportionately severe consequences which are often opportunity for many. down, and onein Skardu, with Upper losing the essence of native
life threatening. Tackling a climate crisis of this scale requires global These enlightened souls with Kachura Lake in the middle, and one communities,folk wisdom and,
attention and action. Wealthier countries must make no mistake about money and `exposure` invest in land in Chitral, which will of course have indeed, cultural heritage.
the important role they play,” said Dinushika Dissanayake, Amnesty and establish only hotels. Because, a polo ground of its own, and, Our business tycoons continue to
International’s Deputy Regional Director in South Asia. you know, that is the only way to help indeed, one in Gwadar, right next to usurp Pakistan`s valuable land,
“On World Environment Day, we hope our report serves as a the local community. the serene blue beach. This would gradually gnawing away layers of local
reminder of our collective responsibility towards some of the most Somehow, that dream of living have happened simply because environment and lifestyles.
marginalized people exposed to extreme temperatures. They are
the isolated life and giving back to the natural landscape and features Occasionally on my travels when I
being forced to live in torrid conditions, as these searing
temperatures rise every year while we idly let time go by. Without nature turns into an establishment naturally belong to the nature-loving tread on a terrain that is rough and
further delay, wealthier countries must demonstrate a decisive with rooms and room services. enthusiasts of the country ... the ones unpaved, it is a moment of utter
commitment to reduce emissions, rapidly phase out fossil fuels and Last year, I had the privilege of with lots of money. delight as that evidently suggests the
provide funds to support people to adapt and quickly operationalize speaking to a young metropolitan a But, frankly, our little tycoon in lack of such opportunists reaching the
the Loss and Damage fund established at COP27.” Christopher McCandless-turned- not the only one for whom empathy remote regions.
The report also asks the government in Pakistan to develop Donald Trump who has established a is a word that exists in dictionaries Cities grow and infrastructure is
comprehensive heat action plans consistent with human rights law huge hotel in Hunza, and is expanding only. We are a society wherein needed, but is it necessary to do it at
and standards, and to ensure that the rights of groups that are it aggressively. He did not want to decision makers would have the the cost of natural landscape and
especially vulnerable to the health impacts of extreme heat are leave out even an inch of space for audacity to even plan to demolish cultural heritage? While the world is
protected. The report - A Burning Emergency: Extreme heat and the making money out of the famous Lahore`s famous historical making efforts trying to go back to its
right to health in Pakistan - is based on in-person interviews with 45
`Attabad View`. It seems that the lake monument of Chauburji that was roots, we are bent on completely
people experiencing adverse impacts of extreme heat during the
summer months of 2021 and 2022 in Jacobabad and Lahore in itself is receding because of such apparently coming in the way of the eradicating ours. We are getting
Pakistan. Jacobabad is one of the hottest places on the planet. In June exploitation, as if it has had enough. Orange Line Metro Train, or to dig obsessed with the idea of rapid
2021, its highest recorded temperature reached an unbearable 52°C. The lake is only a decade old, but away the Ardi Mountains at Kirthar construction; and in the process the
Amnesty International interviewed people at higher risk of instead of understanding the event of National Park to expand lavish essence of communities, folk wisdom
exposure to heat, including agricultural workers, labourers in brick its birth which was a calamity, if you housing colonies, or to build and cultural heritage is losing its
kiln factories, delivery riders, police officers, sanitation workers and remember the lake`s growth and its infrastructure on precious importance. This is another step back
others in outdoor work. Health workers interviewed in Jacobabad and mood, the mountain-loving agricultural land. for a country like Pakistan which has
Lahore reported seeing increases in heatstroke, drowsiness, difficulty businessmen grabbed every That being so, it is unfair to rich cultural and traditional roots.
breathing, burning sensations in the stomach, dizziness, fever, body opportunity to feast on its beauty expect tycoons in the private sector to Considering the pace at which we are
pain, eye infections, and headaches during periods of extreme heat. A without learning anything from its understand that growth and `developing` Pakistan, we could
health worker in Lahore told Amnesty International, “In May and
creation. The person concerned ended infrastructure that revolve around perhaps change its name to the
June, many patients came to us because of the heatwave... Daily, we
would receive 50-60 cases in the emergency department.” up creating a social divide which is as erecting buildings only displace local `Islamic Republic of Housing
“There is no escape for us” It is evident from the interviews that, sharp as is the environmental divide. communities, while traditional Societies of Pakistan`.
while the impact of extreme heat is felt by everyone, some are much The man-with-dreams said he neighbourhoods vanish and the true
worse off because of their socio-economic status. planned to buy more land, build identity of a place is lost. We lack S. Sundas
A woman living in an informal settlement in Jacobabad said: “We more infrastructure, and to develop a empathy and planning, especially at Rawalpindi
are more vulnerable to heat than anyone else. Hot weather impacts
poor people. There is no escape for us.” Day-wage workers that
Amnesty International interviewed, said that they have no choice but
to continue working even if they feel hot, despite the health Parking Nuisance
guidelines to stay indoors during periods of extreme heat. A tractor
driver in Jacobabad said: “If we take a break there is no daily wage…
because of poverty, we have to work no matter the weather.” In 2022, Karachi, which is the supermarket in the area, and you supermarket concerned should take
People such as those living in poverty and working in the country`s economic hub, was ranked would start thinking of your immediate measures in collaboration
informal sector with precarious work, lower incomes and fewer among the most unliveable cities in immigration options. with the relevant authorities to resolve
opportunities for rest and shade, with limited or no access to the world by the Economist The situation has become so the issue forthwith.
support, are severely impacted by the extreme temperatures. Intelligence Unit. intense and frustrating, with cars It will do a lot of good to the image
Furthermore, multi-layered and intersecting forms of Karachi was ranked 168th on parked in a disorderly manner, that it of the supermarket, which actively
discrimination against women also undermine their ability to cope Global Liveability Index out of 172. is now difficult, if not impossible, for encourages people to chase value in
in heat waves, which has potentially dangerous implications for their
Healthcare, environment, education, the area residents to even get their their purchase, within the local
health and that of their children.
“Government is invisible here” A brick kiln owner in Jacobabad infrastructure, culture and stability vehicles out onto the main road; for community. If such a cooperation could
said: “If the government had taken care of the area, Jacobabad were the core indicators that pushed me, personally, it takes around 30 include community representatives, it
would have been a fine place. But the government is invisible here.” the city to be ranked among the minutes. Yes, 30 minutes. will be a seriously good initiative.
Despite the searing temperatures in Jacobabad and Lahore, unliveable cities globally. As the supermarket is located Developing on this, the plan should
neither city has a heat action plan or climate-responsive social Since I am a resident of the right on Rashid Minhas Road, its consider the needs and concerns of
protection mechanisms in place. In Pakistan, more than 40 million megacity, I canrelate to parking lot has increased traffic residents andbusinessesfunctioning in
people do not have access to electricity. Others have erratic and theseindicatorstoagreat extent. I live congestion, forcing the commuters to the area to promote safe and efficient
irregular supplies. People living in poverty do not have access to, or in Block 2 of Gulshan-i-Iqbal, inch through jammed vehicles. While traffic flow. Possible solutions could
are unable to afford, electricity for fans or air conditioning units and
andthereisenoughintheareatoendorse the supermarket`s popularity and include having parking attendants or
neither can they afford to buy solar panels.
A lot of the public health advice on avoiding exposure to heat the `liveability` argument. outreach is respected,itis vitalto some security personnel to ensure
presupposes that people can afford to stay indoors, negotiate Just take the example of abrupt address the traffic issues to ensure a proper parking. This is as simple as that.
different working hours, access adequate water, healthcare and parking areas that are carved out peaceful coexistence with the
cooling mechanisms. overnight every few nights. Add to it surrounding community. Asad Ali
“Well-designed and well-resourced social protection programs the parking chaos of a well-known The management of the Karachi
can help mitigate some of the worst impacts of climate change as
crisis upon crisis hits Pakistan,” said Dinushika Dissanayake.

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ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023 11
NEWS

PROF. DR. YASMEEN LARI

RECEIVED RIBA GOLD MEDAL
Continued from Page 1
Awarded since 1848, past
Royal Gold Medallists include Sir
David Adjaye OBE (2021),
Grafton Architects (2020), Sir
Nicholas Grimshaw (2019), Neave
Brown (2018), Dame Zaha Hadid
(2016), Frank Gehry (2000), Sir
Norman Foster (1983), Frank
Lloyd Wright (1941) and Sir
George Gilbert Scott (1859).
This year's recipient, Yasmeen
Lari said: "I was so surprised to
hear this news and of course
totally delighted! I never imagined
that as I focus on my country's
most marginalized people —
venturing down uncharted
vagabond pathways -- I could still
be considered for the highest of
honours in the architectural
profession.
"RIBA and the Award
Committee have heralded a new
direction for the profession,
encouraging all architects to focus
not only on the privileged but also
humanity at large that suffers
from disparities, conflicts and
climate change. There are
innumerable opportunities to
implement principles of circular
economy, de-growth, transition
design, eco urbanism, and what
we call Barefoot Social
Architecture (BASA) to achieve
climate resilience, sustainability
and eco justice in the world."
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023
THE HIDDEN BEAUTY OF
BALUCHISTAN AND TOURISM
Figure 1
BY AR. HUMAIRA NAZIR
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
SIR SYED UNIVERSITY OF
ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
For Pakistan's tourist business,
globalization presents incredible
prospects. Pakistan is privileged to
have a variety of landscapes and
regions inside a single nation, making
it a rich source of all kinds of tourist
sites. Pakistan's topographical variety
includes deserts, glaciers, rugged
terrain, sandy beaches, landlocked
mountains, and peaks with four
different seasons. Its long history has
given birth to ancient civilizations like
Mohenjo-daro, Mehrgarh, Harappa,
and Taxila. The best thing about this
country is not just the ruins of ancient
civilizations and stunning scenery, but
also the legends associated with these
spellbinding locations. This lovely
nation contains many undiscovered
gems with enthralling and thought-
provoking mythologies that need to be
revealed and communicated.
Baluchistan is an area that has
many undiscovered gems. "Land of
Beauty" is a perfect description of the
province of Baluchistan. It makes up
Figure: The path leading to Princess of hope
The Sphinx of Baluchistan
Figure 1: Map of Baluchistan
Figure 2: Princess of hope and great sphinx on map
42% of Pakistan's total land area and is
the biggest of the four provinces
geographically, with 347,190 km2. Due
to the steep terrain and water shortage,
the population density is quite low.
Baluchistan's eventful past, which dates
back to the Stone Age, is visible in the
region's geology, which is represented
by a complicated sedimentary pattern
of deposits from many eras. At
Mehrgarh, a 9000-year-old civilization
has been discovered via recent studies
and archaeological digs. The distinctive
transition from a hunting-gathering to
a settled existence was introduced for
the very first time in the history of
mankind at Mehrgarh, where the
human settlement pattern was
unprecedented and unique.
Additionally, the finding of utensils in
this region that are similar to those
found in other historical sites in
Pakistan, like Mohenjo-Daro in Sindh,
Kalibangan in India, and Nisa in
Turkmenistan, has led archaeologists
from all over the world to think that
human communication in the region of
South Asia began in Balochistan.
Its northeastern part is dominated
by the Sulaiman Mountains, and the
Bolan Pass is a natural entry point into
Afghanistan that leads to Kandahar. A
large portion of the province is barren
desert terrain south of the Quetta
region, with a few inhabited villages
scattered throughout, primarily around
rivers and streams. Makran is the name
of the region in the south. Kalat is the
name of a region in the province's
middle. The coastal regions of
Balochistan are of the highest calibre,
with unending beauty and a teeming
natural flora and wildlife. There are
several peninsulas and promontories
along the 760-kilometre-long coastline
line. Due to the high hills rising steeply
beyond the little coastal plain, the
coastal region is not efficiently
connected to the interior. Beautiful and
attractive ports include Somiani, Pasni,
and Gwadar. Hence, with its beautiful
natural and man-made tourist features,
including mud and rock mountains and
valleys, Balochistan has the potential to
become an increasingly popular
destination for travellers and tourists.
Tourism is a growing sector in the area.
The mountains of the region have been
transformed into beautiful pillars and
nicely shaped objects as a result of
climatic changes, rainfall, and strong
winds from the ocean. The forts and
Figure: Princess of hope
Figure: The Sphinx of Baluchistan
Figure 2
palaces with their ancient classic
orders that were built by ancient
civilizations are similar to these pillars,
after looking at them. Additionally, it is
clear that the shapes of the mountains
point in specific directions, indicating
that the direction of the wind had a
key influence in twisting the shapes of
the mountains.
On the other hand, nobody even
discovers the beauty of these
mountains and numerous other spots,
not even a princess who stood silent
for years until a few years ago in this
barren desert. The "Princess of Hope"
is a beautiful rock sculpture that
Mother Nature created in the Makran
Coastal Mountain Range according to
the people. In her post, Zainab Asghar,
2021, talked about the Princess of
Hope Baluchistan, describing it as a
unique natural phenomenon in Hingol
National Park, Gwadar, which is
situated 190 kilometres from Karachi.
This rock carving, in the opinion of
historians, dates back at least 750
years. The dominating princess is
elegantly attired in a royal robe and
hood; nonetheless, she exudes the
impression that she is hoping for
something. Princess of Hope's
12
TOURISM
foundation is so perfect that it appears
to be a work of art created by an expert
craftsperson who made no mistakes to
transform this rock into a princess.
The monument was given the title
"Princess of Hope by Angelina Jolie, a
well-known Hollywood actress, in
2002. When Angelina Jolie toured
Hingol National Park during her
service as a UN Goodwill Ambassador,
she noticed the princess, who had
been standing in the mountain range
for a long time. She suggested the
name "Princess of Hope" for the
princess of this statue. Strong winds
from the Arabian Sea and years of
persistently heavy rains in that region
have carved out the unstable
landscape into a lovely good lady,
which is why the sculpture is twisted.
A Balochistan Sphinx, which is the
princess of Hope's sole friend, is the
area's second natural feature. This
natural rock formation, commonly
referred to as the "Lion of Balochistan"
or Abul-Hol, is seen from the Buzi Pass
stretch of the Makran Coastal Highway.
This sphinx resembles the Egyptian
Sphinx at Giza, Egypt, which is visited
by countless people from all over the
world and is admired for its design skill.
What do you think, are these
formations formed by erosions of
water and wind or do you think like
me? I think it's not possible that
erosions can form multiple shapes in a
specific location starting from sphinx
of Baluchistan and ending on the Buzi
top. There is something else that need
to be discovered by the government
and heritage department of Pakistan.
Hingol National Park, Pakistan's
largest national park, is the third
most popular destination for
tourists. It is known to be home to at
least 25 different species of
mammals, 185 different bird species,
and over 65 different types of
reptiles and amphibians.
Mud volcanoes are another
fascinating aspect of the Balochistan
terrain, and the Miani Hor-Hingol Valley
is home to more than 80 active mud
volcanoes. According to legend, mud
volcanoes have deep subterranean roots
that serve as safety valves for extremely
high pressure. Due to subduction, a
geological phenomenon connected to
tectonic plates, one of which is found
along Pakistan's coastline, these mud
volcanoes are common. Mud volcanoes
operate differently from conventional
volcanoes, which erupt ash, lava, and
sulphur dioxide. They release mud and
methane gas. Sometimes, the gas plumes
from these volcanoes catch fire for no
apparent reason, sending flames upward.
The Chandragup Mud Volcano-1 is
the biggest and tallest known mud
volcano among these volcanoes. The
site where Chandragup Mud Volcano-1
is located is a complex of three mud
volcanoes (Chandragup 1, Chandragup
2, and Chandragup 3). Chandragup
Mud Volcano-1 is also known as
Chandar-Gup or Chandrakup, which
means Volcano of the Moon. It stands
towering and noticeable in the arid
desert tract. The Chandragup mud
volcanoes are situated in the Lasbela
District next to the village of
Chandragup, around 100 km from
Uthal, the district's administrative
centre. On the Makran Coastal
Highway (N10), west of Karachi, this
mud volcano may be reached. A 1-foot
by 1-foot signboard that reads "Sapt
Post" marks the turnoff to the volcano,
which is 38 km from the Hungol River.
After turning the road at this sign and
travelling 10 kilometres into the dirt
paths that lead to the Arabian Sea, one
will find the mud volcano. The tallest
mud volcano is 300 feet tall. It has a
mud lake inside its crater that
occasionally overflows, and the
diameter of the hole is 49 feet. Due to
the overflows, the northwest sides of
this volcano have taken on a black hue.
There is another crater amid the
southern flanks; however, it is not
active right now.
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023 13
TOURISM
Chandragup 1 is well-known also
because it is a Hindu holy place of great
religious importance. They regard it as
a place of worship and a manifestation
of Shiva. They refer to it as Baba
Chandragup. According to mythology, a
Hindu saint named Baba Chandrakup
once walked barefoot for tens of
thousands of kilometres. His hard walk
over a whole year included everything
from sweltering summer days to
nonstop monsoon rains, bitterly cold
winters in December, and dusty
windstorms. Despite these unusual
seasons, he suffered hunger and thirst,
but his patience and persistence
allowed him to continue. He
encountered thousands of individuals Rugged Terrain of Baluchistan Rugged Terrain with object seems like the sculpture of carved by old civilizations
in hundreds of wards and cities along
the way, teaching fraternity, fair play,
and humility to them. His mission was
to improve the world by encouraging
people to practise forgiveness and
kindness, two qualities that are similar
to those of God but which humans are
also capable of. The saint eventually
arrived at the base of this magnificent
mountain. He chose to stay there and
carry out his objective of preaching
moral principles after being moved by
the beauty and peace of the location. He
used to climb the mountain every day
and sit at the top, where his vision
would allow him to see the entirety of
the Creator's works. Every blow of this
air would make him realise the
Creator's amazing creativity and Mountains look like structures of castles or walls of any fort with columns having decorative capitals
beauty, sending him into a trance as he
bring the mud that comes out of it wonderland. Baluchistan's beauty has the lack of basic amenities and security beauty. I claim that Hingol's
sat on top. He could feel the calm,
home and use it to construct little undoubtedly great potential to concerns on the highway leading to archaeology is among the best sites
soothing breeze touching his face. Years
cottages that they believe will bring luck strengthen the local economy by Gwadar. The main challenge faced by on the earth. Since I have an
passed while he preached and praised
to their homes. Additionally, the top of boosting tourism. Princess of Hope and travellers and tourists travelling to experience rather than a love of
the Creator, and he came to the sad
the volcano offers a good vantage point Hingol National Parks have seen an Gwadar in their own automobiles is the mysteries and narratives, I may not
realisation that, despite his years of
from which to see the Arabian Sea and increase in tourists over time, but little absence of gas stations. The absence of accept the individuals who went
efforts, he had failed in his noble
the coastal road. This location has the has been done to protect this cultural any eating facility or resting place is here just once and claimed that the
objective of improving this planet. He
capacity to provide you with a once-in- legacy because these natural wonders another problem. Therefore, it is mountain forms and other objects
begged God to take him into the coffer
a-lifetime experience. were previously unnoticed by the essential to offer basic amenities like had been formed by wind and water
of this mountain because he was so
After discussing some of the general public due to poor hotels, fuel stations, and restaurants to erosion. It seems impossible. The
discouraged by the pervasive
attractive spots in Baluchistan, it is communication and a lack of transit accommodate tourists, which in turn same sphinx, which was constructed
dishonesty and injustice all around
evident that this region with its vast infrastructure. The Makran Coastal boosts Gwadar's economy. in Egypt, is part of our history but is
him. When he prayed, the earth
history and landscape feels like an Highway, however, has made this I addition, researchers must pay less valuable since fewer people are
trembled, the mud volcano got open,
injured civilization which is still alive, location more accessible, and it is hoped attention to explore the wonders of aware of this country's history.
and the saint was taken within. Even
breathing and taking its value on that visitors from all over the world will this region. I argue that the nation that What should we do? We need to
after spending countless years within
highest stage by its own foots. visit this location and support the claims ownership of this land is develop plans to investigate the
the mud mountain, he still cries
No one can argue about the economies of Baluchistan and Pakistan. completely ignorant of all that still legacy of this civilizations and there
whenever he notices the unfairness and
importance of this region from a Additionally, one of the problems exists and may be greatly appreciated is a need to investigate these
lies that are still prevalent in the world,
recreational perspective, it is a tourist preventing people to go to this area is on our planet, including its natural Balochistani landmarks.
and his tears manifest as mud
eruptions from the mountain. Hindus
and Muslims from Pakistan as well as
India participate in a yearly four-day
pilgrimage that is conducted by sadhus
and hatt yogis in April. In an effort to
imitate the saint's journey, the
pilgrimage follows in his footsteps and
travels barefoot from the western
border of the Thar Desert to
Chandragup mud volcano. It then
follows a route towards the Arabian Sea
before returning to the dry land of
Balochistan. In a canyon in
Balochistan's Lyari Tehsil, the Hinglaj
Mata Temple serves as the pilgrimage's
destination. The most significant Shakti
Peethas in Hinduism include Hinglaj Direction of mountains are different in every location shows that their
Mata. This shrine is thought to be the Different kind of mountain landscape of Baluchistan forms are directed by the sea wind
location where Sati's head fell. The Shri
Hinglaj Mata shrine is entered only
after offering respect to Baba
Chandrakup, according to pilgrims that
visit the volcano.
The pilgrimage's hike up
Chandragup is a significant ritual. Up
until the construction of 460 stairs,
climbing this volcano was not a simple
task. To fulfil the desires, one must go
through Hingol National Park's
treeless, unearthly-looking landscapes,
through dust storms, and in the
sweltering heat, as well as climb this The Chandragup Mud Volcano-1 staircase built by
The Chandragup Mud Volcano-1 MPA Baluchistan Makhi Sham Lal Lashi View from the top of The Chandragup Mud Volcano-1
volcano. They spend the night praying
at the volcano's foothills before
climbing to the peak to pray to the
volcano's god for the accomplishment
of their wishes. Many of the individuals
who come here seeking shifa (healing)
from illnesses do indeed find relief from
physical ills. The ultimate purpose of
the pilgrimage, however, is to achieve
spiritual healing and cleansing in
support of the weeping saint's mission.
Another Hindu ritual associated with
this mountain has individuals
ascending to the highest point and
sitting at the mud volcano's mouth
while praying to God for the fulfilment
of their wishes. After the prayers, a
coconut is ceremoniously thrown into
the mud volcano's opening. It is
interesting to note that coconuts from
the mountain's opening descend down
its internal channels and emerge near
the Coast Guard's seaward locations,
where they are savoured by the soldiers
tasked with guarding Pakistan's
coastline. Additionally, some people
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023
TALKING ARCHITECURE

PHILOSOPHY IS BIRTHED FROM ORIGINAL THOUGHT

M A MOKTADAR
BY AR. ALI ARSALAN PASHA
PHOTOS COURTESY NAQVI & SIDDIQUI

M
ohammad Abdul Moktadar was born in 1934
in Hyderabad Deccan and moved to Pakistan
in 1952. He graduated in 1960 and was made
partner in successive years in Naqvi and
Siddiqui Associates, responsible for heading the new branch
overseeing the rise of Islamabad. It has been an absolute
privilege meeting one of the industry greats and conversing
with him on his ascent from early beginnings in Karachi to his
revered position today in the Architecture community of
Pakistan. I would like to highlight what an exceptional
privilege it was to be in his presence and I would like to
officially thank him for dealing with me with such patience. I
have always been a proponent of the thought, that
enlightenment is not age dependant or time bound.
Epiphanies are never constrained by time and the spiritual
cognisance of an individual determines their elevation
towards spiritual clarity. It is only after meeting Moktadar
sahab that I have realised how spiritual clarity grows through
time, into spiritual purity; and enlightenment once achieved,
has a temporal manifestation, towards exaltation.

ARCHI TIMES (AT): Sir, it is an honour and a

privilege to meet you, thank you for taking time out to
see me. If I may begin, from the beginning. You moved
to Pakistan, in the early 50s. What happened then?
Abdul Moktadar (AM): Well, after moving to Karachi, I
was admitted to the Karachi School of Architecture, where I
received my professional education, graduating in 1960. I was
fortunate enough to join Naqvi and Siddiqui, where in just a
few years I was made a partner in the firm. In the early 60s I
was directed to move to Rawalpindi with my colleague engineer
Qamar Aijaz Alavi, and set up the new office of the firm there,
in order to handle projects for the new capital being built at the
time. The office eventually moved to Islamabad, with myself as
the new director. The firm that exists today, had later become
independent but retained the 'Naqvi and Siddiqui' name, so as
to assign due loyalty to the original predecessor.

AT: Your remarkable contribution to the

profession has produced significant works of
Architecture. Could you name some of the projects
you have worked on?
AM: Well, I have enjoyed working on the Zarai Taraqiati
Bank building in Islamabad, as well as the Senate and Cabinet
Division complexes. The GIK Institute in Topi and Data Darbar
Complex in Lahore have also been interesting and fulfilling
projects. Other than that there are numerous others which I
have been fortunate to be part of.

AT: In a recent meeting, Ar. Anwar Said told me

that in the formative years of Pakistan, becoming
an Architect was regarded as straying from the
norm, especially considering the scarcity of
available institutions and offices. Having known
this, what compelled you to pursue an
Architectural degree in Pakistan? And how did you
fare in the professional environment?
AM: That's an interesting question. Well, I loved art, I
loved painting. I had completed my intermediate studies
when the School of Architecture opened in Karachi, with Ar.
Mehdi Ali Mirza as Principal. Since I was a painter my
friends encouraged me to apply to the school, rather than
pursuing an engineering degree. At the entrance exam, there
was a sculpture that we had to draw, which I drew and
passed through. It was a 3 year degree at the time. After
completing my first year, I joined Naqvi and Siddiqui as a
part-time employee. There was a lot of work to do, a great
deal of development going on with, schools, hospitals,
housing underway. We did all the work, learnt all the
requirements and stayed in the office for months. It was very
delicate work, we had to be careful with each drawing, which
were considered precious commodities. Both Naqvi sahab
and Siddiqui sahab were educated in Delhi. Naqvi sahab was
very creative, while Siddiqui sahab was more focused on
requirements and delivering an economically viable solution.
Being a painter, I gravitated more towards Naqvi sahab, so
much so that, in his tutelage I became so proficient in
sketching, that Naqvi sahab would do a sketch halfway and
then pass it on to me for completion - and you couldn't tell
the difference between our lines.
AT: You seem to have developed a mental
affinity with him. Please tell me, when Naqvi and
Siddiqui opened a new branch in Rawalpindi, you
were sent here to work on the development of
Islamabad, as the new capital. Do you have any
recollection of your initial thoughts on Doxiadis
and his master-plan for the city?
AM: Well, the Chairman of CDA at the time, came to
Karachi, to discuss the design of Islamabad. Naqvi sahab
directed me to go there as a partner and utilise the
opportunities available. There was a great deal of housing done,
especially for the army and secretaries, F-6 and G-6 sectors
were emerging. That time has now passed, people grow in those
environments and mould them accordingly with time. I didn't
meet Doxiadis. I came to Islamabad in 1963 or 1964, the city
was empty and the secretariat was being commissioned. When
I saw the master-plan I didn't approve of it very much. The
sectors are fine, some of the commercial areas are fine, but Blue
Area as a Central Business District, is completely wrong. It has
been designed as a linear stretch of commercial activities,
which is decentralised and quite pointless. There are no
landmarks. There need to be squares and fountains, points of
assembly. The placement is fine, but Blue Area itself is
inconsistent and counter-productive.
AT: I completely agree, Blue Area could've been
solved in a much better manner. What mode of
thought governs your lines? Have you developed a
manner with which you tackle a project and has that
manifested into a design approach?
AM: No, there is no design approach. Take a house, for
instance. It can be done with a form-finding approach, working
from outside in. Or you can approach it the opposite manner,
by solving the plan and then moving to volumes and masses.
However, one must always think about area and space usage. I
have always worked in great detail during the concept stages,
solving structure and space with the concept. That is how you
can develop a substantial connection between thought-process
and execution. We used to work during a time, that if a drawing
was completed today, it was being built tomorrow. There was
no room for error, the concept and the requirements must
always work hand-in-hand. I have had enough exposure to be
able to handle such scale of projects, but I believe the emerging
architects will not be able to utilise such opportunities just yet.
I try to make these opportunities possible, I give young
architects a chance to submit designs to me for a specific
project, and if it is successful it gets built. I have only recently
begun doing this, if a design is substantial, our office provides
support to develop the tender and working drawings.
 15
ARCHITECT OF THE MONTH

There are very few buildings that are on an acceptable standard, some by Nayyar Ali Dada, a few by Habib Fida Ali and only a
few others. They are on a standard, creating substantial works of Architecture. Most of the rest is just required space filler,
filling in the blanks. You can judge by yourself, if you understand. The thing is, you youngsters get lost in philosophy and
method; you get bogged down. You minds must be free, free to roam, to explore. How does one get free? By reaching a level of
original thought. Look at Dubai, look at many places abroad. A lot of buildings are copied, you cannot escape them. You see a
line or a volume, while designing; your mind will run around it, wrestle with it, emulate it, reject it or mould it. You cannot
escape that. I’ve never taken influence from anything, I solve the brief and the program. Philosophy is birthed from original
thought. Mine hasn’t so far, not yet. Look at my buildings, look at the works I have completed. Perhaps you may be able to find
some meaning in them, you may be able to get the gist.

ARCHI TIMES Interview | Photographs courtesy: Architect

Cabinet Division Block, Islamabad

Parliament House, Islamabad

AT: Have you worked with a particular design
philosophy or do you look at each project separately?
AM: Well, no there hasn't been any philosophy. My
projects are time-dependant, as is my thought process as a
designer. They have evolved with time. Not with a philosophy.
AT: That makes sense. In that case, what are your
thoughts on your work as an Architect? Has a
philosophy emerged from the projects themselves?
Have you faced any limitations, contextual or
otherwise?
AM: To be very frank, we don't have materials here. We
grow, but we have nothing so far. There are very few
buildings that are on an acceptable standard, some by
Nayyar Ali Dada, a few by Habib Fida Ali and only a few
others. They are on a standard, creating substantial works of
Architecture. Most of the rest is just required space filler,
filling in the blanks. You can judge by yourself, if you
understand. The thing is, you youngsters get lost in
philosophy and method; you get bogged down. You minds
must be free, free to roam, to explore. How does one get
free? By reaching a level of original thought. Look at Dubai,
look at many places abroad. A lot of buildings are copied,
you cannot escape them. You see a line or a volume, while
designing, your mind will run around it, wrestle with it,
emulate it, reject it or mould it. You cannot escape that. I've
never taken influence from anything, I solve the brief and
the program. Philosophy is birthed from original thought.
Mine hasn't so far, not yet. Look at my buildings, look at the
works I have completed. Perhaps you may be able to find
some meaning in them, you may be able to get the gist.
AT: The arch in Sir Syed Memorial Complex, is
a monumental element, retaining within itself a
grandeur. The same arch, is used in the GIKI
Auditorium, with a more humane implementation.
In 'A Vida e um Sopro', Oscar Niemeyer explains a
similar variation in scales of external columns,
between the Palacio de Planalto and the Supremo
Tribunal Federal buildings in Brasilia, by
referring to formal unity. Is there a thesis
associated with your employment of scale
variations? How did you sustain the proportions?
AM: The successful variation in scale comes from
practice and by concentrating on the project. You may say
that a person has 2-3 levels of learning. When you employ
clean and pure focus, you become elevated, to the highest
cognitive level. In that state of consciousness, you will start
seeing solutions, you will start seeing forms. As a mode of
thought, you should never draw your first thought. Wait for
it, let it form in your mind, leave it open rather than getting
trapped by it. Physical and mental cleanliness elevate you
to new levels where all answers come to you, rather than
the other way round. I have met Sadequain, he used to
come to my home. He has exemplified this mode of thought
in his painting, when man purely concentrates on
something, it is solved. Then, your hand needs to be skilled
in order to execute the solution. You need proportions in
your hand. There was a time, when we could design a 12' by
12' room on a 1/8 scale, without needing measuring
equipment. We could imagine it in proportions. Today's
computational technology has diminished that, but pen and
paper still retain that opportunity.
AT: You worked with E D Stone in the Cabinet
division. What do you recall of that experience? What
were your thoughts on Mr. Stone as an architect?
AM: That was such a long time ago. He had a style, but I
wasn't very fond of it. Just look at the perspective created of the
National Assembly and Senate. There is no grandeur in the
form. It should've been more graceful.
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023
Commercial Building Daily Jang Blue Area, Islamabad
AT: I couldn't agree more. Let's move on to some
of your work. GIK Institute, Sir Syed Memorial
Complex, Data Darbar Complex follow a similar
aesthetic, leaning towards arches and colonnades.
On the other hand, KRL Hospital, PARC and
Parliament Complex follow horizontal windows and
platonic volumes. How do you unite these divergent
aesthetics in your internal motivations?
AM: I don't think I have ever approached a project
thinking about how it fares with the work I have done
previously, or whether its formal arrangement would carry
allusions to other works of architecture. Your own purity
and devotion, create for you. When you concentrate in
depth, you simply begin to see levels and masses. Once you
see them, how you arrange them is up to you. They depend
on your skill, your proportions and your proficiency as a
designer. It requires a great deal of thought and thought
like everything else, evolves with time. But, I don't see
them as poetry in stone or a visual manifestation of my
internal motivations.
AT: I have only recently learnt that you work for a
selected clientele and maintain a low profile. Doesn't
that diminish the opportunities you may be able to
utilize as an experienced contributor to Architecture?
AM: Yes, I do work for a selected clientele now. If by
Agricultural Development Bank of Pakistan (ADBP), Islamabad
utilization of opportunities you are referring to financial
benefits, then I'd say that money has never been the
objective in my work. It has never been the purpose
because you can never satisfy that goal; the thirst never
quenches. You should use this profession to create healthy
and ethical living spaces. You need to bring man closer to
nature, you need to balance the dialogue between the two.
Take for example, a house in Karachi. It needs to have
practical use of wind, due to the prevailing wind of the
sea. You do that by using wind-catchers. And the sky, the
sky is important. The sky influences man, it gives him
exposure. Allow natural light to fall into the house, create
courtyards and verandahs. People in villages are human
loving, there is plenty of interaction with nature. People in
apartments are closed, they are detached from sky, light,
water, wind. Buildings, as a default, must allow this
interaction, they must encourage it.
AT: Any thoughts on the Architecture of
Pakistan? Most of us feel that we are lagging far
behind the world. In your years of practice, have you
observed a progression?
AM: There is no clear distinction between us and the
world. What is Pakistani architecture, what is British
architecture today or Indian architecture for that matter?
The primary concern is, that we have not entered a stage to
Head Office Building, Telecom Foundation (TF) islambad
16
ARCHITECT OF THE MONTH
move to that level of expertise and standards. To tackle
such issues we need educational dominance. A while ago, I
was in the United States and I observed that their work and
education is beyond our current horizons of thought. We
are bound and we bind ourselves, since we cannot identify
ourselves. The country, the nation needs to bring the light
from within. We can't simply make culture, the nation
needs to be free and we need to give ourselves time to
evolve into our own cultural context.
AT: There has been a tremendous increase in the
number of schools which are setting up new
departments of Architecture. Do you think this
would create an imbalance between supply and
demand of Architects in the market? Is this a
positive step?
AM: It is the right move. There is a need for schools, a
need for education which is being fulfilled. Consider the
Architects of Lahore. They have applied themselves to work
with brick and never copied anybody, producing good work
and bad. The students emerging from Lahore will have the
opportunity to follow this approach and give shape to an
original thought, which is the sole purpose of education.
AT: You have been associated with one of the
country's leading practices, for half a century,
PTCL Headquarter Building Complex, Islamabad
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023 17
ARCHITECT OF THE MONTH
responsible for shaping a
large part of Pakistan. I would
be the first to admit, that the
depth of your experience as a
practitioner dwarfs the avant-
garde motivations of
youngsters like me, with our
attempts to modernise and
revolutionise the country's
Architecture. What would be
your advice to the emerging
Architects of Pakistan?
AM: Firstly and most
importantly, never start on your
own. You never learn, you never
grow. You have to pass through a
process. You have to gradually
acquaint yourself with the client,
with monetary issues, with
documentation. All these things
need to considered, you need to
learn about all of them if you are
sincere; and Architecture
demands sincerity. You need to
impress upon the sensuous in
people, you must create pleasant
spaces through aesthetic
intervention and bring them
closer to nature. Upon
graduation, you come with merely
learnt knowledge, you have to
work with a good office for 3-4
years at least, before moving on
your own. The person who strikes Auditorium Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of, Engineering Sciences & Technology, TOPI, NWPF
out on their own, would merely
utilize their strengths and employ
their developed skillset, but they
will become settled themselves
rather than growing. Fresh
graduates and young architects
are quite impatient; they fail to
see the benefits of gradual
development. Also, you must love
the profession. I began working
for a very minimal salary, but
money was never the goal, I loved
the work. I developed gradually
and reached where I am today. By
default, a man eventually makes
his place in the world, you don't
need to go out and hunt for it;
nature will give it to you.

AT: Thank you for your

words of wisdom. Finally Sir,
large periods of focus, require
a substantial amount of time
and space for recuperation.
How do you detach from
Architecture? How do you
seek peace and enlightenment
in the world?
AM: I have reached an elderly
age but I have maintained a steady
routine for quite a while now. I
wake up early morning for prayer,
after which I read verses from the
Holy Quran and then a certain Head Office Building for PARC Islamabad
Tafseer on the same verses. After
that, I read verses from Rumi's
'Masnavi' and ponder on them for
quite a while. One must always
ponder. We, as a people, are so
capable; we have everything, but
we aspire towards spiritual filth.
Rumi says, we have been tied down
into our carnal desires, one doesn't
even depend on food. There have
been times when I have forgotten
to eat, because at my age I am
realising that I don't depend on it.
However, out of this spiritual filth,
we have youngsters who reach the
top of the world; God brings
flowers out of the mud. One must
aspire and one must get detached
from mortality. We spend life in
useless pursuits, we must take time
to read; to reflect, to ponder. For
the youth of the nation I would
certainly say, devote your time to
loving and honouring your parents.
Don't argue with them, listen to
them. But, more so than listening,
find opportunities every day to
please them, to be that light of joy
and happiness in their lives. That is
what is most important, because
they are the sole reason for your
existence in the world and one day
they will not be here anymore. One
must detach from futile pursuits
and confront the crux of their
existence, which can only be
achieved if you love your parents
unconditionally. FAST Office Complex Islamabad Annex ADBP, Islamabad
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023
GRAND JAMIA MOSQUE IDEAS DESIGN
Continued from Page 1
and volunteers. The Vice President IAP, Ar. A. Kabeer Malik
in his speech, acknowledging the commendable efforts of the
Institute of Architects Pakistan, jurors, winners, and the
whole team who has exerted efforts into making the event
possible. The crowd then cheers for the two latest interacting
bodies of IAP launched as the Chenab and Quetta chapters.
Concluding with material and product presentations by
the sponsors, Vice Chairman IAP, Ar. Salman Javaid Malik
shared an overview of the competition. Seeking a concept
design of the Grand Jamia Mosque to build on the main
boulevard road of Lahore Capital Smart City, a place for a
minimum of 2000 worshippers is expected to be the
landmark. Running through the book catalog of the Ideas
Competition 2023, the time approached us to award the
recognized ones. Recognition Awards were then presented to
the eminent jury members present at the event, Ar. Jahangir
Khan Sherpao, Ar. Shazia Qureshi and Ar. Ali Imran & the
Observers, Ar. Salman Javaid Malik , Ar. Khulda Aamir and
Mr. Farhan Siddiqui.
IAP received 45 registrations of which 25 submitted
theirentries. 1st, 2nd & 3rd Prizes with 2honorable
mentions were awarded by the eminent jury that consisted
of PresidentIAP Ar. Saad Mahmood Khan, Past President
IAP & Fellow IAP Ar. Ejaz Ahed,Past President IAP &
Fellow IAP Ar. Jahangir Khan Sherpao, Past PresidentCAA
& Fellow IAP Ar. Kalim Siddiqui, Past Vice Chairperson
IAP-RIC Ar. ShaziaQureshi, Project Director Lahore Smart
City Brig(R) Nadeem Aslam & ChiefArchitect Capital Smart
City. Certificate of appreciation, gift hampers bysponsors
were given with cash prizes of PKR 5 Lacs for 1st
WinnersAr. Faizan Tariq and Ar. Mirza Inayat
representing Archshire Islamabad, PKR 2Lacs to 2nd
Prize Winner Ar. Hamza Masood and Ar. Nida
ShahidMansoor representing DAZA Karachi and 1 Lac
awarded to the 3rdwinner, Ar. Humza Suhail Lahore.
The team of Akif Khan Architect & Associates, Ar. Akif
Khan, Ar. Abdullah Saeed, Ar. Isha Fateh Ullah, Ar. Haseeb
Noor and Ar. Zain Mehmood were awarded the first
honorable mention while a team of COMSATS, Lahore
Campus, Mr. Muhammad Zohaib, Mr. Rana Abdul Moiz, Ms.
Maham Jamil, and Mr. Muhammad Abu Bakar received the
second honorable mention.
Amongst a large audience fellows & senior architects
presented these awards. These were Architects Suhail Abbasi,
Sikandar Ajam Khan, Abdul Qayyum Hashmi, Salman
Mansoor, Azmat Zaidi, Jahangir Khan Sherpao, Arif Masood,
Usama Bin Murad, Kabeer Malik, Ejaz Qadri, Ibtesam
Peerzada, Faisal Arshad, Saifullah Siddiqui, Abdullah Khan
and Raweeda Himayat.
18
AWARDS
Mementos of Appreciation were presented to the
Sponsors, student volunteers from SADA NUST, COMSATS
Islamabad, and NCA Rawalpindi. Lastly, the Award of
Recognition presented to the contributors, the Competition
Convener, Ar. Salman Javaid Malik, Company Secretary IAP
Mr. Farhan Siddiqui and the Editor & Brand Designer of the
event, Ar. Syeda Neha Zaidi and Ar. Arslan Ejaz was
recognized as Convener Space Syntax Workshop.
The Chairman IAP-RIC Ar. Fawad Suhail Abbasi
especially recognized each and every member of his Executive
Committee and the recent Winners from RIC of the BAE-IAP
Faculty Award, Mehdi Ali Mirza Award and IAP Graduate
Award. Everyone was present at the occasion and was
requested to stand up and be recognized. They all received a
huge round of applause from the audience.
The night was filled with greetings and rejoicing of
architects and partners cherishing shared contributions
to the community, teachers acknowledging their
students budding as architects, and the budding
architects paying gratitude and admiration to their
mentors. Wrapped with a closing dinner adds all the
garnishing and flavor needed for the event.
IAP looks forward to many more bright days and
opportunities to come. Together we shall create the future
our nation truly deserves, Pakistan & IAP Zindabad.
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023 19
AWARDS

FIRST PRIZE - ARCHITECT FAIZAN TARIQ AND MIRZA INAYAT

SECOND PRIZE - ARCHITECT HAMZA MASOOD & NIDA SHAHID MANSOOR

THIRD PRIZE - ARCHITECT HUMZA SUHAIL

ARCHI TIMES FEBRUARY 2023 22
NEWAGE CABLES ENGINEERS SERIES

ENGINEER
MOHAMMAD ASIF SIDDIQUI

Mr. Asif Siddiqui is the Electrical Engineer and Chief Executive at Sigma
Ventures (Pvt) Ltd. He established M/s Sigma Ventures in 2004 to build and
maintain Telecom infrastructure. Later on undertaking major electrical
engineering works, he was also elected President Rotary Club of Karachi
Universal in 2005 and past president of The Institution of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers Pakistan (IEEEP), he was awarded LifeTime Achievement
Award by IEEEP in 2022. Mr. Asif Siddiqui was the elected Member, Executive
Committee, Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association in 2008-2015. In
this exclusive interview to ARCHI TIMES Newage Cable Engineer Interview
Series, he talked about his successful professional journey and related issues.
ARCHI TIMES FEBRUARY 2023
ARCHI TIMES (AT): Before we begin talking about
your engineering, would it be good to know your
educational background?
Asif Siddiqui (AS): I did my Graduation in Electrical
Engineering from Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh,
India in 1969 and migrated to Pakistan in 1970. Joined
KESC in October 70 and went do my Masters in Electrical
Engineering from Oklahoma State University, Stillwater,
OK, USA in 1975. Came back to Pakistan in 1977 and
resigned from KESC to establish business in 1978.
AT: Tell us about your firm and its role?
AS: Originally we established M/s General Electro-
mecanique (Pvt) Ltd. under which prestigious Electrical
works like Pak Saudi Fertilizer, Mirpur Mathelo, SMPC
Complex & 1700 Hot & Cold Rolling Mills of Pakistan,
Village Electrification all over Pakistan, 22 Grid Stations of
KESC, Telephone network of considerable part of Karachi
under ALCATEL, 16 Main Switching Centers all over
Pakistan for Telenor besides many others like it were
NEWAGE CABLES ENGINEERS SERIES
executed. Sigma Ventures (Pvt) Ltd. was originally created
to provide support like Maintenance of facilities built by
General Electro-mecanique (Pvt) Ltd. besides maintenance
of 500 BTS sites of Warid Telecom. Later on it took over the
complete role M/s General Electro-mecanique (Pvt) Ltd.
Presently while on one one hand we are still building EHT
networks we are heavily involved with green energy being the
first to produce & use Biodiesel in Pakistan, supporters of
Edge Buildings, promoters and builders of Solar Systems etc.
AT: What kind of services and programs are
offered at Sigma Ventures, and how are these
designed?
AS: At Sigma Ventures (Pvt) Ltd. we strongly believe in
Hands On training of engineers bringing out their
innovative skills. Initially we give them a project to study,
then to design and finally to execute. Idea always to make
them leaders in their fields. Now these projects may involve
Extra High Voltage or Industrial Distribution or Solar
Systems.
23
AT: What should be the role of engineers in our
society?
AS: Engineers should be leaders in their fields by
innovating at all steps using the knowledge they have
gained during education. They have to firmly believe that
the knowledge they have gained is not just to get the degree
but to be applied in every aspect of life.
AT: The role of engineer you have mentioned, do
you think engineers are playing their role today?
A S : No. Hardly. Most of them believe the learned
knowledge has nothing to do with their practical life. Many
times I had to ask them to take out the text books they had
buried.
AT: How can the efficiency of air quality,more
green spaces, decarbonizing of buildings and
electricity generation,be improved in Pakistan?
AS: Very simple. Just grow as many plants & trees as
possible, make your buildings as airy as possible and
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023
cover all roofs with Solar plates.
AT: Nowadays global warming and climate change
are the main challenges, how are you addressing
these challenges, particularly in Pakistan?
AS: We in general don’t give a damn about climate
change. Even if they install solar systems, it is to save
money and not because of climate change. They
would chop a tree without feeling any guilt if it serves
their purpose. Actually the common man in Pakistan
is so overburdened by lack of finance, lack of water,
lack of gas and lack of electricity that they don’t care
about climate change.
So what do we do? We sell them renewables on the basis of
NEWAGE CABLES ENGINEERS SERIES
economics and coax them to grow trees to make the place
look better.
AT: What type of challenges and difficulties the
profession of engineering is facing today in
Pakistan?
AS: First, they don’t get a job. Even if they get it, it may be
too orthodox to promote any new ideas. If it is a
Government job, he has only to learn how to stop work to
be successful. In most of the cases their bosses are non-
technical and do not understand the problem.
AT: Recently we have seen many cases of fire broke
in the buildings. In your opinion, what are the
main reasons for these fire incidents?
24
AS: In most cases it is due to faulty wiring and faulty
electrical systems if not deliberate.
AT: What are the considerations for building safety
in terms of designing and what important tips
would you like to give designers and the public at
large?
AS: In short, since you cannot live in however beautiful a
building you make, until you have electricity, please give it
its due share. Most of the time it is the last thing on
builders' minds. Please get the Electrical System properly
designed and not rely on the contractor doing your wiring.
Use proper cable and switchgear not because of its beauty
but its functionality.
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023
AT: What measures would you suggest to be
considered for reducing electrical loads in
buildings?
AS: Use Nature instead of getting away from it. Biggest
load is always the air conditioning. Its placement and
prevention of thermal leakages should be particularly
taken care of.
AT: What are your views about the usage of solar
panels in buildings? Do you think solar panels are
the best option for reducing electrical loads?
NEWAGE CABLES ENGINEERS SERIES
AS: No doubt about it. I believe that there should not be
even a single roof which is not covered by Solar panels. I
also believe that all Nullahs in the city should be covered by
solar panels. This is the only investment with a 33% return
while making our planet greener.
AT: What do you do in your free time and also tell
us about your hobbies?
AS: If you had asked me this question 30 years back I
would have said sports. I have played every one. Now
however my only but very expensive hobby is travelling. My
25
belief is that when we go up there God will say ” You bloody
fool, I gave you such a diverse and pretty world and you did
not even see that.” I don’t want to feel guilty there so I am
trying to cover every part of this beautiful world in
whatever way I can. Otherwise I read. Anything I can get
my hands on.
AT: What is your advice to the younger generation?
AS: It is your only life. Don’t waste it. It might seem
that you have a lot of time but it is not. Take my word
for it as a Senior.
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023 26
BOOK REVIEW

ARCHITECTURAL INHERITANCE
AND EVOLUTION IN INDIA
BOOK REVIEW BY:
PROF. JIT KUMAR GUPTA
BOOK AUTHOR & CURATOR:
AR. APURVA BOSE DUTTA
BOOK PUBLISHER: ALTRIM
PUBLISHERS
BOOK PUBLICATION: MAY 2023
BOOK IMAGES PROVIDED BY
APURVA BOSE DUTTA

Mapping and unmasking

forty-four architects within the
framework of ten families and
illustrating their ideologies,
perceptions, approach,
understanding and delivery of
architecture remains challenging
and involves much multitasking.
Architectural Inheritance and
Evolution in India, a recently
launched book, accomplishes this
task effectively and features ten
architectural families from India
that remain unique, different,
and distinct in adopting and
pursuing architecture as a
profession and practice. The
book has been authored and
curated by Indian architectural
writer Apurva Bose Dutta, known
for her meticulous approach and
clinical synthesis in the art and
science of architectural writing.
The book examines how the
subject and profession of
architecture, ably led by senior
generations, and appropriately architectural practice and promoting teaching-learning in which the author has been able to document and map with great
supported by mid-generations, architecture. If modesty, grace, and righteousness are the qualities sensitivity and clinical precision.
has been put on a fast trajectory embedded and cherished by the Kanvindes, the Kembhavis Another unique feature that makes the book different, distinct,
of growth and development by trademark their ode to architecture, culture, and evolution as the exclusive, and valuable is the honest, transparent, objective approach
the millennials. If maintaining governing principles of their architectural practice. and methodology adopted by the author for mapping and deciphering
professional ethics and If Khans manifest conviction, strength, and liberation in their the families and family members. This demanding objective has been
promoting social values were at approach, Puris remain distinct, resolute, regularly evolving, achieved by conducting the study based on well-defined and pre-
the core of architectural devolving, and never static in their architectural discourse. While the defined researched parameters. The narrative defined for documenting
practice by the senior and mid- largest clan of architects in an architectural family in India, the Shahs- the families remains comprehensive and inclusive. The framework
generations, it is adapting and Gores family, exemplify faith in embracing self-belief over privilege prepared for mapping each family, besides being based on exhaustive
intelligently managing the and legacy, the family of Shahs-Khannas have created an architectural research, also includes detailed discussions with each family covering
diktats of commercialisation, canvas with eclectic architectural strokes while learning and growing the length and breadth of decades of the journey of each documented
which is largely prevalent in the under the shadow of a legend in architecture. If ethics, integrity, and family in architecture. The discussions include significant areas in
younger generations' approach. solidarity are the hallmarks of the legendary Sharma family in their terms of;
This trend appears to have been architectural practice spanning seven decades, Zacharias© young and * family's introduction and exposure to architecture
followed by the majority of the energetic family stand out with their passion, sensitivity, and * changing perception of architecture through generations
families documented and cheerfulness while paying their ode to architecture. * evolution of career path and working equations
defined in the book. A close look at the book's intent, coupled with evaluating the * overlap and differences prevailing in professional philosophy,
As one gradually and keenly contents and understanding the scope and coverage, clearly indicates its ideologies, and working methods opted
undertakes a journey browsing potential to contribute to the vocabulary of Indian architecture * structure and values cherished by the family members
through the 150 printed pages of significantly. Certain aspects of the book make it distinct and unique in * challenges and advantages encountered while having architects in the
the book, one can comprehend India's existing architectural literature. It is the first book which family
how each family has remained documents logically and maps rationally the families of architects, both * valued architectural projects and reasons for being valued
distinct and distinguished while individually and collectively, highlighting how each family member * diverse mediums of the contribution of the family members to the
serving the architecture perceives and practises the profession and how they collectively and profession
profession. If the family of jointly, as a social unit, cherish and promote professional values. * impact on social life by adopting architecture as a way of life and
Ghoshs probes deeper into Dedicated essays on the different families bring lucidity in how every learning
negotiating theory and practice documented family has its exclusive knowledge drivers, values, ideas, Images of some special and favourite families' projects, along
in architecture, the Jains approach, culture, professional philosophy, liking and disliking, agony with memorable images of their journeys, make the book distinct
epitomise morality, humility, and ecstasy, happiness, and sorrows, while treading a long journey in and unique.
and simplicity while practising architecture. This underlines the uniqueness of different families, The contents of the epilogue make the book analytical and provide
ARCHI TIMES JUNE 2023 27
BOOK REVIEW

The book examines how the

subject and profession of
architecture, ably led by
senior generations, and
appropriately supported by
mid-generations, has been put
on a fast trajectory of growth
and development by the
millennials. If maintaining
professional ethics and
promoting social values were at
the core of architectural practice
by the senior and mid-
generations, it is adapting and
intelligently managing the
diktats of commercialisation,
which is largely prevalent in the
younger generations' approach.
This trend appears to have been
followed by the majority of the
families documented and defined
in the book.

sufficient and quality food for thought to the readers, where the
author reflects and synthesises each family in terms of their
debuts in architecture, architectural dynamics impacted by
professional and personal attributes, and their trials,
tribulations, and adaptions. The families are mapped based on
their working philosophies, ideologies and value systems, and
the individual family members in terms of personalities,
interests, gender dynamics, educational background, and
geographical locations. By implying these ten families as case
studies representing the large volume of architectural families
in India, Apurva investigates how architecture effectively
emerges as the common anchor for different architectural
families in India, strengthening their familial bonds.
Observing the depth of the study and extent of coverage of
the listed families of eminent architects of the country, I would
like to place on record my appreciation for Apurva for her
dedication, commitment, sincerity, and the quantum of hard
work invested in decoding the listed families with objectivity,
conviction, clarity, and honesty. The book will serve as an
invaluable resource for students, professionals, faculty, and
researchers operating and involved in the domain of profession
and academics in architecture. It is hoped that the book will
not only simplify but also help understand the complexities of
architecture through the messages and learning provided by
the distinguished families in the book, which will empower
readers to become better professionals.
I hope Apurva continues her passion for writing,
investigating, and documenting various unexplored areas of
architecture to make it more visible, useful, dynamic, and
qualitative. This book will surely serve the larger cause of
humanity, communities, societies, and states by making this
planet more sustainable and a better place to live and work.
The book is supported by the Council of Architecture of
India. For more information on the book, please visit:
www.apurvabose.com/book-architectural-inheritance-and-
evolution-in-india/

Prof. Jit Kumar Gupta Apurva Bose Dutta

Chandigarh-based Prof. Jit Kumar Gupta has more
than five decades of professional experience in
architectural education, urban planning, policy
planning, urban legislation, capacity building in
sustainability, green buildings, affordable housing,
smart cities, urban laws, urban missions, rural
planning, public participation, and urban local
bodies. Having held leading designations with
academic and professional councils and being an
advisor to acclaimed architecture and urban
planning bodies, he has published 13 books and
over 300 technical papers. He has recently been
awarded the Madhav Achwal Gold Medal for
lifetime contribution to architectural education by
the Indian Institute of Architects.
Indian author, award-winning architectural journalist,
curator, editor, and educator Ar. Apurva Bose Dutta
(www.apurvabose.com) works at the intersection of
architectural design writing, thinking, discourse, curation,
journalism, criticism, and communications. Apurva's passion
for communication and academic background has translated
into her unique 18-year career with the AEC industry,
involving global collaborations with prominent multimedia
publishing houses, firms, organisations, and institutions
affiliated with architecture, design, and building. Apurva is
extensively recognised for her pioneering initiatives in
architectural writing. Her well-received first book,
Architectural Voices of India, documented the voices of
nineteen distinguished Indian architects and built a framework
for a discourse on architecture.