Kolkata pays homage to the works of architect BV Doshi

Balkrishna Vithaldas Doshi, popularly known as BV Doshi is an iconic figure in the history of Indian architecture. An exhibition titled BV Doshi Memorial exhibition has been organised at a city venue in order to celebrate his legacy and visionary approach. Inaugurated by Harshavardhan Neotia on Friday, the ceremony was attended by architects Neelkanth Chhaya and Sohan Nilkanth, who discussed how the Padma Vibhushan awardee impacted them with his innovative ideas.

The first edition of the two-week-long exhibition showcases the works of architects influenced by BV Doshi, and had been planned across four rooms of the venue, each representing a distinct category: Time, Place, Technology, Land and Language. While the Time and Place categories explore how memories and historical contexts shape architectural impact, Technology highlights both cutting-edge modern innovations and sustainable techniques used in earlier times. The Land category examines how architecture responds to and integrates with its geographical context and the Language category features projects that illustrate the evolution of architectural language and vocabulary.

Recognised as a leading force in Indian modernism, BV Doshi’s career spanned nearly seven decades, during which he transformed urban landscapes and redefined architectural standards. Architect Neelkanth Chhaya said, “Doshi Sir, being a pioneer in the field of architecture, was open to new ideas from his students and was a child at heart. His urge to explore new things and his sense of playfulness are the basis of his knowledge.” Architect Sohan Nilkanth added, “Neelkanth and I were his students, and Doshi Sir has been our mentor on the projects displayed here. Our relationship with Doshi Sir is something that can’t be put into words. We are extremely happy to be part of this exhibition.”

Talking about BV Doshi's contributions, Harshavardhan Neotia, chairman of the Ambuja Neotia Group said, “I’m indebted to him in many ways. This exhibition is a tribute to all his teachings and wisdom, and we hope to host it every year in his birthday month, which is August.”