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28 Mar 2024, Edition - 3180, Thursday

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A Quest for the unexplored domain of Architectural Journalism in India

Ar. Pappal Suneja

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Architecture is essentially a habit of mind. It focuses on our ideas of arousing public reception toward novel creativity in building design, through sustained education, imparted by means of the following: the very first being the obligation toward truth; the second one being loyalty to building design vis-à-vis natural resources; and the last one being the essence of discipline in critical evaluation. All these factors point toward the emerging concepts of Architectural Journalism. These emphasize on informing the right thing to the right person and enabling public relations with utmost loyalty and truth. Moreover, what we observe is that Indian traditions seem unmatched by any other; the diversity here has, but, portrayed our ideas in a fragmented manner, that has further crippled an artistic and creative approach. On the contrary, if we focus on holistic humanism, we can explore the diversity of our nation for the betterment of the large, by being passionate about what we believe in and moving forth with our endeavors, no matter the obstacle. We must enthrall the fire to sustain our desires with an optimistic and patient approach.

Architectural Journalism should be like Vedas and Upanishads to architects: At a later stage, these reflective essays and articles shall serve as a source of perennial inspirations. There needs to be a liberal mindset, toward perceiving and understanding architecture, to realize the delicate bridge between traditions and modernity. Just as dead wood drops on its own, journalism in Architecture shall, on its own, convey the thoughts and the ideologies put behind envisaging a design. The basic idea of Architectural Journalism requires communication skills and imagination; linking photography with it has a larger role to play in the same. Journalism acts as an unbiased critical analysis for the celebrated architects, allowing them to grow even more in their profession. Criticism to the same is not that easy; it does have biased nature at times, but it also brings value and direction to Architectural Journalism.

It has been rightly remarked, “The Matrix remains the same, but the civilization changes”. Moving forth on these lines, we must consider rejuvenating and yet again, understanding our traditional past so as to resonate it subtly with a modern future. Further, the most dangerous threat is the possibility of Architecture turning into “Market-itecture” (if we sell Architecture only for profit). As per his view, each person has his own opinion; and the massive population means a multitude of such opinions that can lead to conflict. Hence, this is something that needs to be avoided while working and promoting Architectural Journalism; since this novel concept is yet to flourish its grounds in our country. Journalism acts as an unbiased critical analysis for the celebrated architects, allowing them to grow even more in their profession. Criticism to the same is not that easy; it does have biased nature at times, but it also brings value and direction to Journalism.

On a Concluding note, Architectural Journalism is not limited to documentation of a building; rather, it is an attempt to capture the soul of a building in an unbiased, unblemished and true manner.

The author is -Ar. Pappal Suneja, Architect & Architectural Journalist based in Ooty

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are the author’s own

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