I had the honour to present on “Architecture and Politics” as part of the ongoing series at TU Wien, on 25.06.2025 at the Hörsaal 7 - Schütte-Lihotzk Hall.
My presentation showcased the journey of Chandigarh—the first planned city of India post-Independence—from its modernist conception to its evolving political, cultural, and administrative landscape. It reflected on how shifting regional politics have shaped the city’s planning, governance, and architectural identity over time.
By tracing the city’s transition from its visionary origins to its contemporary complexities, I discussed the interplay of multiple actors operating today and the continuous negotiations that influence Chandigarh’s built environment.
A meaningful opportunity to contribute to the dialogue on how architecture and politics intersect to shape urban futures.
31st Punjab Open Amateur Ladies Golf Championship
After nearly a decade, I indulged myself with a three-day interlude to participate in the 31st Punjab Open Women’s Tournament. The event, conducted in stroke-play format, was impeccably organized by the Ladies Section of the Chandigarh Golf Club and brought together 100 lady golfers from across the country
Happy to report that I finished tied 5th in the Silver Bowl (19–24 handicap) category, posting a three-day gross of 291. Without a doubt, the tournament offered a refreshing reset.
Kalagram “Baithak” for Chandigarh “Manthan”
I was invited to participate at the Chandigarh Manthan, a platform that brought together residents’ welfare associations, market bodies, industry groups, and professionals to sit together & articulate the city’s challenges, and explore constructive solutions. The gathering was organised at Kalagram, Manimajra on 6th July, 2025.
During my address, I drew attention to several critical urban concerns that require immediate focus. Chandigarh continues to carry incomplete or under-utilised projects—such as Janmarg, the Leisure Valley, and the broader integration of public spaces—that fundamentally influence the city’s experience and its future potential. I emphasised the need to treat Chandigarh’s unique legacy not as a static symbol, but as a powerful resource that must be channelled to benefit its citizens.
I am certain that the city deserves an urban trajectory that matches its legacy—and empowers its residents with a better, more dynamic future. And such stakeholder’s discussions are vital to the future.
Venice Biennale of Architecture-
In June 2025, I had the opportunity to visit the Venice Architecture Biennale, an experience that resonated deeply with me both professionally and personally. Long intrigued by its global influence and the conversations it shapes, I had felt this event calling me for years. Stepping into the Giardini and Arsenale—spaces that have historically hosted some of the most progressive architectural dialogues since the Biennale’s architecture edition began in 1980—was both inspiring and grounding.
This year’s curatorial direction foregrounded themes of ecological responsibility, the politics of land, and the redefinition of public space—subjects that hold immense relevance for Indian cities and, in particular, Chandigarh. As I explored pavilions addressing adaptive reuse, climate-responsive design, and community-led urbanism, I found myself repeatedly reflecting on Chandigarh’s own trajectory: the unfinished modernist vision, the pressures of urban stagnation, and the critical need for integrative planning frameworks.
Some exhibits struck a particularly personal chord, especially those that examined the tension between legacy and renewal. They mirrored Chandigarh’s challenge of preserving its architectural identity while evolving to meet contemporary needs. India’s contributions were equally compelling, demonstrating how local practices can speak powerfully on global platforms when rooted in contextual intelligence and social equity.
Beyond the exhibitions, what stayed with me was the collaborative spirit—the sense that architecture’s future lies in collective thinking across geographies and disciplines. The Biennale reaffirmed my belief that cities like Chandigarh must engage in these global conversations, drawing from them the courage to innovate, adapt, and imagine new possibilities for the built environment.
2025