After putting in 40 years of experience in architecture, eminent architect Surinder Bahga, has come up with his book, “Form Follows Roots – Architecture for India 1985 – 2021”. Edited by Turkey-based Architectural Historian Dr Ebru ÖzekeTökmeci, the book is an insight into contemporary architecture of India from 1985 to 2021 including Bahga’s own work.
The book, on which architect Bahga has worked for 23 years, was released here today at the Chandigarh Press Club, by reputed architect SD Sharma in the presence of many eminent architects, authors and other prominent personalities of Chandigarh.
The book has been published by White Falcon Publishing while Foreword has been written by well-known author Prof Robert Harbison from London. This book is supported by the Indian Council of Architecture and has been recommended in all Architecture Colleges in the country already.
Bahga while speaking about the book said, “India’s post-independence modern architecture is well documented in various books uptill 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.”
He further said, “This publication is an endeavour to cover works of small cities, towns and villages which require a different kind of 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.”
Book also discusses the controversies of Tata Towers behind Chandigarh Capitol Complex and 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 Member of Board of Directors of Chandigarh Housing Board and Councillor in 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, Indian Institute of Architects.
“Book will be a valuable addition in the literature on Architecture hence Council of Architecture approved its circulation in Indian universities”, said Architect Abhay Purohit, President Indian Council of Architecture opined.
“The book not only exhibits the contemporary Indian Architectural scene but shall become a repository for students of architecture;” said Architect Habeeb Khan, Former President of COA.
About the Author:
Architect Surinder Bahga is heading the architectural organization “Saakaar Foundation” in Chandigarh. Mr. Bahga was given Sir M. Visveswaraya Award in 1995 by HUDCO for energy-efficient housing design. His Baptist Church at Chandigarh was selected by the Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources and TERI as one of the best 41 energy-efficient buildings in India. He got Michael Ventris Award from the Architectural Association, London.
He has co-authored three books on architecture. He worked as Chairman of IIA, Chandigarh-Punjab Chapter. He worked as Chairman of IIA Publication Board and Editor of Journal of Indian Institute of Architects. He was nominated as Councillor in Chandigarh Municipal Corporation for the term 2012-16. Currently, he is a member of the Advisory Committee of India’s Home Minister on Union Territories. He has been appointed as member of Chandigarh Housing Board for the term 2021 to 2024 and as President of Chandigarh Chapter of FSAI.
