RELEASE OF Ar. SURINDER BAHGA’S BOOK, “FORM FOLLOWS ROOTS: ARCHITECTURE FOR INDIA -1985-2021″.

VETERAN INDIAN ARCHITECT SH. S.D. SHARMA RELEASED THE BOOK IN A FUNCTION HELD IN THE PRESS CLUB, CHANDIGARH.

MANY NOTED PROFESSIONALS FROM THE REGION ATTENDED THE FUNCTION.

CHANDIGARH 12/01/2024(BUREAU CORRESPONDENT): Heartiest Congratulations to Architect Surinder Bahga on the launch of his book ‘FORM FOLLOWS ROOTS’ today at the Press Club of Chandigarh. Renowned Architect Sh SD Sharma, was the Chief Guest, White Falcon House, the Publishers, and Architect Harveen Bhandari the moderator while the Foreword is written by well-known author Prof Robert Harbison from London.

The book, today at the Chandigarh Press Club, by reputed architect SD Sharma in the presence of many eminent prominent personalities of Chandigarh, architects, authors, and other professionals. In his presentation the author informed that the idea of the book was conceived nearly 23 years ago, it has been in the making for 8 years and the overall cost has turned out to be 22 Lakhs.

The book is edited by Turkey-based Architectural Historian Dr Ebru ÖzekeTökmeci, the book is an insight into the contemporary architecture of India from 1985 to 2021 including Bahga’s architectural work.

This book is supported by the Indian Council of Architecture and has been recommended in all Architecture Colleges in the country already. “Book will be a valuable addition to the literature on Architecture hence Council of Architecture approved its circulation in Indian universities”, said Architect Abhay Purohit, President of the Indian Council of Architecture.

He further said, “This publication is an endeavor to cover works of small cities, towns, and villages which require different tackling altogether, as skilled manpower and machinery are not easily available at such places. The main body of work highlights projects catering to the lower and middle-income groups, barring some exceptions of prestigious projects. Current issues from the field of architecture have been addressed in the book by quoting practical examples”.

The book also discusses the controversies of Tata Towers behind the Chandigarh Capitol Complex and the merger of Chandigarh College of Architecture with Punjab Engineering College. It discusses the negative impact and wrong trend of over-use of glass in Indian buildings and focuses on designing buildings to suit local climate and culture. Bahga’s work as a Member of the Board of Directors of Chandigarh Housing Board and Councillor in the Municipal Corporation has also been touched.

“This comprehensive work delves deep into the rich architectural heritage of our nation, capturing the essence of marvelous projects from smaller towns, cities, and villages”, said Architect Vilas Avachat, President, of the Indian Institute of Architects.

Mr. Bahga while speaking about the book said, “India’s post-independence modern architecture is well documented in various books up till 1985 mainly focusing on works for the elite class not forming the true representation of Indian middle class and economically weaker section of the society.”

“The book not only exhibits the contemporary Indian Architectural scene but shall become a repository for architecture students”, said Architect Habeeb Khan, Former President of COA.