Shilpasagar 2011 by Shilpasagar Magazine

SHILPASAGAR 2011 2

S H I L P A S A G A R

Annual Magazine of Sir J. J. College of Architecture

SHILPASAGAR |2011

FOREWORD With a deep sense of appreciation, gratitude and joy, I greet you all through Shilpasagar. The Institution today besides imparting knowledge towards professional excellence is looked upon as a guiding force for the right methods of practice. Sir J. J. College of Architecture has now collaborations with few Universities in USA and Europe towards student exchange programmes. This co-operation has provided much needed exposure to our staff and students which have encouragement in the form of postgraduation. The institution has grown over the years but has not aged. In a world where everything is measured by the yardstick of success, we teach our students to think logically and analytically with freedom to move towards their goals with focussed vision. I am totally indebted to the teaching staff who timelessly has strived towards innovative teaching methods in the challenging scenario. Our students have tried to revive Shilpasagar via their writing talents, which is indeed a tedious task when they are already burdened with academic assignments. I congratulate the members of the Editorial Team and thank the Editor who put it together. The institution is proud about their alumni and is in constant touch with them for seeking feedback on educational excellence. We invite them to visit their alma mater and interact with the current students and see the library. I wish all the students and staff a very happy 2012.

Rajiv Mishra Principal Associate

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

EDITORIAL

S HIL P A S AG A R

Editor Hemangi Kadu (left) with Co-editor editor Prerna Damani (Photo Courtesy: Mithilesh Jadhav)

Shilpasagar is a brand which has got a 75 year old history attached to it. Contemplating a revival in itself was a task, or we might add, a challenging task. Leaping right into it wasn't a good idea at all, but doing some homework was. We spent weeks browsing the Shilpasagar archival section, and to be honest, we were in absolute awe and certain amazement looking at what our predecessors had left for us. They were the ‘Bee's Knees’. These issues reeked of originality and variety. The responsibility of maintaining it was, believe us, crushing. And just about when we started doubting our potential, the first spark of hope was ignited, a mere compliment on the magazine flyer. That did it. We started believing in it and the news got some ‘word-of-mouth’ ‘word mouth’ publicity, and not to forget the ‘Likes’ over ove Facebook. Submissions started flooding Shilpasagar’s inbox, compilation followed. This issue of Shilpasagar talks about two things: our College and our people, yes we wanted to keep it basic. Apart from the use of social networking sites or the array of literary/ artistic genres explored, this issue boasts of yet another milestone, the logo, an important step in establishing Shilpasagar as a brand. It has happened; a comeback c and we expect itt to be as successful as Kajol’s Kajol comeback to films. This gloating gloating business could go on and on, so sit back and enjoy a healthy read.

SHILPASAGAR |2011

CONTENTS Foreword…. (4) Editorial…. (5) Calendar of Events & Academic Competitions

22 36

(2007 to 2011)…. (8) Batch profiles…. (12) Faculty Medal reviews…. (22) Transparence Award Winners…. (34) Best of Thesis 2010 - 2011…. (36) The Faucet of Creativity – Parul Kumtha…. (42) Dynamism of the Asian Home – Supriya Krishnan…. (43) An Interview with Architect Shirish Beri – Hemangi Kadu…. (48) Architect of My Own Destiny - Sanjay Mhatre…. (52)

ukuw [kaMkGs – Hkk-

n- lkBs…. (55)

Women in Architecture Today – Resham Mehta…. (56)

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

58 Everest Best Students Interviews…. Interviews (58) Introducing Parhelion…. (64) (64 One Nation, One Voice! – Vidhi Jobanputra…. (66) JJustice League Interviews…. …. (69) Picture Plane – Harimohan Pillai…. (79) Kaka just smiles…. (80)

An Ideal Campus – Arun D. Ranade…. (83) Eureka Installation…. (85) More than Just A Birthday – Ruchita Jagzap…(86)

द हॉ टल पाट ऑफ़ लाइफ ! – सायल

चौधर … (89)

आणी भुवया उं चाव या ! – वैदेह "वरकर .... (91) Senior’s Plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! – Rashmil Rajagopalan…. (92) F.Y.B.Arch. – Rashmil shmil Rajagopalan…. Rajagopalan (94) Headed South - Anoop Bhat…. …. (96) ( Renaissance – Prerna Damani…. …. (97) Her Day By The Beach – Rohit Walimbe…. Walimbe (98) The Moustache Man – Prerna Damani…. Damani (100) Open Eyes– Rohit Walimbe…. (101) (101

मराठ& क"वता…. क"वता (102) Students Council 2011…. (107)) Magazine Members…. (108) Sir Jamshedji Jee Jeebhoy rangoli by Shrish Jaiswal

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS AND ACADEMIC COMPETITIONS

EVENTS:

2011

Book release of 'Letters to a Young Architect' by Christopher Benninger on August 23rd, 2011. A book on his life in India and his personal concerns about architectural theory and contemporary urban issues. On the occasion, Prof. Benninger talked about his book, interacted with students and signed copies of his book. This was the first programme in 'sirjj/iia collaboratives 2011'; jointly organised with the Indian Institute of Architects.

Public presentation of winning entries from the Faculty Medal Competition for 2011 called 'Gendering the City': developing alternatives for making the public realm of Mumbai gender equal and accessible to all. For the third year running, Sir JJ College of Architecture is one of the top 3 architecture colleges in the country according to the 2011 Outlook/ MDRA survey, 2011. All Alumni Meet, 7th April 2011 On the evening of 7th April 2011, more than 150 architects, all alumni of the Sir JJ College of Architecture came together for an evening of memories, enthusiasm and serious resolve to forge an Alumni Association to further the academic and professional cause of their old alma mater.

Lecture By Architect Karan Grover on Green and Sustainable Architecture An interactive lecture by Architect Karan Grover at Sir J.J. College of Architecture on 22nd February 2011 about Green andSustainable Architecture. He explained the concept of ‘Giving back to the Earth’ with the help of Green Roof. He gets inspired by old structures and monuments. Inspiration from old architecture is reflected from his designs. He also talked about his Champaner project , which is after course of 20 years now declared as ‘world heritage Site’.

Marathi Vanggmayy Poetry Exhibition National Conference on Architectural Education : National Conference on Architectural Education, organized at Sir J J college of Architecture on January 12, 2011 by Dr. Sushama Jogalekar.

2010

Workshop on Earthquake Resistant Designs : A two day workshop, december 2010, on Earthquake Resistant Design and Construction Practices for practicing architects, sponsored by Government of Maharashtra at Sir J J college of Architecture.

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Origami Exhibition- Wonderfold'10 ORIGAMI MITRA had organized an exhibition of paper models, 'WONDERFOLD 1O' at Sir J J college of Architecture from 17th December to 20 December. Origami workshops were conducted during this time. Many students helped in the installation of large models and helped in the exhibition.

Public Lecture "Housing: Towards an Inclusive India" By Dr. Harjit Singh Anand, former Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, Govt. Of India, Speaking on shaping inclusive housing / urbanism in India. May 2010

Exhibition 'Wadas of Maharashtra- Measured Drawings from the Sir JJ School of Arts ' Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the formation of Maharashtra State May, 2010 The measured drawings (1929-1946) from the archives were displayed for the first time, and showcased architectural heritage, both from Maharashtra’s historical towns and its heartland.

Richard Meier & Partners headline Masterstrokes: The Icon Exhibition. Mumbai, India February, 2010 Works by the iconic modern architect Richard Meier & partners were on display for the first time in India at Sir JJ College of Architecture, the country’s oldest and most prestigious school for architecture. The exhibition showcased original models of Meier’s most iconic and beloved buildings, also including drawings, renderings and photography of other works.

Exhibition: Sir J.J.College Of Architecture Archives DRAWINGS OF ARCHITECTURAL ORNAMENT Ahmedabad, Bijapur & Ellora, Sir J.J.School Of Art 1893-1898. January 1-15,2010

2009

All Alumni meet on November 12, 2009

Presentation by eminent Italian Architect Massimiliano Fuksas and eminent Architect Charles Correa On the topic

“Cities and Megalopolises. 2050. 9.95 billions of world population" On Nov. 9th 2009

All Alumni Meet of the batch of 1989 On October 23, 2009 More than thirty former students came together some after twenty years. Presentations of work, nostalgia and general good fun marked the event. A buffet dinner in the workshop porch provided a splendid setting to round off the evening.

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Sir JJ College of Architecture Ranked 2 in Outlook survey of top 5 Architecture professional colleges in India. MAGAZINE | JUN 22, 2009

Hospitality the Versatility of Italian Design Short intro of Mumbai Last Stage Indian & Italian design projects The project “Hospitality the Versatility of Italian Design” a cultural and commercial exchange focused on the furniture design industries of both countries, concluding its tour with an exhibition in Mumbai from 31 march to 6 April 2009 at the historic Sir JJ College of Architecture.

2008

Prof. Rajiv Mishra takes charge as Principal on October 21st, 2008. Exhibition "4 Salvaged Boxes: design with environmental sustainability" from July 22nd to September 12th 2008 designed and organized by wHY Architecture. The exhibit consisted of information about the Grand Rapids Art Museum and other projects designed by wHY Architecture.

2007

Launch of the Annual Magazine Shilpasagar 2006-07 Sir J.J. College of Architecture launches its annual magazine Shilpasagar 2006-07 celebrating 75 years of Shilpasagar and 150 years of the Sir J. J. Campus.

Presentation of works of Jimmy Lim Architects Jimmy Lim’s work is characterized by its response to the climate and environment and his search to define a national character for Malaysian architecture.

Seminar of Faculty Research 2007, University of Mumbai. A presentation of Research Concerns of the Faculty of Sir JJ College of Architecture.

ACADEMIC COMPETITIONS: Earthquake Resistant Design Competition, IIT Kanpur, 2011 Bhavin Patel, 2nd prize

Birla White Yuva Ratna 2011, Regional Bhavin Patel, 4th prize

Autodesk India BIM Student Competition, October 2011: 2 West region finalist teams – 1st – Dikshant Meshram, Pravin Kamble, Aditya Benibangde 2nd - Jignesh Gharat, Kunal Warade, Chaitanya Chavan

Three J.J. students create designs for Kalina Campus Gate, 2010 Zaid Nachan, Sachin Portuke, Zia Ansari

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

Birla White Yuvaratna Award, Jan 2009: Winners: Harshavardhan Jatkar and Daksha Masurkar

IGBC along with CII Godrej- Design using waste materials, 24th Oct 2008: FIRST PRIZE won by Sonam Ambe and Gaurav Sawant.

India today journalism, May 2008: Green Architecture Category: Kamlesh Ghade, Jasmeet Kaur, Nitin Kashyap. Steel category: Sonam Ambe (1st prize)

IEA Product Design Competiton, July 2007 Sonam Ambe, Second prize (Study trip to Italy as a prize)

Birla White Yuvaratna Award, 29th Jan 2007: Pandurang Supada Wadhe, Jury Special mention award

The Times of India Interior Design Competition, Feb 2007: III Prize: Pooja Ugrani, Laveena Rayn, Minal Bhagwat, Sneha Hamand, Hiral Zala and Sonam Abme. Consolation: Sneha Chhatre, Nimisha Golatkar, Erica d'souza, Pooja Shah, Lanrindki C, Swati Dhorave. Consolation: Bhavesh Patel, Daksha Masurkar, Vijay Panchal, Sweta Parab, Vijay Panchal, Mayank Mota

Road Design Competition Organized by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, 27th Jan 2007: Students won 2nd Prize.

University Gold medal presented in Convocation hall, Jan 2007: Satish Gore from Final Year

EXTRA-CURRICULAR COMPETITIONS: Heritage on Canvas, Painting Competition, 2011 1st prize- Oshin Malhara 3rd prize- Amruta Thakur Merit Prize- Deepshika Bhattacharya

University Rangoli Competition, 2011 Semi- Finalist â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rajani Rajan

Burn Curate Painting Competition, 2011 1st Prize â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Amruta Thakur, Bhavin Patel

Burn Curate Art Installation Competition, 2010 1st Prize - Bhaveshh Tahalramani, Minesh Chainani, Dhananshri, Priyanka Gite, Nupur Soni, Sharvari Sadadekar, Dnyaneshwari Mete

SHILPASAGAR |2011

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

YEAR

YEAR OF JOINING: 2007 It is only on the day of a submission, that all people are expected to hate, that our class for once presents itself in near full attendance.Our class, inexplicably, also consists of people, who only pretend to hate submissions, and actually don’t, and those shameless enough to flaunt their love for them. On such days our class gets divided into camps, some struggling to finish work, some lazily installing Cad to start.We begin with her highness, Supriya ‘Best student’ Krishnan. She who trumps and triumphs over all, Jispe koi line mare toh who pehle ‘line weight’ poochegi! We then come to Rutuja Prabhudesai and Prajakta Navandar, “Buttercup”and “Bubbles” to Supriya’s “Blossom”, saving the day, the only people present in class when Professor Mustansir ‘Utonium’ Dalvi comes to Town(sville) on the day of a submission. Rohit ‘kyaye’ Walimbe, ’jiska kaam hua rehta hai’is ready to poop the party, reserving his best cribbing for the aforementioned. Chaitanya Prabhudas Chavan, occasionally found around them is best known as the“camera caper” of the batch. Then there’s Tanvi Kelkar, you don’t usually put ‘sweet’,’girl’and ‘Enfield’ in the same line (unless of course, you’re talking about picking girls up), but she rides one, and so you get the point. Shraddha Sawant, many dimensions to her personality, but only two of them to her person, the bubbly Sketchup addict is someone who’s always “heard” first then (sometimes) “seen”. And she’s innovative. She patented “open to sky subways”! The train chugs from Thane to Mulund, “the epicentre of hot-ness, Esha Tipnis (babe insaan, awesome insaan and inspiration to the third year. Manasi ‘Guzu’ Chandan (jo chashme nahi pehenti kyonki uske paas “contacts”hai, jiske camera ka naam ‘Photoshop’ hai, Sameeha ‘Genda’Joshi, ‘the object d’amour’ of the friendly neighbourhood indispensable tapriwala, and the effervescent Shreyas ‘Flash’ More, reducing the distance between “Kandivili” and “Mulund” to nanometres. We move to the intercontinental duo of Farzan Mistry, the “Persian” overlord, Rossi Lallawmawma, his Mizo counterpart, who ‘’doesn’t know naaaaa?!’’, Sonali Praharaj, of swallowed basketballs and jumping cows, with Anuja Karve “the nerdy diva” prancing around beside. With Tripti Sahani and Dhara Mehta, the circle is complete.Ashish Panchal, sincere, helpful and his awesomely written notes the sole reason why Xerox shops had their hands full come every TOS and Services exam, and the entire class poorer by half a grand.Smita Kudchikar, and Aparna Joijode, completes the other important faction of this class, who will indeed be remembered with the utmost gratitude. Apurva ‘V’ Samant and Vidya ‘B’ Naik,are Don and Don 2, of “Dombivli” and “Kalyan”,spreading Shivers since 2007. Nilam Gosavi, Pranoti Goregaonkar from “Panvel”, Aditi Paithane (babe insaan no.2), Gouri Chikale (Billie Jean) Sanskruti Rajhans (the Face of Facebook) and Sai Joshi, the giggly girl gang, a staple forevery class.The “Mahila Mandal”, Prajakta Chachad, Aditi Chivate, Swapnali Bhujbal, Vidya Naik, from their fantastic dances during Parhelion to their singular voice during bunking decisions, are one tight group. Sachin Porkute, the elder statesman of our class, good natured, helpful, and excels at everything. Kunal Warade, who went from size zero to the “Incredible Hulk” within what was it, a week? Jay Ramesh Sor, ‘Bond’ ‘Angara’ ‘Chor’, one of the most amusing, angry, loved, and iconic members of our class. Dikshant Rahul Meshramcemented his place in the annals of the history of us on the very first day of college with his ‘Are you with me!?’, and he hasn’t looked back. Pronita Bhaduri, the un-official spokesperson of the batch, and Hrishikesh ‘Panda’ Deshpande, happiest with Pronita or the drafting board for Building technology. Jignesh ‘Jigi’ Gharatis the artist, the actor and the Revit master.Bhagyashree Mutha the elusive Rapunzel from Aurangabad, the ever-smiling Kirti Maske and Anuja Kelapure are the hostelites. Vrindha Tikku and Priyanka Rajguru arethe inseparables. Zaid Nachan, Prathamesh Patkar and Soumil ‘Mhanje’Adhatrao are the group that is always ‘up’ to something. Sameer Gujaris best known for his “organ’ic”designs, Vinaya Sabne and Suyog Dongare (roll no. Toooooelve) are best known for their Marathi. Pravin Kamble, the working man, juggles between his job, college and an excruciatingly long journey to Virar every day. Prashant Sonawane, plays his guitar as perfectly as he bunks college. Sudanshu ’Apple’ Sonawane is the one who will always get ‘Jobs’. Hemant Sonawane completes the legendary Sonawane triplets. ’Joint’ to them is Shivanand Singh, the babe magnet, he who ‘em all, from 8 to 80, swooooon! Jayant Burbade, Abaji Ghute and Aditya Benibangde, the cricket captain, are the hostelites. Shrish Jaiswal, stipples his way to Artistic Nirvana.Sanket Patil and Shruti Kelshikar are cute, loving, and loved, the ‘model’ couple. And then, there’s Anshuman Roy, as the co-writer of this article I get the “Bragging Rights”, the mercurial awe-inspiring ass whooping trash talkin’ beer guzzling pizza eating fat boy with the cool beard you see all over the place. The Man, the Genius, the Legend, the Icon. Yeah you heard him alright. Bwahahahahahahahahaa!

SHILPASAGAR |2011

t h

y r

P h o t o s

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

YEAR

YEAR OF JOINING: 2008

Having been called plenty of names, some deserved many not, the one that seems to stick for our batch is ‘exceptional’, though there might be a slight disagreement regarding the context.We first started as a class during the diwali of 2008 and the firecrackers haven’t stopped going off yet! The literal ones have been witnessed plenty and stating the figurative ones might make us seem bashful. The paragraphs that ensue describe our batch and is written with utter humility, though they may not seem so,which is no surprise. Our utterly talented Vaidehi Virkar, Darshana Rachha, Tanvi Desai and Ankita Mathapti are the souls of the performing arts’ shows with the ever so graceful additions to the choreography by Komal Vaidya and Rutuja Patil. Anushree Varadkar and Manik Karkare are our female sport stars, Sampada Ghadi is unanimously loved and Manjiri Shinde and Pooja Shirke are our small wonders.The Shankar Sawant aka Santo and Ankit Shah leave spell bound audiences with both, their on-stage and off-stage theatrics alike. Snehal Ramteke, Radhika Soni, Divya Rao and Samruddhi Jaipuria could be called the awesome foursome complemented perfectly by the “white devils” comprising the ever entertaining Rohit Shinde, Nikhil Salvi, Umesh Kumbharand Yash Agarwal and not to mention, our very dear angry young man Viranchi Vaidya. The sporting wonders in Jitesh Jadhav, Suraj Palange, Suyog Jadhav could leave this ever so lively bunch incomplete. The silent wonder we have in Vishal Pawar is much noticed and deeply appreciated, also his sketching abilities highly acclaimed. The twins, but by birth, Shiva Rathod and Vishal Dhok share also the qualities of being ever so helpful.The academic wealth of our class lies with Nusrat Karovalia, Rama Raghavan, Rajani Rajan, Sonal Gohil, Ruchi Vakharia, Omkar Shelar and Yashashri Nakhwa. Not to mention Amruta Thakur and Bhavin Patel who have done us proud on multiple occasions. Chris Charles and Shruthi Poojari along with being perfect leaders are our Man and Woman Friday respectively. The silent exterior of Ashwini Rokade, Chetana Maske, Urjita Bowlekar, Deepshika Bhattacharya and Priyanka Arulkar seem to be a mere façade hiding intensely colourful personalities witnessed only by the lucky few. We also have our very own delightful Smita Patil, thankfully not as dramatic as her name suggests. Mauktik Singh Rawat might be hard to pronounce but is as easy to like as his better half. Roshni Bhagatkar shares with him an impeccable sense of humor. Neha Maneand Deepti Padte can enhance everyone’s countenance alike, one with her exceptional make-up abilities and the other will her omnipresent radiant smile.Pritam Katariya with his build and Shrenik Kasliwalwith his personality, both astride the Bullet are an impressive sight indeed. Jitesh Kansara the adorable and ever helpful lad Pratik Girwalkar, our’Gurkha’ and Akshay Sangle, from another distant land, are bundles of frolic, and mirth their constant companions. Rahul Jagtap is the model student and a protagonist, better than him, for an 80’s film would be hard to find. Abhishek Jambhalkar is the truly smart one and Zomuanpuia Pachau truly intelligent. Seen a total of four times each year, he still manages to make it to every year. Manasvi Bachhav, our diplomatic blunder, is perfectly complemented by Mudita Dhankar, our management Wonder. When the two of them are together there never will cease to be a ‘Once upon a time’.The ever adorable Akshay Nath is the protagonist of the comedy that is our class. Our dearly beloved he is and the one word for him is, ‘Po’! Anuj Dhar, our drummer,belts out ‘For Whom the Bell Tolls’ with an ease which only rivals Sagar Lohar’s,our bassist’s, ability at eating full meals out of any and everyone’s dabbas. Along with our dear bow-legged lead guitarist, Jinesh Jain, this band of musicians, Room No.11 has struck the chords of many a heart. Too modest to write about herself, Kulsum Shahiwalaonly hopes for the recognition of her proficiency at flattery, and diplomacy, and vocabulary, and memory, and knowledge, and astounding design ability and humility.

SHILPASAGAR |2011

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

YEAR

YEAR OF JOINING: 2O09

This write up is solely for the purpose of introducing our batch to the readers and the sarcasm and dry humour is only to keep the reader amused and interested.Considered to be a batch that would revive JJ’s rich past, we are doing our best to maintain the high standards we’ve set for ourselves. And, to an extent, we’ve succeeded in doing so, notching up our levels every year. Setting the bar for the rest of his classmates is the all-time scholar Mahek Chheda. Also, in the forefront are our very dear “teddy” Menesh Chainani and the ever precise “cut to cut”Jui Kat-re-kar. Nita Johnson is omnipresent when it comes to other in-charges, and absent in front of her own in-charge! Envying her absurdity is Puneet Pagariya, who notoriously tries to make the silent movies of our class Aparna Khandare, Srushti Pawar, Dipika Lele and Manasi Kumbhar audible. Hemangi Kadu and Siddhant Khade consider sketchingas their medium of expression, and love photographyalong with Vallabh Vishwanathan, an all-rounder. Shreyas Bharuleis the “baba” of our class. Devdutt Kulkarni, the caricature expert, the snake charmer Ankit Sawale along with Shiva Kshirsagar completes the “mob of boys” hostelites. While the innocent Amy Lalruatfeli has issues understanding “Hindi” and “Marathi”, Sharvari “love rhymester” Sadadekar is a master of the same languages. Sneha “disorderly” Bend-ale, Sonu “athletic” Bothe, Heena “sindhi” Hassani, Dhanashri “a bit too trendy” Chaudhari, Dnyaneshwari “vital” Mete, Nupur “tele-tubby” Soni, Bhagyashree Gapat along with Tejashri Mane, the L.R. of our class and the hard working Priyanka Gite complete the “gang of girls” hostelites. Planning a weekend trip to USA? Approach the ever amusing Anurag Chatterjee, with his posse Nilesh More and Aniket Sawlekar. Are you a Madhuri Dixit fan? Watch Savita Nerkar on the dance floor. Looking out for some apt moves? Watch Anoop Bhat rock the dance floor! Keeping the desi beats alive are Shambhavi Mokal, Mitali Nalla, Amey Kumavat, Swapna Nerkar and Bhagyashree Baviskar. We have a mahila mandal too, comprising of Kritika “pura hai” Biswas, Shruddha “strong” Kulkarni, Shweta “uncanny” Pawaskar and Nandini “jabber-mouth” Phadnis. The two Sutars, Kiran and Bhagyashree are totally different unlike their surnames. Need help in W.D.? Go to Ashray “paisa do re”Gangully, also the C.R. of our class. For cute Sneha Gholap and pretty Komal Koli, two’s a company but for Chinmay Mayekar, Resham Mehta and Jameela Rupawalla, three doesn’t seem a crowd. Updated with the latest gossips are the punjabi kudi Raveen Dhami, the Gujju pair of Supriya Thakkar and Bijal Dhruv and the tactless but gorgeous Illika Hastu. Bhavesh Tahalramani and Tanvi Patilare the “North” and “South” poles of a lodestone, inseparable! Kalpesh Mahajan is one of the bests when it comes to model making, but his Dombivlifellowmates, Priti Pulekar and Vasanti Vispute are still struggling with the hectic travelling. While the restless Vidhi “eh jaa na” Jobanputra can get on the dance floor anytime, “poori ki poori” attractive Iravati Nath, unfortunately, has two left feet. Akhil Mane, from “Thane”, and Tejal Shinde from “Andheri”, are both happy the way they are, but the former still has a disturbing habit of not wearing belts! No one better than Apurva Gore, can define Arms, Ammunitions and Architecture together. Don’t mistake Darshan Gandhe to be a fresher, our very own roadrunner, “Raju Srivastava” or our class and the Sports Sec. of our college. Soft on words and hard on tabla, Mithilesh Jadhav is a true gentleman. Adding Dilli tadka to the batch is the street-smart Rika Meshram. Accident prone Yogesh Pawar runs out of “power” before every submission but is tougher than our karate kid Renu “powerpuff”Yadav. Sowjanya Harinarayan is tall and above the crowd regardless of the “treasurer” tag taking a toll on her. We’ve cherished every second spent in JJ, and each one of us is proud to be a “JJite”. Signing off, Rashmil Rajagopalan, asserted with the tag of “Dravid-The Wall”, and often deserted by luck, is slow and sluggish with everything put in front of him. So much so that it took him 2 days to complete this article!

SHILPASAGAR |2011

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

2 YEAR YEAR OF JOINING: 2010

Don’t go by the way we are perceived. Yes, we are among those happy-go-lucky batches of the college as the professors describe us to be, but there’s more to it. The silent but naughty Lalnunpuia Chhak has mastered all the Hindi and Marathi abuses but still does not understand the languages. Pritesh Malandkar and his play-station are the best example of inseparable brothers.Don’t dare to take model-making challenges from Omkar Burle, Kevin Mathew or Jafar Abbas. The sick bird Nikita Mhaiskar falls ill each time she has outside food. But it is Malhar Ambekar who has accomplished the feat of falling ill before every submission. Madhura Kulkarni and Surabhi Mohadikar are like twin sisters, while Deeksha Rawat and Paramjit Lota are the inseparable souls. Minal Bhoir, Sayali Rane, Prerna Khillari, Isha Jadhav, Mitali Harmalkar and Sneha Kadam have a world of their own. Rushabh Mehta can go on all day with his flames and car gyaan. Shivangi Tanna, Rashmi Rajpal, Gauri Malur are like the three musketeers of course without the mustaches. Akshaya Kudale, Sayali Burte, Prachi Chaudhari and Pooja Gundu are the student friendly people who make sure that their work is done for others to copy. Arsalan Mohammad and Prerna Damani have a philosophy of their own understood by none. Pallavi Desai is like the mother who is striving hard for the well-being of the class. Gossip girls Gauri Kothavle, Aakriti Bansal, Kshitija Bhakare, Shraddha Kamath have gossiped about almost every JJite alive. Oshin Malhara and Vibha Saraf need no introduction when it comes to art. AnushreePatil has proved that TOS is understandable. KunalPatil and SagarikaPatil have kept up with the reputation of not attending the college. Arka Banerjee keeps confusing others with his name (lame). Nikita Parwekar is like a running comic strip. Roshan Bhelose can never get AD out of his mind while Manish Atram can never get it inside his mind. WorkaholicShraddha Tambe, Ashwini Shinde and Archana Sonavane find new methods to impress profs. While professors try finding new methods to deal with Kaustubh Arolkar, Ganesh Naik, Anoop Nikam, SurajPatil and Sandesh Sasane, Jugal Ranaand Priyanka Mane wouldn’t mind burning the midnight lamp to keep his work updated. While Harshad Munj painfully remembers his good old commerce days, Aniket Warang could soon start-off as a gym instructor. Everyone envies the life that Asmita Tryambake, Mayuri Shinde, Sayali Virulkar, Tanmai Hatekar, Srilaxmi Kukutlwar lead on marine drive while Anna Rose pities her state in Bandra. Trendy Rohan Malunjkar has made sure that he changes his fashion after every vacation. Mamta Yadav, Vidyashree Pawar, Chintan Parmar and Pranjal Wade form a great group. Shruti Morye, Sneha Rananaware, Jueli Manjrekar, Mitali Gajbhiye and Jaina Patwa seem to be like chuddy buddies.Rujuta More generally has a tough time reminding people that her name is “Rujuta” and not “Rutuja”. A class of 70 odd students coming from different walks of life with weird, innovative, sometimes hostile, amusing, depressing, rotten ideas is difficult to find. And yes, we are the hundredth batch of the college,

SHILPASAGAR |2011

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

1 YEAR YEAR OF JOINING: 2011 Finally, we reach here. The most awaited dream of many and the lucky ones we come here, this college, Sir J.J. COA. Beginning a journey which starts now and we expect to cherish every bit of it and breathe all the life in it. So here we are to share some life with you, a new breeze we bring along. ‘WE’ the first years! As time clock starts and its morning bright, its still night when Rishi Mundada, Zaid Shaikh, Omkar Parkar, Abhijeet Raut and Parag Ugale sleeping tight. Now we have a party class with Rachana Harkare and Mugdha Bhave singer world class. We need a chota packet for a big blast. We have Samruddhi Kulkarni and DON, DON, DON, its Rashmi Igle for our class. Chinese had just one laughing Buddha but when we have Nikhil Panchal, Meghana Reddy and Shweta Patil all they do is, complete him and just laugh! And when everyone is there to laugh all around, its Trupti (fishly) Patil and Rutuja Lokhande to just cry and wash it out. When popularity meter touches its best its Abhishek Rahate standing above the rest, but wait, we are missing someone, its Sadaf Jahan breaking the meter! What is it? A cat or a dog? But when its Ankita (meow) Rangari And Swati Bhingare, they just slog and hog. You think they are with you, and they are gone, its Sudhanshu Yande (batata), Chhantea, Kunal Mehta, Shreyas ‘Sherk’ Joshi, Gireeja Bahangare.. where are they? Again! They are gone.. Holy snakes! If opposites ever meet, its Krupali Achrekar and Shivali Bhilaye best fits. Bakbakbak...while Swapnali Giri, Manjushree Kanade, Aishwarya Kulkarni just chit chat its Ashwini Rathod, Pramodini Sakpal and Swapnali Gavali laugh at that. Sshh…Silence..! Its what you need, when Zainab Akhtar, Shrutika Chaudhari, Shailesh Dhatkar, Sumit Khandale and Palak ‘pluck’ Shah are around. There are few people who just talk in one pitch, when its Saniya Jejani and its just one pitch, HIGH PITCH.!!! “CLASSS!” just shut up and listen to what our CR says… need help in late submissions?? Ajitsinh Jadeja is the best. And now you need a shoulder to carry the rest even if she is skinny she’s Prakriti Saxena, the LR, not like the rest. Work work and no rest, submissions on time, its Twishi Shah and Vaishnavi Rana at their best. The only people who understand what we don’t understand, i.e. what lecturers teach us and the lecturers too..its Avani Shah and Archit Kulkarni teaching us all. A Maggie noodle with straight pasta chops, its Nikhila Bahuleyan and Sakshi Ghulati the best dish which rocks! Its just jokey all around when its Rohit Gawde and Anvita Balakka surround. Its masti, timepass and fun right here when its Sanjeevani Veer, Neha Atrawalkwer (chuparustam) and Asmita Ganar right there. Smile smile for a while, its Ruksaar Bagwan, Preshita Chaudhari, Utkarsha Gharat and Niyati Thakker with their sweety sweety smile. Rock on! We need a dance, Harsh Soneji, Amandeep Panesar, Devendra Padhen, Samiksha Chaudhari..these guys just need a chance! Now we have the music beats, its Shubham Deshmukh, Komal Dahiwale, Karishma Poojari , Yogesh Khedekar, Aayushi Patil, with the beats their heart beats! Now we have three foots for one ball its Kshitij Sarote, Aakash Pawar and Akshay Shanbhag, all they do is play football. We have cold breezes from Chandrapur, we have Swapnil Ramteke, right here, our ‘Chandreya’… And with all this crap, its Aishwarya Khadse the poetess and Pranjal Kansara the ideaiest, penning this stuff down. Continuing it in d first year we will never stop running deep in the ocean we the ‘’FIRST YEAR’’ always rocks!

SHILPASAGAR |2011

Y E A R THEME:

2 0 0 6

PUBLIC TOILETS FOR MUMBAI CITY.

WINNERS: 1. Harshad Shitole – public toilet at Marine Drive 2. Dhiraj Takkekar – design of a Mobile Toilet 3. Manish Davane – for best design 4. Rupangi Khosla – Commendation

Since 2006, the faculty of Sir JJ College of Architecture instituted a Medal to be given to the best design from a competition organized by the college, called ‘Faculty Medal Competition’. This Competition is for participation by all the students, from the first to the final year. The themes given each year are intended to address pressing urban, social and civic issues in the city of Mumbai. Each entry is intended to generate alternatives that can transform the city through design excellence. The best entries of the competition are put on display to the city at large. The Faculty Medal is sponsored by Snowcem Paints.

After intense deliberations, the jury awarded the Snowcem Faculty Medal 2006 to the design of a public toilet at Marine Drive by Harshad Shiltole,, the first prize of Rs. 10,000/-. 10,000/ The second prize of Rs. 5,000/-- was awarded to Dhiraj Takkekar for his design n of a Mobile Toilet, the award of Rs.5,000/-for for best design was bagged by Manish Davane and a commendation was given to Rupangi Khosla. Mr. R. A. Rajeev, Additional Municipal Commissioner attended the award function as chief guest. Dr. Abhay Wagh, Joint Director, Directorate of Technical Education, Mr. Sandeep Narang, CEO, Snowcem Paints and Prof. Rajan Lakhule, Principal, J. J. College of Architecture, attended the function.

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SHILPASAGAR |2011

Y E A R

2 0 0 7

THEME: ‘NIGHT SHELTERS SHELTE FOR STREET CHILDREN’. WINNERS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Pooja Ugrani Jointly - Kajal K Dhamane and Pooja Shah. Commendation certificate to Nikhil Borkar. Best Design Award from the First Year Anuja Karve. Commendation for First year was given to Esha Tipnis and Chaitanya Chavan.

The jury for the Faculty Medal 2007: Night Shelters For Street Children In Mumbai took place in the college premises on 1st October 2007. The UN designates this day as World Habitat Day. The Jury members for the Snowcem Faculty Medal 2007 were Arch. Neera Adarkar, Author and Urban Researcher, Arch. Percy Kutar and Vinay Somani, Trustee Karmayog who had a tough time to judge the entries. The main n objective behind this topic was to get street children off the streets stre at a time when they are at their most vulnerable. The children shall be there of their own accord, enroll themselves, manage themselves under guidance and can leave whenever they want. The atmosphere of the center is home-like home at all times. The Night Shelter helter is intended to provide security and a Home to street children, with facilities for cleanliness, literacy, medical aid, in an environment of love and affection. Designs of excellence of such shelters could become working models contributing significantly significantly toward a "safe and just" metropolis. Students were required to find a site in the city where street children normally congregate and design what suited the best shelter for them. Also present on the occasion Mr. Rajan Lakule, Principal Sir JJ College College or Architecture, “This year we are very happy to see a high level of excitement in students, and hope to organize more such competitions. Corporates like Snowcem have always been associated with us for such events.” Also present at the award ceremony ceremony were Mr S. S Shinde, Jt Commissioner Education .

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SHILPASAGAR |2011

Y E A R

2 0 0 8

THEME: PEDESTRIAN WAYS WA IN THE CITY WINNERS: 1. Darshan Maru 2. Shraddha sawant

Commendations: Sachin Portuke Pooja Ugrani

Pedestrian Ways should make opposite parts of the city accessible, overcome barriers of fast moving traffic by pedestrian walkways and peoples places and create urban environment that's rich with the creations by its own inhabitants. The meeting of Jury for the Snowcem Faculty Medal 2008 took place in the college coll premises on 22ndDecember 2008. The Jury members for the Snowcem Faculty Medal 2008 were Jal Aria, Architect and Academician, Nayana Kathpalia, Convener Cityspace and S. Shankar Menon, former bureaucrat and pedestrian activist. From over 180 design sited site all over Mumbai, 30 were short-listed. listed. After intense deliberations, the Jury awarded the Snowcem Faculty Medal for the Year 2008 to Darshan Maru. Maru. The Jury appreciated his design for giving primacy to pedestrians, being simple, doable and cost-effective. cost The design solution was sensitive to its surroundings and did not disrupt the existing visual landscape. The Jury also appreciated Maru's use of public art in creating a humane environment for the pedestrians. The Second Prize was awarded to Shraddha Sawant,, whose design was appreciated for creating a new public space while finding a solution to the existing traffic problem. The judicious use of levels in the design made both vehicles and pedestrians negotiate easily. Two Commendations were given by the Jury. Jur The first to Sachin Porkute whose design the jury felt was an interesting response to a complex junction. They appreciated that the design did not disturb the surrounding heritage structures and their current views. The use of travellators for senior citizens tizens was innovative. The second Commendation was given to Pooja Ugrani. The Jury appreciated the design's primacy for the pedestrian, as it proposed for vehicles (as large as buses) to go underground. The use of the ground plane for cultural activities was w lauded.

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SHILPASAGAR |2011

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THEME: WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPME WINNERS: 1. Vaidehi Virkar 2. Amruta Thakur 3. Apoorva Shenvi

The aim of the design competition was to bring the citizen to the sea, by the creation of a safe, inclusive and barrier-free barrier free urban environment that can fulfill the primal need of a human being of coming close to water. The proposed design was intended to revitalize the marine edge of the city by creating new accesses to it, create opportunities for citizens citizens to congregate at water edges for social, ritual, meditative or recreational reasons and to transform the land-water land water interfaces for public use in our city by the sea. The Jury for the Faculty Medal 2009 took place in the college premises on 27 January ry 2010. The Jury members for the Faculty Medal 2009 were Umesh Pachigar, Senior Architect, Quaid Doongerwala, Principal Architect D-Coop D Coop and Roshni Udyavar, HOD Inst. of Env. Arch., Rachana Sansad. From over 200 design sited all over Mumbai, 31 were shortshort listed. After intense deliberations, the Jury awarded the Faculty Medal for the Year 2009 to Vaidehi Virkar. The Jury appreciated her design for being the best in terms of an environmental and a sustainable intervention. The proposal was sensitive to the ecology of the mangroves, while sitting lightly on the site, intertwining with the existing ecology. The design could be a prototype that can be adapted to many similar scenarios in Mumbai. The simplicity of the design is appreciated. The Second Prize was awarded to Amruta Thakur, whose design was appreciated for highlighting a small water body that displays a consciousness of the immediate surroundings. The design has an organic and three dimensional quality, intertwining architecture and landscape. The Third hird Prize was awarded to Apoorva Shenvi. The Jury thought that her design was well presented and well communicated scheme, displaying a holistic understanding of environmental and urban issues specific to the site.

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SHILPASAGAR |2011

Y E A R

2 0 1 0

THEME: THINK NK INSIDE THE BOX (REUSING THE SHIPPING G CONTAINERS) WINNERS: 1. Kulsum Shahiwalla 2. Rossi Lallawmawma

imagine the shipping container as an architectural element and a The aim was to re-imagine ‘building-block’ block’ to provide social and community infrastructure to the city of Mumbai. The Jury for the Faculty Medal 2007 took place in the college premises on 13th August 2010. The Jury members were Ratan Batliboi, architect, Rahul Srivastava, urban urban theorist, Rahul Kulkarni, architect and Nikhil Dalmia, industrialist. The Jury finally awarded the Snowcem Faculty Medal for the year 2010 to Kulsum Shahiwalla. The jury appreciated the crisp and clean presentation of her work. The design reflected clarity ity of thought in adapting function to the material. Here, containers were used in their entirety. The modules were interrelated in a very clever way. The conceived structure seems adaptable to different uses and is replicable. The concept of Bom-Bahaia Bahaia as as a network of islands was well adapted to using container elements/modules for a Mumbai-centric Mumbai centric museum. Structural spatial qualities of the container were well interpreted. The second prize was awarded to Rossi Lallawmawma, whose design was appreciated for having excellent detailing/design resolution that reflected a mature perspective. It revealed a variety of uses and an experiential nature of volume. The linearity of the container was adapted well to the footpath outside Mumbai Central. The The large scale of structure showed design ingenuity—which ingenuity which combines form and function, where the design is adaptable. The jury ury thought that the design demonstrated an excellent social impact in a public space.

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SHILPASAGAR |2011

Y E A R

2 0 1 1

THEME: GENDERING THE CITY, MUMBAI 1. Jui Katrekar - redesign of the Vitthal Desai Udyan, Mahim. 2. Bhagyashree Baviskar - redesign of the ‘Z’ Bridge at Matunga station 3. Sneha Rananavare - redesign of the Footover Bridge on the Eastern Express Highway at Vikhroli. Special mentions: • Manasvi Bacchav - the intervention in the Krishna Nagar Chawl on Babasaheb Ambedkar Marg • Ruchi Vakharia - the redesign of the Zakaria Bandar Lane at Cotton Green, • Vidhi Jobanputra - the redesign of the ticketing areas at Bombay Central, • Shraddha Kamat - the redesign of the Mahatma Gandhi Udyan at Churchgate The public realm in Mumbai poses a host of challenges for half of its rightful inhabitants- women. The aim of the competition was to create urban environments and infrastructure to be rich and fulfilling in the city of Mumbai specifically aimed at one half of its population- women. Participants were called upon to identify a site/street/place that conventionally only men inhabit and then redesign the space with such environments/ architecture aimed at including women in that space. The Jury for the Faculty Medal 2011 took place in the college premises on 23 July 2011. The Jury members were Shilpa Phadke, Sociologist and and Academician; Sameera Khan, Journalist and Author; Shilpa Ranade, Architect and Academician and Dhruti Vaidya, Architect. The Jury unanimously awarded the Faculty Medal 2011 to Jui Katrekar for her redesign of the Vitthal Desai Udyan, Mahim. The Jury appreciated preciated her design for creating an elegant and simple solution to the discriminatory access to parks. The Second Prize was awarded to Bhagyashree Baviskar for her redesign of the ‘Z’ Bridge at Matunga station. The Jury appreciated her choice of site, and her simple direct and implementable solution. The Third Prize was awarded to Sneha Rananavare for her redesign of the Footover Bridge on the Eastern Express Highway at Vikhroli. The Jury appreciated the brevity of the design solution and the clearly communicative communicative presentation. The he Jury also mentioned the following participant especially for their entries:Manasvi entries: Bacchav the intervention in the Krishna Nagar Chawl on Babasaheb Ambedkar Marg, was appreciated for being simple and thoughtful, in space that is being rapidly erased in the city. Ruchi Vakharia the redesign of the Zakaria Bandar Lane at Cotton Green, was mentioned for the simple and effective use of lighting to make the space safer. Vidhi Jobanputra the redesign of the ticketing areas at Bombay Central, Central, was mentioned for her good analysis and nd understanding of the problem. problem Shraddha Kamat the redesign of the Mahatma Gandhi Udyan at Churchgate was mentioned especially for the attention to providing public toilets in her site.

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SHILPASAGAR |2011

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APOORVA SHENVI

ALTERNATIVE REDEVELOPMENT MODEL FOR THE INNER CITIES OF MUMBAI CASE STUDY OF A PLOT AT ‘CHIRA BAZAAR, SHILPASAGAR | 2011‘C’ 38 WARD. MUMBAI’ | 2011 39 SHILPASAGAR

A “Trying to understand L people’s needs and wants, the demands from the city, and the mayhem created by the redevelopments happening at a rapid pace, the thesis looks at an alternative model for redevelopment of the inner cities keeping the user in focus”

HARSHAVARDHAN JATKAR UNIVERSITY FIRST RANK

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2011 | SHILPASAGAR

BEST OF THESIS 2010-11

AN ICONIC BUILDING. WADALA, MUMBAI

DARSHAN MARU

“Cities are like organisms which keep on evolving and growing continuously vertically and horizontally as well. This fact gets metaphorically reflected in the design.Iconic buildings are seen as pieces of sculptures designed within the urban fabric.”

UNIVERSITY SECOND RANK

BEST OF THESIS 2010-11 SHILPASAGAR |2011

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REDEVELOPMENT OF KING EDWARD MEMORIAL HOSPITAL AND SETH G.S. MEDICAL COLLEGE, PAREL, MUMBAI.

“These hospitals were built in a different era. In order to strengthen the health services in the city, expansion and modernization of these hospitals seems a viable option.”

APOORVA SHENVI

BEST OF THESIS 2010-11 38 2011 | SHILPASAGAR 38 2011 | SHILPASAGAR

VERTICAL SCHOOL “Considering 'LAND' as a resource which is depleting very fast, I have proposed the idea of a 'VERTICAL SCHOOL'.”

PALLAVI BONDRE

BEST OF THESIS 2010-11 SHILPASAGAR |2011 39 SHILPASAGAR |2011 39

JAIN SPACE

ARTI CHANODIA

“The scope of the project was to arrive at an architecture which was nonhierarchical, that is free from fostered beliefs and their representation, and yet continues certain traditions that are important to Jainism.”

BEST OF THESIS 2010-11 40 2011 | SHILPASAGAR 40 2011 | SHILPASAGAR

SHILPASAGAR |2011

The Faucet of Creativity Reflections on a Pursuit gone awry

his has always been one of my most favourite of Calvin and Hobbes strips. Not just because it comes closest to my defination of creativity, but also because it transports me back to my days in JJ as a student of ‘creative pursuits’ in a jiffy. Isn’t this what life as a student of architecture all about? Living in fear of ‘The Submission’ and ‘The Jury’? Of course it is. Yet, today, finding myself on the other side of the fence as a visiting lecturer, lecturer, the slack in creative energy is almost palpable. Uncertain whether this can be attributed to age, I am never-the-less never venturing forth to pen my theory on why this may be… Unarmed with the modern day tools of web-searches searches and cutcut paste, last minute panic panic a few decades ago would break out in all its glory with beads of sweat and tears of fear as the creator went into overover drive to retrive some/any data/skill set from past memories/experiences to gush forth from the faucet of creativity. As a result, willy-nilly, wil creative pursuits included vast doses of hands-on hands on experiences and talents learned at the cost of hard knocks in life… Oh who am I kidding! Yes, we did indulge in literally backback breaking labour at double-elephant elephant sized boards, fingers gone black with with rotering ink and elbows a shiny slate with 2B graphite smears…but nothing compared to the experiences and efforts of those that came a few decades before us….and I’m sure they’d say the same for those before them. …And so we proceed down our collective collective path of creative pursuits: every generation a little less rich in experiences lived and a little more nonchalant about experiences borrowed… happy in our abilities to package, parcel and sell ideas that have less and less to do with reality. But such is the defination of efficiency that the less we put in, the more efficient we are judged to be: Output/Input = Efficieny therefore, anything/nothing i.e. x/0 = Infinity.

Written under duress, post last date of submission, in a state of ‘last minute panic’ using u cut-paste ☺ and emoticons.

- Parul Kumtha, Visiting Faculty at Sir J.J. college of Architecture

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

DYNAMISM OF THE

ASIAN HOME Supriya Krishnan

rchitecture as a science emerged from Man’s humble need for shelter. Hence, ‘a ‘ home’’ is the purest form of design. However modernised the skin, the spirit of a home is its timelessness, where architecture transcends fashion. ‘Beyond Beyond a room with sturdy walls, a roof, a window, a hearth, all else is luxury.’ luxury In an urban context, a slum dwelling would be a fulfilment of one’s desire to own a space and make it home (In the tropics, the hearth may be done away with, making the requirements even more frugal).The efficiency and multi utility (‘live, (‘ interact, earn’) ’) nature makes a slum dwelling widespread across cultures notwithstanding the anomalies. Looking deeper into such a dwelling makes us realise se what makes a person truly belong to a home. It is the simplicity and effective response to the immediate environment. The earliest dwellings, of mud, rock mounds with holes caved in for habitation, pit dwellings, Chinese earth dwellings dwelling (yaodong), Bangladeshi wattle-and-daub daub constructions with beaten earth flooring prevalent since earlier times reveal the basic and minimalist nature of the habitat. A ‘Home’ has always been the object of personal fantasy, a source of delight, a talisman, a personal revelation for the inhabitant, often conceived as a living entity. The Asian spirit of celebrating community over individual, individual the importance of family as an extension of self has led to the formation of a home as an extremely intimate array of spaces. Asia is a land of the many. The Asian landscape abounds in the sheer variety in landforms, ever transforming cityscapes and a lively culture. This makes it almost impossible to categorise or stereotype. This many sidedness and variety is both exciting and endearing. Such diversity manifests itself in India like no other. The gigantic mountains, cascading rivers, the Deccan triangle, Western Ghats, mountain fortress transforming into the tropics t

The Kerala Home (Padmanabhapuram Palace) (Photo source: moreindia.in)

towards the south, climate ranging from the tropical wet terrains to the snowbound Himalayas, this diversity is overwhelming and is responsible for the distinct variations in house design and its surroundings. From the traditional wada (‘courtyard’) houses in Maharashtra, India, the Malacca Courtyard houses in Malaysia, the royal family palaces in Peshawar, Pakistan, residences have always followed the dictum of letting the outside in. in The edge between inside and outside is ambiguous. Climate has been n woven into the realms of a home.

The Javanese Pavilion (Tumpang sari) (Photo source: meinunik.wordpress.com)

Religion, climate and rulers have largely dictated the lifestyle in this part of the world. The fact that more than 90% of dwellings were designed by the homemakers themselves makes the architecture the sole possession of the people. The position of the Sun as a life giving entity is realised with the orientation of houses across countries governed by it. Given diverse weather conditions, the sunlight is either utilised using minimal mass, multiple voids v to retain less heat like the Javanese Houses or blocked with thick walls like the Afghan homes.

SHILPASAGAR |2011

‘The meeting space’ is an important element in the subcontinent manifested in the form of traditional courtyard houses and palaces in matrilineal Kerala, the Javanese pavilion (pendopo), Malacca courtyard houses, Laotin house, Bale gede,, an open pavilion of 12 columns, Wat(Buddhist), (Buddhist), open central squares in the Chinese home and the inner courtyard for the women of the house in Pakistan or Afghanistan. Ironically here, the ‘unbuilt unbuilt’ environment is given prime importance. The built form too is in a state of flux with frames that may be reassembled like a Thai house, built without nails. In hot and humid Tropics vertical surfaces like walls act as an appendage dage permitting privacy, but other than that have a very minor presence in order reduce heat gain, as in Mongolian yurts.. In India, the traditional Kerala home is an enclosed individual unit that remains in use for centuries. Much like China which also encourages ourages inward looking dwellings as opposed to the clustered houses with common walls in Kabul, designed so to combat freezing winters. Melamau Longhouses in the Bornean Landscape, raised on stilts with elevated living floors, give the illusion of a house in motion but also catch ambient breeze cooling the floors. The dynamic placement of a house may also be appreciated at the valley of Caho Praya, Thailand where constant floods have led to houses floated on rafts which can be towed to safety. Ventilation, specifically generated through the ‘Stack effect’,, is achieved through variations in roof design ranging from the Javanese houses with high posts topped by Tumpang sari (layers of beam stepped to create a vaulted ceiling) to the double eaved roof in China leading to the evolution of the Pagoda.. The umbrella like roofs with skylight, low walls in Kerala also reduce vertical surface exposure. In addition light and air are controlled with a variation of openings like the Purdah, Mashrabiya(South of Iraq),Jharokhas (Rajasthan), Jalis(Fatehpur Sikri, Delhi, India), India) louvered fenestrations all based on the principle of the ‘Venturi Effect’. Chinese air locks that block out harsh winds contrast sharply with the wind catchers in Northern Pakistan and Iran. Religion has a vital space in a home, often ften dedicated to a reigning deity or the Mother of the house, like the ‘Thai Thai Kottaram’ (Mother’s Palace) in Kerala.. The part beneath

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

the central section of joglo roof in a Thai home is considered the centre of energy. Living areas are treated as spiritual entities and allocated according to cardinal directions (as in India), or geomancy(Kosala-kosali, kosali, in Bali).Pagodas are perceived as spiritually charged places as they attract lightning strikes because of their height. The transitional space hashti or Dalan-evorudi in Iranian nian homes has steps which helps the believer orient correctly towards Mecca to offer prayers.

Wind Catchers, Iran (Photo source: blog.travelpod.com)

‘Mashrabiya’

(Photo source: en.wikipedia.com) .com)

A broadly open setup duly acknowledges the privacy factor through abodes of seclusion like the traditional Rice Barn (in Lumbung, Bali)) or similarly the (Chamber of solitude) in a Kerala home (‘Ekant (‘ Mandapa’). More than two hundred years of Colonial history has made Asia open to acculturisation, imbibing influences and styles all along the way,

Dean’s Bungalow, Sir JJ Campus, Mumbai, built in late 1800s (Photo Courtesy: Hemangi Kadu)

(French influences in Vietnam, Dutch in Indonesia) bringing about a kind of homogenisation in architecture. The diversity of the subcontinent got overshadowed by the native style of the mother country back in Europe. Renaissance style buildings became a norm with the locals too trying to ape it. In spite of this, recognisable local Influences are seen throughout. Houses of the colonial times however lavish in their approach imbibe elements of a tropical home like verandahs, jalis, and porches. The word ‘bungalow’ is derived from the Bengali ‘Bangla’ inspired from the Rude Cottages of Bengal. The 19th century settlements in Penang Singapore, Samarcand in Tibet and even the tropical Balinese home are essentially an Indian import aptly transformed for the site. ‘Asian values’ can never be a stereotype, ahistorical or monolithic. The rhythm of each home is governed by phases in life: birth, death, marriage; which evokes vibrant responses altering the nature and aura of space. The undulating dynamic terrains, textures in landscape, the contrasts in which people live make ‘a dynamic ‘architecture inevitable and a welcome phenomenon. The larger picture isn’t possible without the fragments in the form of a plethora of culture, forms, styles, thoughts and

aspirations which complete the jigsaw that is Asia. An attempt for the ‘Vernacular Modern’ can be made in terms of technique, aesthetics, trends, influence, while retaining purity of materials and values .Each form blends into and lives and breathes the surroundings; none trying to outshine nature, rather letting nature take its course. It depicts the very Asian Quality of striving for the ‘greater good’ holding true both in case of a palace or a slum dwelling. Responses swiftly manifest themselves; from the flat roofs of Afghanistan to double eaved sloping roofs of Kerala to the Chinese Pagoda, the thick walls of Iraq to the thatched walls of Thailand. The diversity with which each house respects and encourages the religious aspirations and craftsmanship of the people, the infinite ways in which materials and forms are manipulated to stay in tune with nature each time, and how each dwelling is a world of its own, how the undulating and impulsive landscapes are not competitive but complimentary says something about dynamic ethos of Asia. These contrasts along with the underlying thread in which differences are united effectively depict the beauty and dynamism of the Asian Home.

SHILPASAGAR |2011

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

SHILPASAGAR |2011

An Interview with Architect

Shirish Beri Born in 1950, Shirish Beri graduated in architecture from School of Architecture (CEPT), Ahmedabad in January 1974. His works, which tend to reflect his values and concerns in life have been bearing their distinct mark on modern Indian Architecture since 1975. He has designed a number of campuses for national and regional level institutions for research, rehabilitation, health care and education, along with various other types of buildings. Here, he shares with us some stories of his early days, his views about life, learning, art and architecture, in conversation with Hemangi Kadu, a third year architecture student. Photo courtesy: Shirish Beri & Associates

Hemangi Kadu: To start with, tell us something about your college days. How were you as a student? Shirish Beri: That time, Sir JJ College of Architecture was very famous, since there were very few colleges of its kind. So I went to JJ to apply for admission in 1967. I thought ‘aram se milega admission’ with my 74% marks in those days. However, due to some funny rules of the Bombay University, they did not recognize one of my subjects – (special arithmetic). They said that I should study ‘civics’ or ‘Sanskrit’ for the October exams and apply to J.J next year. But fortunately I had applied to CEPT – whose interview was scheduled for the next day. I went to Ahmedabad, did very well in my entrance exam & interview and got in. First year was fully of fun and extrovert activities – long hair (the Beatles influence) and all that. In the second year, I came under the influence of some books and became an introvert, stayed alone and did a lot of reading, thinking. In the third year, though I was doing pretty good in my studies, a deep rooted restlessness crept in giving rise to a lot of questions... what is life, what is architecture, what am I doing here, how do I relate my architecture to life and what relevance does architecture have in life. I started trying to understand what human values are and I almost started writing a book on it. Then I thought I must take a drop from the school for a year atleast, to understand these issues. I told my parents. But then, they said, you are doing so well in architecture, so

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

why do you want to leave it. They thought if I take a drop, I won’t come back! But then we compromised on it. I said that i will not spend my vacations at home. So after third year, when I was around 19, I used to come to my father’s office (He had an architecture firm) and do perspectives for him, hand drawn, because that time there were no computers. He used to pay me for that. And with that money I used to take off and travel alone during my vacations. H.K.: What made you do so? And what did you finally achieve or learn, as a result of doing so? S.B.: As I said before, in the middle of my graduation I wanted to find out who am I, what is architecture, and what is life. So that is why I used to go on mountains, sleep on rocks, on beaches, in temples, on park benches, bathe in the rivers. So I used to spend the money earned in my father’s office in travelling like this. Then, my budget was approximately Rs.10 per day. But that was a very important time for me. That was the time that I used to gather myself. I used to query whether I was going in the right direction. I would observe & criticize myself and this world very keenly. I felt that understanding life is most important. And architecture, painting, or whatever work we do is a byproduct of our understanding of life. Even after graduation, I went and worked in Pondichery for some time and was thinking of working on a farm in Kodai Kanal.

H.K.: How and where did you start working on architecture? S.B.: When I came back, I thought and asked myself what I really enjoyed in life. So what I found was that I liked to be with nature as much as possible. That time, my father had kept some money (Rs. 15000/-) for my travel for higher studies in U.S.A. But then I felt that after studying architecture for 6 yrs, it was necessary to uncondition oneself and to unlearn rather than spending two years learning for masters degree abroad. So I asked my father to give that money to me and I’ll do my own thing. With that money I built my first house, at Gagan Bawda at the edge of the Sahyadri Mountains The first picture of the house you see in the film (The Unfolding White). I built this house when I was not even 24, just after graduation and I started living the way I wanted – with nature. I used to spend almost 18 days every month to do my architectural work there, walk around the jungles, the mountains, and bathe under the waterfall. And I don’t regret this period of my life because of my learnings from the silence there, from nature, the trees, and the animals and from the shepherds. Though I was doing a lot of architecture works, I didn’t want to be in the limelight. I used to come to Kolhapur to visit my sites, my staff and meet the clients. But then again I would go back to my retreat at the mountain house and do my designing and my painting. I spent 4-5 years alone at the mountain house and in 1978 I got married. In 1980 I had my first exhibition of paintings at the Jehangir Art Gallery. When I was there, some person came and found out that I was an architect also. So he started talking to me. And this guy, Sean Mahoney, was an editor of the Inside Outside magazine. The Inside Outside magazine had just started then. So he immediately started asking. “Where do you live and work?” I said “I live in the mountains!” He said “I would like to see your house and work!” So they came and saw my place and my other works. And they featured me as the Inside Outside Man in 1980. This was the first time my work was published, without my intention to publish it. I wanted to be away from all that. But then things happen in life!

another college and one of the students asked me, “What is eco friendly, sustainable and green?” He was asking me the differences and the similarities between these. I said, in spirit they should be the same, I mean similar. But today the way we are looking at ‘green’ or ‘green building’, it has become a marketing gimmick for the air-conditioning and electrical manufacturers. It becomes commercial. For example, Ambani’s building - they may term it in ‘green’ terms, as ‘green building’. But it is not at all sustainable because the amount of energy that has been put into it for so few people is too much. For me sustainability is an attitude to life. Its an attitude of simplicity, of compassion, of caring concern for everybody - all the species around you - living and non- living. Its an attitude where you feel that you are one part and parcel of the planet and the wholeness called life. So sustainability has to be that. And that is what we can see in early vernacular buildings. They are quintessentially sustainable because they are direct expressions of their attitude to life. In true sustainability, there is a marked reduction in the consumption of building related energy at the end use energy level; at the embodied energy level and an increase in the creation of recycled and renewable energy. H.K.: When you design spaces, how do you achieve that connection between the existing (the natural) environment and the ‘to be built’ environment? How do you actually start the ‘conversation’ as you call it, between these two spaces and practically implement it in your designs? (E.g. The lab of conservation of endangered species, Hyderabad. The existing monolithic rocks with a glass facade at its back).

H.K.: What does the whole idea of ‘sustainability’ mean to you? S.B.: Yesterday I was interacting with students in

SHILPASAGAR |2011 Shirish 49 Beri & Associates Photo courtesy:

S.B. : Let me first of all be pretty much clear in what conversation is. I have this feeling of being one with everything around me, whenever I see a rock or whatever in nature, I tend to establish a rapport with it and start a dialogue with it. Now that dialogue is not in one language, neither in Marathi nor in English. Its just a feeling of being connected. So we as architects should have this feeling of being connected to the site. Because, the building, I think, belongs more to the site than to the owner. The owner may change, but the site doesn’t change. For example, if you have an institution then certain institutional management may change totally, but the site on which the institution is, doesn’t change. Whenever I go to a site I try to, sort of, be with it, converse with it. Like for e.g. The Lab of Conservation of Endangered Species, Hyderabad, I set up my office in those rocks and amidst the shrubs for 2-3 days. There was hardly any place to sit. Being a difficult site, being these at the site & designing was important. Thus I could integrate them (the rocks) in my design. Actually those rocks were at the edge of the site, in the set back area. As an architect you have to go beyond the brief and beyond the context. Sometimes you have to create the context. So there, what I did was, I requested my clients, and told them why don’t we acquire more land on the other side of the rocks which was very undulating and uneven, and give a better flat piece of our land to the farmers in exchange. So the farmers were happy that they got a better piece of land, I was happy because we got this land around the rocks. And because of that the building could be designed around the rocks. And the rocks became the focal context. Its not just about making the rocks the focal point. This building is actually, my homage to this millions years old natural heritage. Like trees are just about 200 or 300 years old. But those rocks over there, their age is in millions of years. So this design is my shraddhanjali or my homage to them. I think it is very important to relate to the site, to converse with it. Conversing can be done only if you can be quiet, if you can be still, if you can be consciously aware. Then only that communication or that conversing is possible. H.K.: How do you relate poetry and architecture? S.B.: Poetry and architecture, music and architecture, dance and architecture or for

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that matter, art and architecture... all arts are an expression of what you are understanding in life. Somebody, say a poet will express it through words, or a musician will express his understandings or his expressions through music. Somebody might express it through colours. We as architects express them through the articulation of space. So I don’t separate them. They are all inter-related. H.K.: Your movie ‘The Unfolding White’ is a perfect blend of poetry, music and architecture. So what influenced you to choose movies as a medium of expression of your ideas about life, nature and architecture? S.B.: Film or movie is a very powerful medium. Because film, as you saw, could integrate the visuals, the audio, the poetry and the architectural spaces. So in a movie, expressions are very strong and this urged me to try my hand at it.

H.K.: Lastly, what is your message for the students, the coming generation? S.B.: ...What should I say?! I would suggest that students should, and each person also should be honest with his own self. Basically by being honest, what I mean to say is work from your inner conviction, from your understandings, concerns and values. And be open too. It may change as times go by. Don’t follow the typical rut. If you are asked to design a school in your studio, don’t go looking for books in the library for cutting and pasting. Relate the design problem to life. Ask questions - What is it for? And then ask yourself what is learning? And then you’ll come up with so many possible ways in which learning can happen. Then ask yourself, can my work, can my design, can my architecture contribute to this learning process? Can my design help improve the users’ quality of life? Has my design helped in improving the learning process? Has it helped in imparting knowledge and exchange of knowledge between the students and teachers? You will learn more this way. Finally, messages:

for

the

students,

have

two

‘Don’t measure your life by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments in your life which take your breath away.’ ‘Life is not a problem to be solved, but it is a mystery to be lived.

SHILPASAGAR |2011

ARCHITECT OF MY OWN DESTINY FROM SCIENCE TO DESIGN TO ART… reflection on the essential nature of these two openings invariably gave rise to existential questions, answers of which fell outside the realm of both. Any number of discussions, without exception, ended in JJ alumnus philosophy, which from thereon precipitated into Sanjay personal viewpoints. Merely having a personal Mhatre traces philosophy or a set of beliefs (right-wrong/good-bad his trajectory value judgements) did not seem satisfactory. It through life became amply clear that the search for ‘ultimate and its reality’ is beyond these. Though initially prejudiced against concepts like ‘meditation’ and ‘spirituality’, I significant decided to set aside my pre-conceptions and to nodes… give meditation a fair trial, as the dilemma haunted me. I joined Sir J.J. College of Architecture in 1988 have always where my classmate Vinayak Chittar (who is now a been instinctively drawn towards the ‘how and renowned sitar player) told me about Vipassana why’ of things around me. Being born in a large Meditation. In a ‘leap of faith’ I decided to take a joint family which gave high priority to the year-long sabbatical after my third year (an development of artistic sensitivity, art has been my audacious step in those days) and to sit my first tenconsistent companion. Since my secondary day Vipassana course in May 1991. On its schooling, I have also taken a special interest in completion, I was more than science which stressed the convinced about The Path and importance of logic, ended up staying at Vipassana reason and analysis of "Expressing myself through Visual Art International Academy events in nature. I further was the only way I could resolve a DhammaGiri, Igatpuri. Since prodded into science to head bustling with such creative then there has been no looking grasp the fundamental energy, so I plunged into it." back. The combination of issues of quantum theory, interests in spirituality and relativity etc while architecture played themselves studying Physics at out in my design dissertation titled ‘Architecture: In Bhavan’s College, Andheri, where Ham Radio & the Search of An Ideological Expression’ – Vipassana Electronics Club were my favourite indulgences. Meditation Centre at Garhwal. (Later, my friends at JJ would call me “Ham”). Art & Science proved to be two principal windows of knowledge. I observed that deeper

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I thank my gurus at JJ: Ar.Anand M. Pandit, Ar.H. Masud Taj and Ar.Ulhas Rane who opened my eyes, mind and heart to the very essence of architecture and its human component. Their infinite patience and perseverance to dispel my ignorance and their perpetual inspiration has enabled me to plunge into deeper understanding and insights of the fascinating human endeavour that architecture is. After graduating from JJ in 1994 I master-planned Vipassana Centres at Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Rajkot. I started a self-initiated venture called 'WALK THRU' that rendered service in the realms of architectural design and presentations, 3D modelling, perspectives, walkthrough animation and graphic design. I was also a visiting faculty member at Kamla Raheja Vidyanidhi Institute for Architecture and Environmental Studies (KRVIA). Thereafter I worked in an architectural firm in Dubai for a year and returned to lectureship at IES, Hiray, SNDT and JJ. Throughout this period I was associated with the Global Pagoda coming up near Esselworld. Vasudev Kamath’s paintings provided me the initial impetus when we first met at DhammaGiri in 1995. Thereafter, Vijay Achrekar has been a powerful and consistent support to realign me towards the nuances of art each time I strayed. Jayanta and Varsha Pandit gave their valuable comments and suggestions that helped me look deeper into my works in progress. We travelled together to Paris, Amsterdam, Salzburg, Venice, Florence, Rome, London and Switzerland to study the works of the great master artists. After visiting the art galleries of Europe, Middle East and Asia and studying Indian Aesthetics and Art Criticism & Theory at Jnanapravaha, the latent artist in me was fired-up to pursue art. June 2010 saw my first significant solo exhibition at Jehangir Art Gallery titled ‘Kracking the Koan’. These works are based on my Dhamma Yatra to Sri Lanka (2006) led by Vipassana Teacher Shri S.N.Goenka-ji, in which five hundred Vipassana meditators from all over the world participated. (In a similar Yatra to Myanmar, 2003, I stayed in a monastery and took robes as a monk). The images are sourced from architectural photographs I clicked

during the Yatra. The script in the paintings is taken from 500-year old Khmer / Khom original palm leaf texts of Cambodia. They have been deciphered to contain Buddha’s teachings. The titles of the paintings come from my fascination with Zen. The paintings explore colour fields, composition and calligraphic strokes through Buddha iconography and pagodas, using acrylic paints and silkscreen on canvas. My technical sources of inspiration are Andy Warhol’s silkscreen works and Robert Rauschenberg’s compositions with bold brush strokes. I used sgraffito (streaking strokes to expose the lower layers of paint) for the worn out tactile feel. The paintings from the exhibition can be viewed on my website www.sanjaymhatre.com

The author runs ‘Architecture MasterClass’ which trains aspiring students for the architecture entrance exams and is a visiting faculty member at NMIMS-BSSA. He is currently taking the ‘Ideas in Architecture Theory’ course at Arbour & is working on his dissertation-essay on ‘exhibiting art in a historical architectural space’ - Jitish Kallat’s exhibition at the Bhau Daji Lad museum. Hello: 98202 41043 / artist.architect@gmail.com ____________________________________________________

SHILPASAGAR |2011

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

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Illustration by Mithilesh Jadhav

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SHILPASAGAR |2011

women in Architecture rchitecture today

Resham Mehta

one are the days when women were considered as a mere chattel or a house decoration to be kept in subjugation for the fancy and pleasure of man-the the brute. The days when women were hidden behind veils are gradually passing by. Also the times when women were denied education and the belief that they are meant only for the household chores is diminishing. The present day n has for herself constructed a woman position of respect in the society and proved incorrect the belief that women cannot, like men earn and therefore it was useless educating them. Today ay women dominate all the fields were once only their male counterparts held dominance. Similar is the case in the once male dominated ominated field of architecture. The profession of architecture does not include merely designing and drafting. There is an aspect of professional conduct and practice which is of vital importance. A capable designer should have a broad general education and business capabilities, as well as be an expert in financial management because in the real world money matters. An architect’s work ork is inclusive of supervising works under construction, uction, choosing and examining materials on site, handling the client and the contractor, and dealing with the various municipal laws and land acts. A woman, who is taught to be a homemaker has overcome all obstacles, and established highly successful architecture careers. This is proved by the increasing number of girls taking admission in various architectural colleges and the increasing fame of women architects. The past few decades have been a witness to the landmark buildings designed by women of which many have been awarded by international awards like – Zaha Hadid , the first woman to have 56

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Photo Courtesy: Darshana Rachcha, IV Year B. Arch. Arch

been awarded with Pritzker Architecture award, Maya Lin who created an award winning design for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC at the age of 21, Julia Morgan was the first woman to study architecture at the prestigious Ecole des Beaux-Arts Arts in Paris and the first woman to work as a professional architect in California. During her 45-year 45 career, Julia Morgan designed more than 700 homes, churches, office buildings, hospitals, stores, and educational buildings, including the famous Hearst Castle and the list goes on. Also the past few decades shows an increasing increas number of architectural firms set by women like the Somaya and Kalappa architects firm established by Brinda Somaya, Marianne McKenna is a founding partner of the award-winning winning practice of KPMB Architects, Shelia Sri Prakash, India's Visionary is the chief hief architect and founder of Shilpa Architects and has a distinction of being among the first woman in India to have started and operated her own firm, and the list is endless. Also these women architects have influenced the society, inspired students and laid the foundation for new trends. For women who aspire to become architects, the barrier ‘architecture is a male dominated field’ is broken and the world awaits to be mesmerized by architectural marvels indifferent of the fact that the architect of the masterpiece created is a man or woman.

SHILPASAGAR |2011

Everest Best Students’ Interviews 2005-2010 2005 Gauri Kelkar

They came, they saw, they conquered. Here’s presenting a rendezvous with our celebrated Everest medal winners as they reminiscence through their journey so far. Who or what did you derive inspiration from while at Sir JJCOA? I have always been fascinated by interaction between people and their built environment; the manner in which space is appropriated and transformed to give it a new meaning. As architects we have the opportunity to create the stage for these interactions and thereby influence them and consequently people's experiences. And that has always inspired me to do what I do.

What would you consider to be your masterstroke during your five years at Sir J.J. College of Architecture? I cannot recall any achievement significant enough to be called my masterstroke during the 5 years at Sir JJ COA.

Which year did you win the Everest Student Award title? I think it was 2004-2005; it was the first year that the prize was awarded. Which competitions did you win while at Sir J.J? Won a couple of 'on the spot' team competitions at the Zonal NASA held in BVP COA in 2001. The college won the Rueben's trophy in 2001 & 2002 Annual NASA held at DYP COA (Mumbai) and Satyabhama University (Chennai) respectively. I was an active member of the Rueben's trophy team on both occasions.

Who do you regard as your mentor? It would be difficult to name one person as my mentor; over the years I have turned to & trusted my father, husband and Master's thesis adviser for counsel.

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Favourite Anecdote? Albert Einstein was often asked to explain the general theory of relativity.“Put your hand on a hot stove for a minute, and it seems like an hour,” he once declared. “Sit with a pretty girl for an hour, and it seems like a minute. That’s relativity!”

What would you say is the one thing you loved and the one thing you hated about Sir J.J College of Architecture? One thing that I love is the location of the college. Its proximity to the architecturally rich & culturally vibrant area of south mumbai is a great resource for architecture students. One thing I hated about Sir JJ was the lack of good studio, lecture and exhibition spaces and the general apathy towards the upkeep and improvement of the campus & college.

What would be your message to the current and future Sir JJ-ites? Question everything, work hard and enjoy what you do.

2006 Reshma Dharmadhikari – Soparkar Which year did you win the Everest Student Award title? 2005-06 Which competitions did you win while at Sir J.J? 1) Everest Student Award – 2004-05 2) PEATA (Practising Engineers Architects and Town planners Association, India) – second runnerup award – 2004-05 1) Ashwamedh – Maharashtra State Inter University sports meet – Silver Medal (In Rope Mallakhamb) Who do you regard as your mentor? God Who or what did you derive inspiration from while at Sir JJCOA? Nature, our campus, some past great works . . . What would you consider to be your masterstroke during your five years at Sir J.J. College of Architecture? Thesis. Favourite Anecdote? When I was in my first year, we had a basic design submission in which we had to do a thread and stick sculpture. That time I used to travel by BEST and I was carrying this sculpture in my hands, some people got into the bus and in hurry, they pushed me and the sculpture fell and some of the threads came off. They felt so bad about it that they helped and recomposed it, I was really sad that this happened. When I reached college, the submissions had already begun and I had to

submit the sculpture as it is. I was so tensed, but imagine my surprise when I got 9 out of 10 for the same, I was so shocked, I thanked those unknown bus people in my mind. . . maybe I would have got lesser for the original and this became my master piece, maybe teamwork helped . . ☺ What would you say is the one thing you loved and the one thing you hated about Sir J.J College of Architecture? The thing which I loved about Sir JJ College would be the campus, the atmosphere, the liveliness, the people and hated . . . almost nothing What would be your message to the current and future Sir JJ-ites? Live life fully while being in Sir JJ, don’t be afraid of experiments, to do new innovations, don’t be afraid to walk along new paths but always be grounded and have your basics strong. Always believe in your beliefs because in architecture nothing is wrong or right. Enjoy lots as well as study hard and remember that you will have the best tag in life when you pass out - being a ‘JJ-ite’.

2007 Dwijomala Hanjabam Which year did you win the Everest Student Award title? 2006-07 Which competitions did you win while at Sir J.J? 1. Part of the winning team in the Mumbai University, Kalina Landscape Design Competition 2. Part of the

shortlisted for the Times OOH Media Bus Stop Design Competition Who do you regard as your mentor? It has to be Prof. Pitkar. He was somebody who believed in me and supported me through my 5 years in college. He was 100% approachable and till today he is a just an SOS call away. He gave me the “Just do it” attitude! Who or what did you derive inspiration from while at Sir JJCOA? I would not want to classify as who and what. Even if it sounds cliché, everything about it inspired me. I being a part of SIR J J COLLEGE OF

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ARCHITECTURE in big bold letters was the greatest inspiration. We believed we were a different race of people brought together to make a difference! What would you consider to be your masterstroke during your five years at Sir J.J. College of Architecture? It has to be my first year design of Cafeteria at Nariman Point, where my design professor pulled out the roof of my first ever design model which I made through the night, and told me that from now on, the roof will be the structure of my design. The other part of the model went into the garbage. At the end, it turned out to be a fantastic experience. Favourite Anecdote? Hang in There!!! What would you say is the one thing you loved and the one thing you hated about Sir J.J College of Architecture? This is too difficult to answer. But one thing I really felt touched was that professors were your friend,

the admin guy was your friend, the peon was your friend, canteen chotu was your friend, the dosa waala and nimbu paani waala outside the gate and the principal was your friend apart from all the friends you had in your class that inspired and made me to think for all of them while I designed, and I attempted to design for them all. The one thing I hated is easy; it was the fact that hostel was not inside the campus!!! I cribbed through my five years about it. What would be your message to the current and future Sir JJ-ites? Sometimes it’s frustrating and a hundred and one times you want to quit, but believe me the five years of your life in JJ is the one you would want to come back, re-live every time, every moment of your life. You being part of the SIR J J clan will make you stand out of the crowd. And it’s a great feeling if you stand out as someone awesome. You’ll know what I’m saying once you step out, so Hang in There!!!

2008 Mahesh Nawander competition, except Chess in my third year but I did actively participated in many. According to me it is not only important to win a competition but it is important to participate and work hard. Who do you regard as your mentor? I regard Prof. Rajan Lakule and Y.D. Pitkar as my mentor Who or what did you derive inspiration from while at Sir JJCOA? While in first year at Sir JJCOA, I was inspired by my seniors who dedicatedly worked for college wellbeing and I was lucky to get there guidance from time to time.

Which year did you win the Everest Student Award title? In the year 2007-08 Which competitions did you win while at Sir J.J? I did participated in many academic competitions but didn’t get through them, but I am always satisfied that I at least attempted them, in extracurricular activities I didn’t win any Individual

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What would you consider to be your masterstroke during your five years at Sir J.J. College of Architecture? According to me, the masterstroke was during the second year when I accepted the post of NASA Designee and worked hard to give the best as a NASA Secretary of the college. Favourite Anecdote? The moment when my name was announced as winner of Everest Best Student Award.

What would you say is the one thing you loved and the one thing you hated about Sir J.J College of Architecture? There are many things at Sir JJ College of Architecture, which I loved, one of them is everyone here including students, teaching staff and non-teaching staff is very co-operative. The only thing I didn’t like about our college is we are not taking many efforts to bring good

changes; rather we are trying to use the same historic names of our college while introducing ourselves. What would be your message to the current and future Sir JJ-ites? The only message would be keep learning and enjoy every moment spent at Sir JJ because this time won’t come again in your entire life.

2009 Pooja Ugrani Who or what did you derive inspiration from while at Sir JJCOA? The JJ campus hasn't stopped enchanting and inspiring me from the day I stepped in to give my entrance exam. It is essential for learning spaces to have such campuses. I have spent some very special moments with myself in the campus. As for the Dean's bungalow, I only have the following lines to say-

Which year did you win the Everest Student Award title? 2009 Which competitions did you win while at Sir J.J? I was awarded the 1st prize for Snowcem Faculty Medal 2007: A Night Shelter for Street Children and a Commendation for Faculty Medal 2008: Pedestrian Ways in the City. I was also awarded L. V. Sathe’s Trophy for the Most Outstanding Student in the second year. Who do you regard as your mentor? Every teacher at JJ has been instrumental in shaping me. Mustansir Dalvi has been my mentor and guide. I have learnt a lot about design, writing and editing from him. I thank him for tolerating my extremities, for not clipping my wings and for letting me realise what I want. I have had interesting conversations with Y.D. Pitkar and Parul Kumtha which have enlightened me.

You have to go find her She’s waiting for you; But she doesn’t scream it over the treetops She doesn’t impose her stature On lesser beings like the other buildings Over half a decade You slowly navigate Your course Through the campus; Promote from the peripheral addas Canteen and kattas, Arches and arcades Forums and the autumn house Fuelled by chai, To discover This central mystic core of our campus. A wanderer like me Discovers her One lone afternoon behind bars... What would you consider to be your masterstroke during your five years at Sir J.J. College of Architecture? I helped revive the college magazine Shilpasagar. The journey of poring over old magazines opened up many 'not so known' facts about our dear college's history to me. The journey ended up in a compilation issue: Shilpasagar 2006-07 that celebrated 150 years of the J.J. campus and 75 years of the magazine itself, of which I am the editor.I then began conducting heritage walks for the freshers since 2006 as part of their introduction to college. Favourite Anecdote? "Architecture is a gateway to life; as it was meant to be."

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H. Masud Taj wrote this for me when I asked him to give me an autograph at a book release held at JJ. What would you say is the one thing you loved and the one thing you hated about Sir J.J College of Architecture? At J.J., we were treated like adults. I was allowed to think for myself. Very few institutions can give that to students. It felt good to have an education system that allowed you that kind of freedom especially in a field like architecture. College life was fun in the true sense. I learnt a lot and had loads of fun. I hated the fact that some people treated our college like public toilets; to be used, dirtied and walked out of, with a degree in their hands. I hated the lack of 'apnapan'. I have personally washed the gents’ toilet of the new building and scrubbed my favourite terrace in the new building

after the monsoons. That's how much I've felt like I owned the place. What would be your message to the current and future Sir JJ-ites? Enjoy your half a decade stay at J.J. Life outside teaches you a whole lot of other painful lessons; but while you are in 'our' green haven amidst the urban chaos, have fun, learn, fight, argue, eat, sleep at all untimely hours, have chai, make friends, dance, sing, trace your drawings, write, read, take advantage of the enticing books that our fascinating library possesses, design like you give a damn and open yourselves to everything that this amazing place has to offer. You will remember your stay at J.J. for a lifetime, I guarantee!

2010 Darshan Maru 2006-07) by University of Mumbai (Celebrating sesquicentennial year), Faculty medal award (Gold Medal) for the Year 2008-09 (Pedestrian pathways in the city) First Prize in Memorial design (Year 2009)(Design published in “The Indian Express” dated 2nd February 2009) First prize at workshop on earthquake resistant practices in architecture held at I.I.T, Kanpur (July 2009).

Who do you regard as your mentor? I feel proud that while I was in college I had been blessed with such faculty members who never disappointed me, trusted me, recognized my skill and potential precisely and always guided and helped me beyond my expectation. But, genuinely I consider Prof. Rajiv Mishra and Prof. Ketan Rami as my mentors for they not only taught me architecture but also taught me to ideate and envision the social responsibility as an architect towards the society.

Which year did you win the Everest Student Award title? 2010 Which competitions did you win while at Sir J.J? Zal N. Gobhai Design Award for architectural design for the Year 2006-07. Late Architect L.V. SATHE trophy for “most outstanding student in architecture” for the (Year

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Who or what did you derive inspiration from while at Sir JJ COA? I derived inspiration from everything that glittered while I was in college. From lectures, seminars regarding works of great architects, learning about their success stories, interacting with a very large number of visiting faculty members we had, to even winners at Parhelion. But something inspired me on day one and that is the names of top architects of the city now engraved on a steel plate and mounted on wall chronologically and

that I considered as “Wall of Fame” (next to the door to principal’s office) What would you consider to be your masterstroke during your five years at Sir J.J. College of Architecture? Undoubtedly, I would consider my final year design dissertation as my masterstroke in five years. It was an outcome of one and half years of hard work, patience, dedication and perseverance. Of course, everything I did in college contained these qualities. But, what makes this as my masterstroke is the fact that the final outcome was beyond the consideration of how much I score and instead of a typical jury it was a discussion on what I had presented. On the day of the jury, before the jury commenced all things were in place and looked so perfect. Grand Claude Batley gallery well lit, floor cleaned just few minutes ago, air conditioned, projector in one corner, white panels and white model contrasting against black soft boards and these things were so different from what I had seen as thesis jury over past 4 years. It was more than a work put up for thesis jury, it was an exhibition. I am delighted with the fact that when it came giving something to college, a thesis for students to refer over years, setting a benchmark or an example to get inspired, I could do my best. Favorite Anecdote? Few days had passed after I had presented my final year design dissertation. There was a chain of emails that circulated among almost all students of the college stating that my design resembled one of the designs that floated on internet those days. There was a similar speculation against one of my friends. The way we both had presented our work on the day of jury, it was quite obvious that we would get the highest marks which actually happened when results were out. So it was evident that it is an outcome of sheer envy and a sense of filthy competition. My friend responded to that email in his own way. One of my classmates very aptly replied that what do you call original these days. People who have used juniors for almost everything in thesis cannot accuse others of copying. There is no originality about thesis any way...junior detailing plans, seniors improving sections, professional model, professional rendered 3d views...what is original? I never responded to this email for the reason that no one ever mailed me such mail nor ever told me directly. In fact I was waiting to get confronted; I was enjoying this because I knew I

was not guilty. Unfortunately, I was never confronted. But the ones who struck this spark were wise enough to understand that I was not wrong and even wiser to blind fold the huge fan following that I gained after my thesis against me. What would you say is the one thing you loved and the one thing you hated about Sir J.J College of Architecture? There isn’t only one thing that I loved about college, there are many, huge campus, the greenery in campus which would multiply every year during monsoons, stone architecture (the old building which would always remain cool even in scorching summer heat), massive volumes of studios with queen post truss roof, the workshop (the hangout place for every JJ ite), the brick forum, so many theatres and eateries in close proximity etc. But one thing I loved while being in college was the day of thesis jury. In other words, this day is no less than a festival or celebration in college. Huge and tidy models moving up and down the building, studio walls filled up several 8’x4’ panels, final year students all set for their thesis jury, gang of juniors still helping their respective seniors to complete their work. All other studios and lectures are cancelled on this day while juniors help their seniors and also look and try to understand what design dissertation is. I love the fact that there is such positive energy in that hustle bustle. Finally at the end of the day there is a smile on every final year students’ face after presenting their last design jury in the college and from then they can start as professionals. The thing that I hate about college is that the students are not allowed to stay on campus. Though, fortunately I had an opportunity to stay back when I was in 1st year and our college had participated in NASA. What would be your message to the current and future Sir JJ-ites? “Make hay while the sun shines.” The sun will shine all through the five years at college. Utilize these five years as a catalyst to build your future. These five years and the resources that this college is blessed with will not only train you to become an architect but will also help you become a responsible individual. My five years at the college taught me to work smart rather than work hard and I recommend even you learn that because there are many hard workers around. These five years will probably be the one of the best phases of your life and would give you sweetest memories to rejoice.

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PARHELION A phenomenon that creates bright spots of light in the sky and also, the time of the year when Sir J. J. College Of Architecture is the liveliest. Our college's very own Socials event, which got its name around 10 years back. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an interesting mix of various art forms, music and drama being the prominent ones. The music event, better known as Chords, is the most popular event showcasing many musicians and bands from our own college. 64

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Along with music, there are drama performances, dance competitions and many other activities. 'Marathi Vangmay Mandal' is the Marathi segment of the event, which covers many Marathi Folk performaces and drama. Generally, the Socials event is followed by Sports, intra-college Football, Volleyball, Cricket, Throwball matches. SHILPASAGAR |2011

ONE NATION, ONE VOICE!

(Photo source: www.indiatalkies.com)

when JJ’ites get tired?? Better explained with an example - a crowd of JJ’ites leading the rally shouting slogan of “janlokpal kaayda zalach paahije!” and a crowd of JJ’ites in the second half shouting “Inqualab zindabad!”; the ones in the middle wondering what slogan is to be supported, simply hear it as "inqualab..” along with "...kaayda zallach pahije" from second slogan! (" inqualab kaayda zalaach pahije!"). Thus changing the whole meaning of what was going on. Hearing such weird combinations, the onlookers at such times gave us a nasty look as if asking “Are you guys even serious?" Now who would explain them that yes we are, it is just a part of the accidental humour. So without thinking more over it, we would say “Baghtaay kaay? Shaamil vha!" to fill their minds with a more meaningful thought of joining the rally. The enthusiasm of JJ’ites was so good even after getting tired that an onlooker, a very old man from an adjoining residential building brought a steel plate, held it in one hand and was continuously banging it with

t was when college campuses across the city were abuzz with slogans and protest rallies being organised in favour of Anna Hazare's anti corruption movement and crusade for a stronger Lokpal bill. From hunger strikes to formation of human chains, shouting slogans to silent candle light marches - there was much happening on campuses across the country to show Anna Hazare's movement has caught a spoon to (Students of Sir J.J.College Of Architecture at the rally, Marine drive) the fancy of show his support. Such things gave the required the youth. There was no reason for JJCOA to stay extra boost to carry the rally forward. behind especially when it was being called the After this, we reached Marine drive where second freedom struggle, a first one for the youth a group of JJ’ites performed a play on corruption of India which gave them a strong feeling of which received a good round of applause from patriotism. the onlookers. A number of policemen also being The rally began in the evening after a part of the crowd were watching the play with college hours to reach its destination Marine a smile on their faces, but only until one of the drive/ Azad Maidan as time would have dialogues turned their true smile into a fake one permitted. From the common slogan of “Anna as if saying : ‘waah bacchu humne rally ki tum aage badho.. Hum tumhare saath hai” to the permission di, aur humaari hi uda rahe ho?’ It was innovative ideas coming straight from fun for others to watch and why shouldn’t it be? architectural brains like "itna paisa aata hai kiski After all, for the most serious issues to be absorbed jeb mein jaata hai". The voices were as loud as into the brains of people, need to be tackled with they could be, in one voice, during the initial half humour. ‘n hour. Do you want to know what happens

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Finally some of us reached Azad Maidan where the pamphlets of the differences between the Lokpal and Janlokpal were being distributed. The play was again performed over there, which received a great response from people with some oldies blessing the performers. The people at Azad Maidan even requested the performers to perform the play every day at the Maidan if possible. However to the happiness of all the Indians, the Government had responded positively the very next day. It was true that many of them participating in the rally knew little about the Janlopkpal but they were well aware that. Anna’s battle came with hope of a corruption free country. His fast showed how as individuals we can make a difference. If not completely for the Janlokpal, they were surely for the formation of a stronger body than the Government Lokpal to deal with corruption and the enthusiasm showed it all. On the whole, a day worth remembering for the JJ’ites! Vidhi Jobanputra, III yr B.Arch.

Some of the JJ’ites supporting Anna at Azad Maidan (Appeared in The Times Of India, August 2011)

(Fight Against Corruption – Soumil Adhitrao, Final year B.Arch)

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- Rohit Walimbe

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Rajiv Mishra, Principal Associate college. The college was looking for a replacement to teach the subjects which they taught. I started teaching some of the subjects like professional practice and design. Since I thought that I needed to be educated more to teach well, I decided to apply for a PhD programme to be able to teach better, I did PhD in the subject of Housing, from SPA Delhi, because I realised that out of all the architects Sir J. J. College of Architecture: Then & Now. I joined Sir J.J. College of Architecture as an associate professor in August 1997, after completing my masters in Netherlands. I would divide my experiences in three parts – my first phase, from 1997 to 2003. In 2003, I had gone to do my PhD at School of Planning and Architecture in Delhi and I was on a study leave for 1 and a half years. My second phase is from 2004 to 2008, when I was not a Principal, and my third phase is from 2008 to 201, as a Principal. When I joined in 1997, I was extremely excited to change the methods of learning in our college. The world already knew, what internet was, what email was, but our college was not even aware of it. So I basically took interest in getting one computer that had a modem and an internet connection. Email addresses were opened for everybody and all the staffs were taught how an email works and how it is used. The most difficult thing for me was to open an email address for Pitkar Sir because he was even then laggard at adopting new technologies. I enjoyed my teaching from 1997 to 2002, because I was exposed to some of the best batches in this college. By the turn of century, i.e. by 2000, there were desires to do many new things happening in the world. So accordingly, we got very interesting community projects from the student’s point of view and also from the community point of view to work on the Urban Design Studio. Soon after 2001, the first senior staff started retiring and there was a void in the

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whom we taught, and were graduating, 95% of the architects were doing housing projects. That’s why I thought it would be only apt to do housing specialization. When I came back in 2004, I was exposed to a totally different environment. We had a new Principal Mr. Lakule who was young and also trying to bring in lot of change, which I think was wonderful for the college. So from 2005 to 2008 I was again freshly back after finishing my research work of PhD and having a little more knowledge for being able to teach. When I came back updated from SPA Delhi, I realised that the students I was teaching were not as updated. And therefore my task increased, first to update the people, to tell them what they should be doing as architecture students. I realised that the absorption power of the students between 1997 to 2003 was very high. But that wasn’t the case observed after I came back in 2005. But in 2004, we had one very interesting appointment in the college in form of Prof. Dalvi. Until 2003 to 2005 he was just trying to get things together. In 2005 he started the library project, the archives project, Shilpasagar was revived and we started getting good responses. I was invited to be the Principal in 2008, October 21st by the University. The third phase- after becoming the principal was very challenging for me because everything that was here was to be given a fresh outlook and everything had to be straightened up. The non teaching staff with whom I was working, were under qualified and demotivated. It became so bad that I had to spend a lot of my

time in college, explaining the non-teaching staff what they should be doing, besides my academic teaching. Therefore, we started getting in touch with the Govt. We asked them to look into the college and its problems.I barely managed to succeed to get the then CM, Shri Ashok Chavan to the college. He was kind enough to give us 5 crores. The work had to be done by the PWD because the PWD maintains this college. So I found out that when it came to managing the college it was more difficult than teaching. I tried to improve its academic vigour by incorporating international affiliations with IIT Chicago, Columbia University, and a German University. I see Sir JJ College of Architecture making a big difference in contributing to the development of the country. Because I feel the next decade belongs to the architects. The next decade belongs to India and China. And I feel the architects playing a major role in that fulfilment of dream where students from Sir JJ College of architecture will make a prime difference. People are now taking us very seriously. If not teaching, then what would you be doing? I came to teaching by choice, because I was deeply dissatisfied with my education in undergraduate course in architecture. Being a son of a practicing civil engineer, I chose architecture because I was exposed to architects who were interacting with my father. And I realised that I have a choice – you can either create architecture expressions, or you can create architects. I chose on taking an opportunity to work towards creating architects who will create architecture. I will be able to make a lot of difference in people’s life if I touch them through teaching. So my love for teaching is by choice, because I like to teach. And that is something that I am not able to do now, which I feel very bad about.

students whom I stopped in my lecture was daughter to the Principal. So she complained to her father that I have not allowed her to enter in the class. So he came to my class with his daughter asking me to take her to the class even if she is late. After all the late coming students entered the class, I talked about everything else except the subject that I was teaching! So the students who were attending understood. And they supported it by discussing with me everything else except town planning in that class. And we had a great time. That was a very amusing incident because the students who came on time, who were disciplined, actually respected my decision. Hence if you respect the students for what they are, the students will respect you for what you are. Mumbai floods were a very interesting thing to happen to the city actually, not to me. And we all decided to continue to stay here because the students were here. In adversity everything becomes one and people tend to come together. So we had lunch and dinner together. We bought food for students. That was a nice experience of course- 2005, 26th July.There was one of our students by the name Kush Patel. He was born on 27th of July. I didn’t know, somebody told me. So I went and bought a cake. The man, who makes the cake there, said “I will make the best cake today.” So he made a cake especially for Kush Patel. ’Architecture last resort’ what do you think? I don’t think it is a healthy comment. I would rather talk to students who have chosen architecture and therefore they are doing it. It’s alright if you do architecture in this college or that college if you want to become an architect. That’s why I think there is a difference between people who come to do a course in architecture for five years and people who want to become an architect no matter how many years it takes. I would rather go by this definition. Actually the course sensitises people. It opens up minds of the people towards a way of life.

Does humour play a role in teaching? What do you learn from students? Humour is very important in teaching, if the audience is able to understand it. If the audience doesn’t understand humour, it doesn’t work for the teacher. Memorable moment? My most favourite batch graduated out of this college in the year 2000. They are all well placed now. They were a very intelligent group of people who actually found me very amusing. Because I would not allow anybody to enter the class once I started my lecture. And one of the very amusing incidents was that one of the

Oh... You learn so much from students! Infact that is what gives the kick to a teacher to teach better. They teach you how to teach them. Believe me! Students are the greatest teachers, for teachers who want to learn. If there is no flow between teachers and students, learning cannot happen. Message for the students. Keep learning to learn... Otherwise you will be enslaved.

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Mukund Athavale Memorable moment? The memories are related to the socials. The students used to be after me for singing a song. (laughs). So they used to suggest me some song, their demands… (laughs) farmayish! Once it so happened that, I was taking, 3rd year B.Tech studio. It was seriously going on. Suddenly, the then Social Secretary came to me, inserted an ear plug in my ear and made me listen a song sung by myself. She got so excited, “Sir, see..!! You have sung so well, so why have you stopped singing?” Later on I had stopped singing in socials. This was back in 2002-03. Sir J. J. College of Architecture: Then & Now. ’Architecture is the last resort’ what do you think? I am from VNIT Nagpur. I joined JJ in 1997, as a reader, and I am an Associate Professor now. Since then, major changes are in the syllabus, of course. That time it was a semester pattern, while now we have an annual pattern. The syllabus content was really good and big in amount. So students used to work harder and produce more work. Now the students are becoming more lethargic. And then at that time there used to be a lot of interaction among seniors and juniors, the same thing is missing now. If not teaching, then what would you be doing? O... Oh! Perhaps I would have persued a career in singing and music. Yes, I love it a lot. My grandfather used to teach music in a school. I wanted to learn music whole heartedly and with all its technicalities. If not music, I would have persued a career in playing some musical instrument atleast! I would have loved to play a Violin or else a Tabla! I really don’t think that there is any difference between music and Architecture, or music and any design. There is a design in music; there is music in Architecture. Both the things are well related to each other. In fact I had once introduced Architecture to your seniors, by relating it to music. At that time it was just decided that each and every faculty member will introduce Architecture, in his or her own way. So I introduced Architecture by singing songs and making the students aware about the relationship between music and Architecture. Does humour play a role in teaching? Yes, humour is required indeed. Humour reduces the tension in a lecture room or in a studio, providing some kind of a variation, a break from the serious business. So it is actually a nice refreshment. The students need humour and a teacher must take help of this particular tool of teaching.

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Architecture has to be a passion! The way, some students who like drawing pursue a career in Fine Arts or Applied Arts so passionately, I think Architecture should also be pursued in the same manner. Because as you know it is a mixture of science and art. The problem is that there is a very little awareness about the potential of this particular branch as a career. It is not so popular because it takes some time, for settling after graduation and it does not fetch much money in the beginning. The time period of getting a feedback for your design is another important point. In drawing, like for example painting or sculpture the moment you draw, the drawing is appreciated by the viewer, and the creator of the drawing immediately gets the feedback. But in case of Architecture, a building needs to be constructed. The design needs to be transformed into a reality first and then comes the feedback. So that time period is too long. Plus, there is too much money involved in making that particular building a reality. Design is a cyclic process. You design, go on testing, you get feedback and you go on making improvements accordingly. But that cyclic process takes a lot of time in Architecture. So Architects don’t get quick feedback. Hence they don’t get the applause or the preconisation as in case of fine artists, painters etc. who get more lime light. So that is the thing, Architects are not getting the required lime light. What do you learnt from students? I learn a lot from students and I always get feedback from their gestures, their eye contacts. And then of course I always try to find out, various methods of improving my teaching skills. But again there are some limitations in the infrastructure and the syllabus. But I really want to go out of the syllabus and do the teaching, which is my aim. Message for the students. Just go on remaining a student, forever!

Sushama Joglekar Sir J. J. College of Architecture: Then & Now. I entered the college as a student in the year 1980, did my Masters in '85 and recruited as a faculty in '87. So whatever I experienced in this college was as a student, and now I experience it as a teacher. Compared to that time, when we were students, the office staff used to stay in college for a longer duration. We had a good rapport with them and so it was easier for us to approach them for anything. We had more activities then, as a student. Maybe, comparatively there were less activities happening outside the college and so the students were more interested in doing something inside the college. There were no attractions or facilities for entertainment outside the college back then. Even you cannot imagine something like, us watching movies in the college! Because movies weren’t available on internet, CDs and things like that. That was fun. We had seen 3-4 movies in lecture halls... Rewinding it and seeing it again and again... Whatever! The fun was in the college itself. Students had time which they spent being in the college. If not teaching, then what would you be doing? I think I would give more time to my hobby that is Origami. I could either do Origami or I could start some kind of, you know, Art related activity for the kids or people who haven’t done much in life, thus exposing them to things that Architecture could do. But I’d not go away from teaching. Does humour play a role in teaching? Yes, it does. But then there are some teachers who prepare and they end up cracking the same jokes, year after year. I don’t believe in that. I personally believe that, you know, you don’t have to have intentional humour. I take my class, remembering my own student days. Memorable moment? My very first lecture, when I started my teaching venture in the college. It was an Art Appreciation class. There was this one student who wanted to trouble me, and kept saying ‘Pardon miss’ again and again. I did not know how to handle that situation, and also wanted to of course, have a

control over the class. I was young and nervous, but then I responded back asking him if he has a listening problem? (laughs) The very next day, he did come up to me and apologized. ’Architecture is the last resort’ what do you think? It is not that way. But after having finished Architecture, if not Architecture then you have many other options. Fortunately, now as an Architect there are many options outside. When I joined as a teacher, there was less scope in this profession. But now you can go abroad, learn there, also you have many options for PG courses. Doing Architecture helps you to fit into any design field, Art Direction, Set Designing, Fashion Designing. Certain concepts are very much clear to architects. We have got that ability to understand things because of certain subjects. Again I would say people look at Architecture the wrong way. Architecture is not just about buildings, but Architecture is about the people. Through our Design Projects, we always talk about people. Architects can fit in anywhere, especially because we understand people. What you learnt from students? We would like to learn a lot of things from the students, especially seeing how tech-savvy the students are these days. We’d be gald to have some lessons with students, and learn to make optimum use of the gadgets we have, also develop our software skills. We don’t mind some kind of a session with the students. Message for the students. Don’t keep the work till the last moment. Now that you depend on machines, you have to keep in mind that things can go wrong.

SHILPASAGAR |2011

Jayashree Choudhary Sir J. J. College of Architecture: Then & Now. I joined JJ College as a student in 1980, and passed out in 1985. After working in officeI joined in 1997 as a lecturer. The administration is somewhat same. Mr. Ravi and the accountant were there, and Mr. Gupta had joined a year before we did. We never had problems like you all face, about the cleanliness in classes and the studios. Everything was proper. Since there were a lot of students back then, there were activities like group discussions and all those things. There were interactions between the previous year and the year after, which is not there now, I think. If not teaching, then what would you be doing? I would still be in the field, working in office. I still feel that I would’ve been better in the office, rather than coming here and teaching. Besides architecture, I think I would’ve joined or done major in modern physics. That was my interest. I was very much interested in physics. Does humour play a role in teaching? I think yes, because if the entire class is laughing, then people are more attentive. Otherwise the memory or attention span is hardly 10-20mins. And then the mind goes haywire.So if you keep on injecting some humoures life incidences or if you keep asking tricky questions and make them laugh, students are more attentive. So probably yeah, humour can be a part of it. Memorable moment? Right now I don’t remember about any memories. There were many funny incidences in lectures and studios. ’Architecture is the last resort’ what do you think? I think that is where the basic problem is, in the understanding of architecture. According to me, this is a profession where you directly come in contact with humans. Whatever we are doing, when we plan something, we don’t know who our target is, our end user is. Hence, we have to be

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

more flexible, broad minded and know the needs of the people. We have to please a human being, understand his/her functioning and behaviour, and at the same time understand his/her sensibilities about the colours, texture, and the form. Maybe some people consider it to be a lastresort and hence mentally are not prepared to new challenges, new subjects, etc. But for me, once you have got admission into the college, giving you a professional degree, it becomes your duty to understand, develop liking for the subject. Today after passing out there are various opportunities available in lots of fields. People are now opting for a wide variety of professions after completing graduation. But this is the best profession I would say, as it directly deals with human. But, I don’t know whether students understand it. Message for the students. I think architecture should be taken seriously. I mean this is a professional course, and this is the career they’ve chosen. You cannot just say that “I’ll do it tomorrow”, you just can’t postpone things. There has to be some kind of a time constraint. Once you go in for a professional practice, then you’ll find it. At least here we ask you to work from 8.30am to 3.00pm. There it is like 8.30am to sometimes 10.00pm. So that becomes difficult. There is nothing wrong with the students or their understanding. But it is just that they don’t want to do. They are lethargic. They have the capability, but that feeling to work or feeling to excel in their choosen field is not there. Everybody has to find out their own, let’s say, path or the way of how they can go through or take architecture forward.

Ketan C. Rami Sir J. J. College of Architecture: Then & Now. I joined the college in 1997 and am currently working as an associate professor in Structure. I am a civil engineer specialized in Structural Engineering. Since 1997 the infrastructure has steadily improved. However the shortage of full time teaching faculty still exists. Students over the period have not changed much. However at times we get very good batch of students. What I have noticed is that over the period, the intelligence and sharpness of students have increased with respect to soft skills like use of various CAD softwares, internet, etc. The other side of this is that students are losing their manual drafting skills. Also over the period what I have observed is that students are not inclined to put in hard work. Earlier we had semester system and now we have yearly pattern. In yearly pattern, normally students work towards the end of the term. I think we should have more parallel activities like NASA, Faculty Medal, various competitions that will encourage the students to give his / her best without any pressure, which normally they feel for academic curriculum subjects. If not teaching, then what would you be doing? I was meant for teaching only. We teach as well as we practice. Teaching is by choice, and not by compulsion. When I graduated, it was from an engineering school and job placement wasn’t an issue at all. Even when I came to teaching, I had options to select college. I chose to be in architecture. Engineering is basically linear thinking. Here we have non-linear thinking. But the output is the same.

’Architecture is the last resort’ what do you think? No, no, this is all untrue. Those who go to engineering, they develop creativity through linear thinking. Those who come to architecture are naturally creative and develop non-linear thinking. The most successful combination is that of a civil engineer and an architect. They will complement each other. One is extremely creative; other is creative by linear thinking. It is not that, just because you didn’t find place in medicine, or engineering that you came into architecture. It has specific requirements to succeed. I’ve seen students not meant for the field of Architecture failing miserably. You got to be creative; you got to have strong drawing as a medium of expression and be open to learning. Only then can you survive in architecture. What you learnt from students?

I don’t have much idea. But the basics of academics have to be taken seriously. Combine that with the lighter part so that you enjoy. Remaining serious all the time is not right. Also, students should understand the professor’s humour.

Teacher is a student first. When I say “a student”, I mean someone who is open to learning. Any teacher, who is not a student, is not a teacher. As a fact, all teachers learn from students, always. Those who say they don’t learn from students, means they have shut theirdoors. Then you stagnate, decay. Even if you spend your whole life learning, you cannot master anything. The most important learning is non-linear thinking leading to creativity.

Memorable moment?

Message for the students.

The most memorable moment being in this college is when the Chief Minister Mr. Ashokrao Chauhan visited our college in 2010 and announced Rs. 5 crore financial help by the State Government for the improvement of our college. Also University of Mumbai asked me to act as an Incharge Principal of this college in 2008, which I politely declined due to my background.

Nature is the biggest architect and teacher. We have 56 faculties in Mumbai University. Technology has engineering with its branches, and architecture, yet is just one faculty. Then you have law, and then your languages, 56 faculties in all. Spend your whole life and still you can’t master a single faculty. That is why I tell you, the more you will read the more you will know and the more you will realize how little you know. Therefore be humble in life and practice keeping in mind your social responsibilities.

Does humour play a role in teaching?

SHILPASAGAR |2011

Iqbal Sheikh Sir J. J. College of Architecture: Then & Now.

Architecture is the last resort. What do you think?

Students then were more work oriented and were much more sincere than what they are today. There’s been a drastic change, the present generation is very smart, they try to avoid as much work as possible and find the easiest way of doing it.

Aisa toh nahi hai ki last resort hai Architecture. It’s a choice. I told u that I’d done Electronics Course from VJTI, I had to leave it when it got boring. And then I got into Architecture. So it is a choice, you do what you like. But aisa nahi hai ki architecture karneke baad kuch aur nahi kar sakte, there are many options.

If not teaching, then what would you be doing? I was happy with my profession, I was practising. Only when I was invited to the college to teach, I came here and stuck to it. Although, the monetary gain in practising was three times what I get right now. But I enjoy teaching.

What do you learn from the students? We always keep learning from students. The coming generation is very sharp, so we keep learning from them. Message for the students.

Does humour play a role in teaching? See, teaching shouldn’t get monotonous. You wouldn’t want people sleeping in your class, humour keeps the class lively. Isiliye zaroorihai.

Take a lot of interest in everything you do and work hard. Tum logdhyan se padho aur aisa ho ki hamare sab toppers ho. Everyone should try for higher percentage and higher merit. Aur ek sher farmaya hai.

Memorable Moment. Trophies lekar aate hain na, toh bahut accha lagta hai. There was this guy called Aditya, I don’t remember from what batch, who’d outperformed and it was evident right from his first year. Tum logon keliye bhi kaam rakha hai. Par tum log kartenahi ho. (laughs)

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

“Hai justajoo ke khud se, hai khub par kaha Ab dekhiye theherti hai jakar nazar kahan”

Mustansir Dalvi Sir J.J. College of Architecture: Then & Now. I joined Sir J. J. College of Architecture as a student in 1981 and passed out in 1986. I came back to do my masters over here and completed it in 1989. I taught for about three years as a visiting faculty until 1990. I joined this college as a professor in 2003 and I have been here since then. Physically there hasn’t been much change. We are almost using the college just as we were using it at that time. We still have the same 3 spaces - old building, new building and workshop. Till 2003, the workshop was used as a workshop. However now it has been transferred. I think the real change has been in the way students are learning nowadays. That is, what we are teaching in a sense, is considerably different from the time that we were studying. We did not have much of a context. We had beautiful clean spaces and vast areas of land in which we would design and work. The major change which has happened now is that we are doing things in an absolutely real world. It is very complex having all sorts of influences which we would have earlier just ignored. What we learn now is much more directly connected with the world outside. As far as activities are concerned, when we were students NASA was the biggest event of the year for us. We have taken part in almost every year when we were students. But from last 4 years we have stopped taking part. But what has compensated for that has been a very good thing for the college. That is, instead we have taken part in so many other national, international level competitions and also won them which has provided an amazing boost to the morale of the students. We also have competitions within the college like for example, the Faculty Medal Competition. The point of all this is to always keep an eye open to the outside world. The other activity has been the Shilpasagar, which has never been fully active. So whenever it does come out, it’s an event to celebrate, because a lot of effort goes in making it. I can only hope it becomes a yearly phenomenon. And of course the real difference has come with the use of technology. At that time we didn’t have much technology. We had a lot of each other which is why we used to hang around here all the time. I must have slept in every room of this college, again which was possible then and not now.

If not teaching, then what would you be doing? See, we join Architecture to become Architects, no question of that. So all the 5 years the major aim in life was to practice and not do anything else. Obviously if I wasn’t a teacher I would have been practicing. Does humour play a role in teaching? Humour is very important. If one doesn’t have a sense of humour how is one going to really communicate in a way that people will remember? Humour is also important to keep yourself sane and not to take oneself seriously, the ability to laugh at oneself. Without it you would be a very dry and artificial person. The most amusing memory you have had? I remember the first lecture in college which was graphics. In that we were all told to draw a double decker bus in our sketch books out of memory and I think the most memorable thing was that I had got 0.5 marks in it out of 10. Now I look at it with a lot of humour but that time I was not very amused. ‘Architecture is the last resort’ what do you have to say? To me it is completely irrelevant because you become an Architect after you join an Architecture College. Before that you are just a student who has passed 12th standard. You don’t have to come with any god given talent. All you have to do is come with your eyes open and have a general willingness to look at the world and absorb things in the world. Anybody can become an Architect in 5 years. Things you have learnt from students? Teaching for so long the only thing i learnt is from students. They are the most important resource for any sort of learning at all times.

SHILPASAGAR |2011

Yashwant Pitkar Sir J. J. College of Architecture: Then & Now. I came to Sir JJ College Of Architecture first in 1985 to join the Masters course in Architecture and then as a full time teacher, from 1987, that’s almost 24 years. Then and now, actually, nothing has changed. Anybody who leaves the college feels there is a change. I’ve been here for 24 years, I see no change. Nothing changes. Except, I think more than 10 trees have fallen down and no tree has been planted by anyone.

If not teaching, then what would you be doing? One thing that I enjoyed was, to fly. Fly gliders, not commercially, but have fun, jump out of an aircraft and travel in deserts or ruins all over the world / all over India.

Does humour play a role in teaching? I think I would put it like this, that teaching is a very serious business but if you are teaching very seriously it might not catch attention of students so in case of humour I would say, to make it light and interesting enough, so that people will listen to you. And only if they listen to you, they will learn.

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

Memorable moment? I think in 24 years there might be atleast 15-20, but the one I can remember is holding a rock concert by Rock Machine (Now Indus Creed) for NASA because it shook almost the whole college and the staff of having a rock band playing for our college. I wish we have more such events, its great fun dancing, though I don’t. ’Architecture is the last resort’ what do you think? I think it is not a good thing to ‘think’. One should join only if he/ she is serious about architecture. Unfortunately the education upto 12th does not tell you what Architecture is all about. Very few join with a serious thought, and most of them learn about it later. I wished there was some mechanism which could allow them to leave Architecture after 1st year because it’s something much serious. What you learnt from students? You can see a lot of change and the easiest way to see change is through younger people and accept change. One can resist also, if you don’t agree to certain things. But one has to find the reason behind change and then one understands why change takes place. Message for the students. Architecture is a very passionate thing to me and I think, one should be serious about it. One could look at it as making four walls and a roof, but it is much more than four walls and a roof. Bye!

PICTURE PLANE His shifty eyes drift with the shift of the picture plane his restless fingers click with the dance of the shutter vanes, capturing sunshine on stone and straight lines in love with curvaceous shadowsâ&#x20AC;Ś

- Harimohan Pillai Chief Architect at Archiestudio, Thrissur

SHILPASAGAR |2011

Seen yet forgotten.. But the Shadow Reminds.. The echoing chimes give Haunting signs.. A spot named ‘Airport’.. Infamous yet happening Revolving around one man.. Silent yet charming Aware of all the gossips And fights Seeing generations roll out,

Kaka just smiles.

Pनकालना है

कूल का | तो वो professor पे

Hari Kaka – the Caretaker

थे, ताRबेकS टं कS पानी भरके रखते थे पीने केVलये

आप कॉलेज म0 कौनसे साल आये ?

उस ज़माने म0 | वो model लोग होते है न fine art

| तभी

हमलोग तो "पताजी के ज़माने से यहाँ है | "पता जी १९३४ म0 इधर आये थे | पहले कुछ अलगह माहोल था इधर | हमलोग का शेड था इधर

टुड0Dस बहोत कम थे ना, धोती मे होते थे

के, मॉडल बैठते है उन लोग को "पताजी WS म0 नाTता दे ते थे |

छोटा,पहले क>ट न नह ं था, शेड था | Lफर "पताजी

तभी के

को क>ट न Aदया गया| हमलोग इधरह पैदा हो गया

फक होगा न ?

था | "पताजी के टाइम म0 बहोत अCछा था, अभीभी टुड0Dस लोग आते है , अCछा लगता है | "पताजी

तबका जे.जे और आज के जे.जे म0 Nया फक है ? हो, गंदेसे गJदा

कूल रहे गा तो भी

कूल

टुड0ट के ऊपर

depend है , पढाई करने का काम अपना है , नाम 80

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

टुड0Dस के काफS

अभी बहोत difference है | तभी सबलोग साथ म0 रहता था, अभी सब अलग रहते है , fine arts और architect लोग साथ म0 रहते थे | अभी के

१९३४ से इधर थे, वो १९८४ म0 गज ु र गए |

पढाई तो होता रहता है , कौनसा भी

टुड0Dस और अभी के

students तो involve भी नह ं होते| First year तो first year के साथ ह रहते है , Lकसी के साथ involve नह ं होते | पहला ऐसे नह ं होता था, involve होते थे, भले ragging लेते थे, ragging Lकसके Vलए

sports है | अपने यहाँ कुछभी नह ं Vसफ football का सुननेको Vमलता है | अभी तो pen drive डाला तो roll Vमलता है | पहले पूरा काम हाथसे होता था, एक आदमी के height के board होते थे | पहला हर एक पॉइंट का

rotring रखना पड़ता था, वो लोग पहले clutchpencil से Vलखते थे उस के ऊपर बाद म0 writing करते थे, अभी तो laptop पे होता है | जब तुम लोग का design paper होता था, पूरा एक Aदन Lकधर जानेका नह ,ं Pनचेभी उतरनेका नह ं | कुदारकर सर थे | उJहcने बहोत लोगोको पकड़ा था, कॉपी करते वdत | चाय लेके जानेका हमारा काम होता था, Lकतनाभी कुछ हो जाये वो fail कर दे ते थे, rule के Aहसाबसे वो बराबरथे | अभी तुमलोग सब काम machine पे करते हो | Workshop के बारे म0 कुछ यादगार रहा है ? Workshop Lकतना म त रहता था, सब

आप आपके freetime म0 Nया करते हो ? पहले सब करता था, खेलता था, सब होता था, अभी तो कुछ नह ं है | "पNचर दे खता था, लेLकन अभी मजाह नह ं उसमे| आपको कु छ सJदे श दे ना है students के Vलए? Vलए खद ु मेहनत करके आगे बढ़ो, professor के ऊपर depend मत रहो | अभीभी बड़े-बड़े लोग आते है पढ़ाने केVलए, nबल मौया ,Lकतने बुoढे हो गए है | वो ८० साल उq है उनका| वो शrs परमार, Lकतना बड़ा आदमी है, पूरा व ड म0 नाम है उनका interior मै | Lकतना rich है वो| अभी वो इधर आता है तो सब सामसुम रहता है | कैसाभी professor हो तुमलोग उधर बैठो, जtर रहता है | कोई कोई बोलता है, कS उसको मालूम नह ं कुछ, अरे अगर उसे मालूम नह ं होता तो Nयc आता वो पढ़ाने के Vलए? आपने Vश पसागर के बारे म0 सुना है ? नह ,ं पहले कभी सुना नह ं | अभी तुमलोग job के Vलए जायेगा तो J.J. बोला तो job पहले दे ता है , out of state म0 भी, अरे J.J. का student है interview का जuरत नह ं , आजा |

शाम तक रहता था | जबतक काम ख़तम नह ं होता

पहले rotring छोड़के जाते थे बड़े-बड़े घर के बCचे, तो

तुम उधरह काम करने का |

"पताजी रखते थे और गर ब student को दे ते थे |

कुछ funny incident याद है आपको? आपको? मजाक तो बहोत करते थे लोग, बहोत साल पहले एक student हो गया िजसने बहार से बCचे लोग लेके आया मारने केVलए, उसको पूरा boycott कर Aदया सबने, उसको कॉलेज से Pनकाल Aदया | मतलब सब

टुड0Dस एक जैसे था उनलोग को |यहाँ

सबलोग पढाई करने आये है , दादाgगर करनेको नह |ं पहले झाड़ू मारने लगाते थे brush से| पहले students लोग खद ु ground का घास Pनकालते थे, बड़े-बड़े घरके लोगभी थे | आपका पूरा नाम Nया है?

Germany का आता था, कRपास बॉNस पूरा सेट आता था | खोलने का भी पता नह ं था | पहले सब होता था, अभी कुछभी दे खने नह ं Vमलाता, बड़ाबड़ाTscale ,लकड़ेका | पहले वो blue print आता था, अमोPनया "vंट बोलते है उसको | मै एक architect के पास काम पे भी था | B.K. Gupta के पास जॉब भी Lकया मै, बहोत बड़ा आदमी है , उसके पास Mercedes car है | जब तक क>ट न था तब तक इधर आके खड़ा रहता था | "पताजी का फोटो दे खता था ,"पताजीने उसको बहोत हे प Lकया था, चाय मांगता था, ५० का नोट दे ता था और जाता था और बोलता था, "बेटा संभालना |"

हjरkंl कोAटयन | "पताजी को रमैया बोलते थे |

SHILPASAGAR |2011

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

AN IDEAL CAMPUS -

A RUN D. R ANADE

Ex Architect MMRDA, Ex GM Nabard It would be readily conceded that the campus as it exists today of Sir J.J.Collegeof Architecture needs various improvements some which could be effected on a short term basis and some on a long term basis. The interested parties would be the principal of Sir J.J.College of Architecture, the core faculty, the visiting faculty, the students and the various institutions like P.W.D. Mumbai University,Director of Technical Education, the Government and the press. Short term improvements which could be effected straight away are as follows: 1. All the garbage and the rabit and various unwanted things lying all over the place needs to be removed as a one time operation, and permanent garbage collection spot needs to be shifted at the rear near the rear gate whose clearance on a daily basis can be easily supervised by PWD. And PWD and MCGB made responsible for daily clearance. 2. Arrangements have to be made for daily sweeping and cleaning of the premises including the various buildings and the adjoining areas like roads and open spaces so that with the fallen leaves all over the place it does not look like a game reserve where man does not intervene and nature is allowed to have its own say. It must be remembered that the dried leaves and heaps of them all over the place constitute a fire hazard. 3. All the broken and missing manhole covers need to be replaced with new ones which will prevent accidents. 4. Beautiful masonary work of the old building needs to be cleaned professionally so that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t depend upon rain gods to do our work. 5. Landscape plan for the entire campus needs to be prepared and then executed but as even this could be expected to take time , as a short term measure various trees that block the natural light and ventilation to the studios and working areas need to be pruned on scientific basis and shrubbery or hedges clipped and trimmed and jungle growth removed and proper lawn planted for the first time to the north and west of the old building and in the u shaped area of the new building and these areas made accessible by removing barriers. 6. There are areas in the old building where reinforcement in the slab has got exposed whch needs to be gunited and replastered and white washed. 7. Soft board in the studios needs to be covered with appropriate fabric which would imprve the light and the feel of the studios in the old building. 8. Lighting level in the studios is nowhere near what is prescribed by the National building code this could be achieved by duplicating tube lights and by using appropriate lighting fixtures. 9. Enough points need to be provided so that students can use lap tops. 10. Buildings need to be whitewashed every two or three years as per PWDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own norms. 11. In the new building we now have a situation wherein we an old steel grill from inside and aluminium grill from outside making it impossible to clean the windows either from inside or outside; therefore the old grill from insde needs to removed but even then cleaning the windows from outside is not going to be easy because the new grill is very close to the windows. 12. There are a few structures at the rear which appear to be unauthorized which need to be removed, perhaps a notice from the BMC for demolition might help so that the area can be cleaned off.

Long term measures could be as follows: Preparation and execution of landscape plan for the entire campus or at least that which is adjacent to college of Architecture which is the most neglected one. This should cover hard and soft landscaping and take care of storm water drainage and resurfacing of roads .Rainwater harvesting and making use of fallen leaves for compost preparation could be some of the features.Flowering trees and shrubs and plants with perfume or colourful flowers and with medicinal values are almost nonexistent, manicured lawns and topiary work for hedges Flowering and perfumed trees and shrubs

SHILPASAGAR |2011

and hedgesand climbers can turn the campus into a joy for ever if planned executed and maintained well. Sports is also a part of education and what was a Gymnasium in our tome in the sixties need to be restored to the same use and not locked into oblivion for no apparent purpose. Conscious attempts need to be made so that students of Fine arts , painting , sculpture and commercial arts , photography and printing and architecture are brought together so that there is a latateral learning. We cannot use what was in our times a carpentary workshop as a studio for 4 th year unless we refurbish it. We should not have ill ventilated canteen with some stones painted white so shaped that nobody can use them as out door seats. All the windows in the old building and what was a carpentry workshop need to be replaced by new ones so that plenty of light and ventilation is available and so designed that they can be opened and closed conveniently and also cleaned from outside and inside and are made pigeon proof.

2. 3.

4. 5. 6.

All these changes are possible if interested parties take interest and movement is created and sustained till this is achieved. Till then why not hope and dream and work towards it.

Arun D Ranade Ex Architect MMRDA, Ex GM Nabard

MOHEN-JJ-O-DARO

- Rohit Walimbe

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

E U RE KA ! ( I N S T A L L A T I O N B R I C K F O R U M , S i r

S I T E :

J J C O A )

An untold fact, I bring fore, For beyond bricks and mortar, these walls store, A story that mundane eyes cant see, that promises to amuse and mesmerize thee. Once upon a time...... During a colossal clash, the comradescomrades-inin-arms had a sudden flash! They tripped on a secret, and bottled it all, And hid it, within these walls. As far as inquisitiveness goes, To rebuild old legacies was what man chose. Seeing their secret on the brink of danger, the comrades decided to hide it from strangers. They gathered their men from the edges of the world, And came back to the walls, where their secret, they unfurled. They took it with them, and never gave it back. So, this was the story....... and its a fact. fact. ByAnkit Shah, Shraddha Kamath, Archana Sonavane, Tanmai Hatekar, Gauri Malur, Anushree Patil, Prerna Damani.

SHILPASAGAR |2011

MORE THAN JUST A BIRTHDAY… 27th July, 2005 is a day Mumbaikars can never forget. Torrential rains had wreaked havoc and the whole of Mumbai was flooded. The city that never slept had been brought to a standstill. Since, all transport services had come to a halt and people formed human chans to get to shelters. Every Mumbaikar trying to find its way home had a story to tell. However rutheless the rains were, the city came together in this time of adversity.

Stranded in college, professors and students were trying to work out the easiest way to spend the night in the safe cocoon of The Old Building. But was it just a troublesome night? Or was there more to it? Ruchita Jagzap, who was stranded in college like several others has a story to tell..

ˆAll I could say is, the campus was more than a Shelter when the whole of the city was drowning.. Ironically, we could not even feel the pain/ suffering and had it [the moments] as one of the best memories till date from this Alma mater. It was only when we stepped out the other day and got connected to the real world [T.V., news, mobiles, people, streets, home..], we realized that the calamity had taken away so much from the city and its people.. Mishra Sir, Pitkar Sir, Dalvi Sir and Rami Sir were some of the Professors who were stranded along with us. Mishra Sir brought a chocolate cake for Kush as it was his b’day so that all of us can have some fun and especially to bring smiles on our faces as we all were missing family and most of us could not even get in touch with them as all the networks were down.. It was indeed a great surprise from him!! [I guess he had gone to colaba, from where he got it] Celebrating on one of the very sad day has its own different feeling that cannot be expressed through words since it was all mixed.. All thanks to the lovely place and the second home for most of the students of Sir J.J. College of Architecture..˜

R U C H I T A

J A G Z A P

M.Arch. Urban Design, UCL, London B.Arch., Sir J.J. C.O.A., Mumbai C U R R E N T L Y

W O R K I N G

Raagin Karman architecture l landscaping l interiors

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

A T

SHILPASAGAR |2011

द "हो टे ल" पाट ऑफ लाईफ ! बyयाच Aदवसाने VलAहतेय आज. ए"vल मAहना, शेवटची पर zा झाल , हो टे लची tम jरकामी करायला ३० ए"vल पय{त मद ु त Aदल . पण पर zा होऊन २० Aदवस झाले तर शेवटCया Aदवसापय{त मा}यात हो टे ल सोडायची AहRमत न~हती. मर न •ाई~ह सोडवत न~हता. सकाळी ४ वाजता गाडीने मब ुं ईला Pनघायचे ठरवन ू आई बाबा Pनlा दे वीCया आधीन झाले. मला काह के या झोप येत न~हती.. आधीCया पो ट म•ये पण हो टे लचा बyयाच वेळा उ लेख झालाय पण तर ह एक वेगळं पो ट VलAहत आहे . जे. जे. ला अडVमशन होऊन स‚ ु ा राहायचा vƒ अजून सट ु ला न~हता. हो टे लम•ये अडVमशन „यायचे सगळे vय… कtनदे खील Vल टम•ये नाव न~हते. सरु वातीला आतेबAहणीकडे डcnबवल वtन अप-डाऊन करताना माझी

काह ंशी बेNकार वाजलं. •यांCयाशी वाजलं ‡यांना तेच हो टे ल सोडेपय{त नाकS नऊ येईपय{त Šास Aदला. पण सगळी मजा, धमाल, gधंगाणा. AदवाळीCया स‘ ु ीत लवकर घर पळायचं होतं ते~हा

कसरत ~हायची. आधीच लोकलची सवय नाह आ†ण ‡यात

सबVमशन संपवायला मारलेल पAहल night आ†ण पAहल

पAह या वषाला मोठ& मोठ& थम‰कॉलची मॉडेल घेऊन कसे

जी.ट अजूनह आठवते. पAह या वेळी सगळे एकदम

बसे लोकलम•ये पाय ठे वायला जागा Vमळायची. कधी

उ‡साहाने काम करत होते, मधे मधे फोटो मधे पोज दे त

एकदा हो टे ल Vमळतंय असं झालं होतं. ‡यात एकाकडून

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पAहल च वेळ होती. ‡यानंतर तशा अग†णत राŠी आ या

मारा तरं च जमेल. दोन मAहने कॉलेजला पण एवढं वेळेवर

गे या पण ‡यांचा पाया ‡या Aदवशी घातला गेला.

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वतःहून जा त मजा करायचो. spiderman पासन ू चमेल पय{त सगŽयांCया

मार या हो‡या. वतः काढले तर कमी वेळ जाईल हे माAहत

नकला, फुलनदे वी आ†ण मJ ु नाभाई Cया ल•नात आRह

असन ू स‚ ु ा राŠभर जी.ट मारŒयासाठ& नंबर लावन ू आRह

सगळे मनमरु ाद नाचलो. काह सेPनयसशी पटलं आ†ण

जागायचो. राŠीची पAहल कॉफS आ†ण ती "पŒयासाठ&

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

बा कनी मधे घेतलेल धाव अजूनह वेड हसवते.

Pतसyया वषाला जे.जे. Cया PनकालाCया

पाŒयासारखी थंड झालेल ती कॉफS "पताना बेNकार

politics ने आRहाला हादरवन ू सोडले. हो टे ल

हसलोय. राŠी एका tम मधे Aदवे बंद कtन पाAहलेलं

मधून काढून टाकायची रे Nटरची रोजची दमदाट

Lक‡येक Vसनेमा, सबVमशन Cया वेळी ऐकलेल एक-सो-

Aदवसाची सरु वात आ†ण शेवट डोŽयात या

एक छपर गाणी, मोठमो’याने †खदळत रे टलेले friends

पाŒयाने ~हायची. लोकांCया नजरा बदलायला

मधले dialogues, सगळं ~यवि थत जमलं होतं.

कोणतेह कारण परु े से असते हा परु े परू अनभ ु व

Pनयम तोडणे हो टे लमधेच जा त Vशकतो माणूस. मा}या आय“यात ह वेळ आल जे~हा मी कॉफS मेकर घेतलं. सप ू , maggi , चहा, कॉन भेल असे सगळे Pनयम आRह तोडले. रे Nटरची फेर ~हायची ते~हा कॉफS मेकर, इ”ी लपवŒयाCया वेगवेगŽया जागा शोधŒयात आRह पटाईत झालो होतो. cheese -maggi खाऊन अzरशः चाटून संपवलेल डीश, सोबत iced tea peach, ह मा}या tम मधल नेहमीचीच पाट•. हो टे लला लागणारे सगळे सामान वाटून घेतले जायचे. घर आई आणते तसा Lकराणा आणायला crawford market ची फेर ~हायची. कोणाचा वाढAदवस असेल तर "वचारायलाच नको. राŠी बारा वाजता केक खायला सगळे आसस ु लेले असायचे. पोटात जावो व चेहyयावर लागो, दं गा बेNकार. ‡यात chocolate केक चा corner piece खाŒयासाठ& मारामार ~हायची. मो’याने गाणी लावन ू एक तास तर वेoयासारखे नाचायचो. मेस Cया जेवण कधी आवडायचे नाह च पण तर ह सगळे एकŠ बसन ू खाताना दोन घास जा त जायचे पोटात. ताई Cया नकळत ताटात Lकती तर वेळा रायता Cया दोन वाDया जा त घेत या असतील. िजलेबी असेल तर हNकाने ताटात डcगर होईल एव–या घेत या जायCया. र"ववार लवकर उठणे नसतेच पण १० ला उठून इडल आ†ण दप ु ार gचकन खाŒयासाठ& केलेल धावाधाव बघन ू नंतर आRह वतःवरच Lक‡येक वेळा हसायचो. शPनवार र"ववार स‘ ु ी असेल तर ह दोन Aदवस वाया घालवन ू र"ववारची राŠीची

आला. हो टे ल मधे renovation चालू असताना वर खाल दोJह मज यांवर œलोjरंगCया कामाचा r•Vलंगचा आवाज, पर zेCया ७ Aदवस आधी बदलायला लागलेल tम आ†ण अजून Lक‡येक Šासांम•ये कसा अžयास केला आRहालाच ठाऊक. चौŸया वषाचा Pनकाल जे~हा मनाvमाणे लागला ते~हा आ‡म"व ास अजून वाढला. पण ¡ा वेळी मनाचा धीर वाढला आ†ण वतःला कोण‡याह पjरि थती मधून बाहे र काढायला Vशकलो. आपण काय Vशकतो आ†ण ‡याची प‚त घरCयांना कधी कळल नाह ‡यामळ ु े थोडेसे माक कमी झाले तर ऐकावा लागणारा ओरडा संपवन ू टाकायचा. हो टे लला राहणार Rहणजे नNकS वाया जाणार अशी समाजाची concept है राण करायची. घरची आठवण, vोफेसरने ऐन वेळी बदलायला लावलेले designचे टे Jशन, मरमtन काम कtन पण कर¤ट होणाyया files रडवेलं कtन टाकायCया. पण अशा वेळी एकमेकांना धीर दे त सगळे मदतीला धावन ू यायचे. Lक‡येक गोड व कटू zण आले गेले पण ‡यांनी आRहाला घडवलं. आज कोणालाह मी आLकटे Nट आहे सांगताना या सव गो¦ी आठवन ू मान ताठ होते. आगळी वेगळी कहाणी नाह ये ह पण ती परत परत सांगायला कधीच कंटाळा येत नाह ...!

वेळ असायची काम चालू करायची. -

SHILPASAGAR |2011

lk;yh pkS/kjh

आ†ण भुवया उं चाव या ! जगाCया सफर चं माझं पाAहलं पाऊल पडलं ते

हा दोन तासांचा नयनरRय अवाकपणा संपला

चायना म•ये. पढ ु ची पाऊल एका नंतर एक पडणार

आ†ण आRह श0जनला पोहोचलो आ†ण मग आमCया

न~हती पण आय“ु यात कधीनाकधी पडतीलच याची

सफर वर Pनघालो....

अशा आहे. असो ...

पाAहलं डे ट नेशन ... शांघाई ! राŠी साधारण

मी चायनाला जाणार ह खबर मा}या ओळखीCया

आठ वाजता पोहोचलो . टॅ Nसीतन ू

लोकांम•ये वाyयासारखी पसरल (कोणी फॉरें न ला

हॉटें लपय{त जाताना जे शांघाईचं tप होतं ना... काय

जाणार असेल तर बातमी पसरायला वेळ लागत नाह !)

सांगू ! " यहाँ तो हर Aदन Aदवाल होती है ! " v‡येक

आ†ण सगŽयांCया भव ु या उं चाव या ! अथात

इमारत टोलेजंग ... v‡येकाला अनोखं लाईAटंग ..

नकाराथ§.. जो भेटायचा तो Rहणायचा "चायनाला

~हे र इJनो~हे ट ~ह ! आप याकडे असतं तसं एका

जाणार ! काय आहे Pतकडे बघŒयासारखं? लोकं

पठडीतलं न~हे . पJ ु हा एकदा भव ु या उं चाव या ! डोळे

अमेjरकेला जातात, यरु ोपला जातात आ†ण

फाडून आRह टॅ Nसीबाहे र बघत राAहलो ! मग एक

तR ु ह चायना ? अजबच आहे !!! "

Aदवस शांघाई Lफरलो . एकदम म त शहर आहे शांघाई

वा त"वकता आRह काह जगावेगळे न~हतो जे चायनाला चाललो होतो. माझे बाबा नोकर PनVम¨ चायनात या श0जन य शहरात असतात.

. उं चच उं च इमारती , सद ंु र लॅ Jड के"पंग. Pतथला एक सबवे तर नद Cया खालन ू जातो! पJ ु हा अवाक ! दस ु रं डे ट नेशन बीिजंग ! Pतथल vVस•द

‡या PनVम¨ाने बाबांना भेटणं होईल आ†ण Lफरणं पण

structures तर भव ु या उं चावणार आहे तच हे

होईल, असा हा ¤लान आखŒयात आला.

सगŽयांना माAहत आहे . ‡याबªल वेगळं सांगायची

ं मब गं ुं ईतन ू उं च भरार घेऊन "वमान हॉगकॉ

गरज नाह . नावं सांगते, तेवढ परु े शी आहे त .

ं ं ू न श0जन अव„या दोन तासांवर ला उतरलं. हॉगकॉ गह

ं Nयब «ेट वॉल ऑफ चायना, बडस ने ट , वॉटर ू ,

आहे. आRह बाय रोड श0जन ला जायला

CCTV टॉवर , समजलं ना!

ं Pनघालो. हॉगकॉ गं हे बेटाबेटांच शहर आहे (ज ट

Pतसरं डे ट नेशन गई ु ल न. एक छोटसं गाव ...

लाईक मब ुं ई ) जे "वशाल सागर सेतन ूं ी जोडलेलं

Rहटलं तर गाव ... पण आप या इथ या शहराएवढे

ं ॲज सीVलंक इन कोलोकSअल आहे. ( ~हॉटं ~ह कॉल

"वकVसत , तर ह

मराठ& !) हे सागर सेतू पाहून सगŽयांCया भव ु या

PनसगरRय कS पJ ु हा आमCया भव ु या उं चाव या आ†ण

उं चाव या !!! एकामागन ू एक आ†ण एकापेzा एक

दे वाला सलाम ठोकला ! जVमनीवर पज ुं के

सागर सेतू येताच जात होते! चायना कडून असं काह

टाक यासारखे डcगर , वेगवेगŽया , "वgचŠ आकारांचे

... पाणी †झरपन ू आतन ू पाŒयाने कोरले गेलेले ! इथे

वतःचं गावपण जपणारं ! इतकं

एका बोट राइड वर आमCया भव ु या उं चावणारा एक माणस ू भेटला . होता Vसंगापरू चा पण सगŽयांना सांगत

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

सट ु लेला " आय अॅम Wॉम इंrडया !" वेडा nबडा न~हता ...

चीनी लोकांशी संवाद साधायला Vमळाला . कधी

ह वॉज ॲन इंटेVलजंट nबझनेसमन . आमCयाशी खूप

दक ु ानात , कधी सप ु र माक¯ट म•ये , कधी हॉटें ल म•ये

वेळ ग¤पा मारत होता . ‡याने असं का सांgगतलं

...

कोणास ठाऊक ! पण आRहाला मजा वाटल ! या भव ु या उं चावणाyया vदे शात कोणालातर भारतीय ~हावंसं वाटतंय हे काय थोडं आहे ! गई ु ल न जवळCया एक दोन गावांम•येह आRह Lफरलो . इथ या गावातह भव ु या उं चावणारे , सपाट , सद ुं र , अिजबात खoडे नसलेले र ते , अगद एखा¬ा हायवे सारखे ! ह खरच कौतक ु ा पद गो¦ आहे . फोथ डे ट नेशन ... बॅक टू पॅ~ह ल ऑन – श0जन . श0जन ला परतलो ... इथे आठवडाभर मN ु काम होता . इथे एक "वंडो ऑफ द वड Rहणून Aठकाण आहे Pतथे गेलो . जगात या vVस‚ -Nचस Cया vPतकृती इथे आहे त ... अगद हुबेहूब ! यात या आVशया खंडात भारताचा मो’या vमाणात समावेश आहे . हळू हळू आRह एक एक पाहू लागलो . ताज महाल Aदसला ... सांची तप ू Aदसलं आ†ण मग भव ु या उं चाव या ... काल¯

v‡येक वेळेस आदर जाणावला. इतरांCया अ•यात म•यात न येणार पण मदतीला धावन ू जाणार लोकं आहे त . फार कामसू आ†ण जे काम पडेल ते मनापासन ू करणार आहे त . एखा¬ा rastyacha काम जर करायचा असेल तर तीन तासात नवीन र ता तयार होतो. एवढ लोकसं°या असन ू ह -े न बस म•ये ऑ ंLफस टाइम ला स‚ ु ा ~यवि थत चढता येत!ं !! सगŽयात मह‡वाचा "वषय राहूनच गेला! तो Rहणजे " चायनीज फूड " !!! आप याला ऐकून माAहत आहे कS चायनीज लोकं काह ह खातात .... खरय , ॲNचल ु काह ह खातात !!! मासे, gचकन, मटण, कासव, बदक, ससे, साप!! अzरशः काह ह ! Pतथे तर सापाची वईनह Vमळते! पण ते आप या इथ या चायनीज पेzा शतपट ने वेगळं आ†ण चांगलं आहे ! आRह पAह यांदा चायनीज रे टॉरं ट म•ये गेलो ते जरा

लेणी ! काल¯ लेणी जागPतक तरावर एवढ लोक"vय

भीत भीतच पण जे~हा चाखून पाAहलं ते~हा खरच

नाह त . gचJयांचा भारतात या लेŒयाJवरचा सखोल

भव ु या उं चाव या!! खरच खूप लाजवाब होतं ! खूप

अžयास पाहून कौतक ु वाटलं . ह लेणी पाहत असताना आRहा भारतीयांना पाहून काह चीनी आमCयाशी आपणहून बोलायला आले . ‡यांना आमCयाशी खूप बोलायचं होतं ... काह "वचारायचं होतं ... काह सांगायचं होतं ... ‡यांCया बोलŒयातन ू ‡यांना भारतीयांबªल Lकती आ‡मीयता आहे , Lकती आदर

साि‡वक वाटलं! अथात आRह काह ह नह खाऊ शकलो. पण ते खा

यावर इथे Vमळणारं खावसच

वाटत नह हे माŠ नNकS ! असा हा चायना दे श ... भव ु या उं चावणारा ... भरपरू लोकसं°या असन ॓ कtन ू ह ती ~यवि थत मॅनज सगŽयाचा समJवय साधून सख ु ात नांदणारा...

आहे हे जाणवलं . "वशेषतः गौतम ब‚ ु भारतातले अस यामळ ु े जा त आदर . हा आदर आRहाला श0जन

& oS / kgh fojdj

मध या ८ Aदवसात खप ू जाणावला . या ८ Aदवसात खप ू

SHILPASAGAR |2011

SENIOR'S PLOT, WET CLOTH, OH MY GOD! Wee hours of morning, SENIOR’s call, Time to wander across DADAR's ever busy grounds, Thick clouds, rainfalls take reign from the sun Lord, Senior's Plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! Boarding a bus, DADAR's an hour away, A normal 3 hour work and back home, I PRESUMED, But the rains targeted me, and I was caught, I am DOOMED! Senior's Plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! A cell phone to carry, a book to read, And ofcourse, the plot files, in a P.D., SENIOR’s call, PLOTTER's address, and the bus STALLED. That's a NEGATIVE sign. Senior's Plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! Fault WINDOWS, double fault THE BUS ROOF, Game, Set, Match, the rains had already WON, and seeped into! But the plots are yet to be taken, so I moved on, I SNEEZE! Senior's Plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! Shiv SenaBhavan, half a KILOMETRE away from the plotter, Thinking about MONDAY, and forgetting about it! Time to move, request to a guy for a place in his umbrella, HALFWAY through! Senior's Plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! Another request, this time to a SHOPKEEPER, For a plastic, and he lends me HALLS' mint cover, In goes the book, the p.d., but wait, my phones’ OFF! Oh DAMN! Senior's Plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! A request, this time from the PLOTTER herself, For an hour to wait, and to hold myself still,

But I was drenched, and the AC, holding onto a rod, I SHUDDERED! Senior's plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! The plots taken, heaving a sigh of relief, I met my senior at DADAR station, West, As I gave him the plots, my jaw dropped, Forgot the P.D.! Senior's Plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! A visit to the same DEN, one more time, I put the P.D. into the cover, and board a bus. “Kaay chatri nahi ka? Aanghol karun aale aahet,” says the driver, FRUSTRATED now! Senior's plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! I get down at DEONAR; walk into my MOM’s workplace, SBI, DEONAR branch, where's the toilet?! I need to pee! I ask my mom, and run to her given directions, Flat TUMMY! Senior's Plot, Wet Cloth, Oh My God! Another bus, to VASHI, an accident at the VASHI Bridge, MassiveTRAFFIC, an hour to cross the bridge, I walk along the divider, totally exasperated, Jaw DROPPED, mind WASHED, my day is a FLOP! Holding a LADIES umbrella borrowed from my mom, I am almost descending the VASHI Bridge, The bus I had alighted from chases me, OH SHUCKS! Waste of ENERGY! Mind rugged, my day sucks! Finally home, strangely, my phone is working! YIPPIE! I jump, dry myself, set to retire on my bed As one of my friend always says, SMILE ON, And I smile on, about my SENIOR'S PLOT, my WET CLOTH, oh mydear LORD!

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

Rashmil Rajagopalan

- Rohit Walimbe

SHILPASAGAR |2011

F.Y.B.ARCH F.Y.B.Arch., in SIR J.J., nearing an end, Breathing hard, trying to kill the final few days. Bunking lectures, has now become an old TREND, SLOGGING our heart out is now the only way! Why do we students have to work and only work? Why do we students have to breathe so hard? Our designs make us look like a JERK, Why can't our professors compliment us, but just SNARL? PROPITIATIONS no more seem to work, It never worked for Sharman either in 3 idiots. Because everytime, CURSE seems to follow, And MISHAPS too, are our lives only filled with sorrows? FREE HAND- colour this, sketch that, do this and do that, Ever glanced at the attendance sheet? Its FREE hand! COMMUNICATION SKILLS, which never seems to happen, Cause if no one is present, how are the skills to mend? Graphics, workshop, made us WORKaholics and SHOPaholics, WORKING for nights, drafting sheets over sheets, SHOPPING throughout Abdul Rehman, Crawford, Bankrupt, still a list of items to buy which we cannot afford! B.D. - spaces, colours, parts of aesthetics, Means nothing but to work hard, only to get your design KICKED! Sticking, painting, and making spaceoriented models, Similar to sticking our bum to a stick and getting it painted RED!

A.D. - professors not knowing how to go about the subject, Visiting faculty, so true to their tag, they just visit, One of them dragging every statement into ancient HISTORY, And the other comparing every design element with GEOGRAPHY! B.MAT. seems interesting, we being lucky to have a REMINDER, Who always reminds us about every upcoming test, And we students, as always, keeping our virtues at bay, Plead Sir for an OPEN-BOOK test, as the other assignments kill our days! T.O.S. always goes for a toss over our heads, Except for a few nerds who are NOSTALGIC to the subject, But what about those poor commerce students impotent to PHYSICS? Every word to them is alien, and it only makes them SICK. Hold on, we are going to be ARCHITECTS and not any street eccentric, So why get sick, and why get ourselves bruised? We aren't going to be cured, nor are we going to get healed, We'll always have to work like there's no TOMORROW, and not afford to be EXHUASTED! Itsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; just F.Y., there will be a time where things will be so BLOODY, So much so, that even MEN will have no option but to wear pads, But we got to feel the pain, bear the bruises, cause in the end, as all say, ARCHITECTURE is the LAST RESORT, you will earn the RESPECT, and also the PAY!

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

Rashmil Rajagopalan

Rohit Walimbe -

SHILPASAGAR |2011

H EADED SOUTH Rattling noises numbed by the glass, Moving nightfall scenerys outside, Pinching silence piercing through my ears, I’m headed South.

This solitude comforts me, More than the woolen blanket draped around me, The star-less sky so enchanting, I’m headed South.

Heavy post light scattering over the glass, Ruining the sanctity of the dark, Faint voices across the coach, I’m headed South.

They talk of the dead, I feel their angst, but not their voice, A drop of sweat trickles down my spine, I’m headed South.

My wet back doesn’t distract me, And the angst within me subsides, For I’m lost chasing the outside, I’m headed South.

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

Anoop Bhat

RENAISSANCE Morning is here, The sun has dawned... In fiery colours new blood is born... Every place echoes of pain and sadness... Help us God! Get us out of this madness... All this while I just sat back and cribbed. And now they are no more, lost in this bid. Sacrificed them so that I could live. Except for tears and thanks I have nothing to give. The sight of their blood burns me like a fire. I want tpo promise them something as I lighe their pyre. No longer will we sit back and let madmen steal our dignity. We aren’t alone. We’ve regained our unity.

In our own hands, we’ve taken our responsibility. We won’t lie; you can account us for our credibility. Stagnating energy is now being channelized. Actions for a bright future are soon to be finalized. To my kith and kin, those who have died, We’ve shed our tears, we’ve cried. Tiny drops from our heart have now formed a river. Purifying hearts, from lords to misers. Equality shall thrive, long live brotherhood. Freedom shall rule, because revolution is the mood. (Written in memory of those who died in the 26.11.2008 Mumbai Carnage)

-Prerna Damani

SHILPASAGAR |2011

HER DAY BY THE BEACH BYRON BEACH (BYRON BAY AUSTRALIA 12-10--09)

Out of the deep blue On the sea of sand she lay Blurry figurines rejoice in the chalky sea With grainy wind from the bay Alone she basks there With her Walkman singing along Waves kissing her pink toes Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where she wants to belong Rocks and shells seem so familiar As often as leisure brings here here h Away from the daily hustle Here it all seems so clear She takes a break from her music And talks to the sea Whose there only for her it seems And smiles on mysteriously Sea gulls chirp and children laugh As the sun rises high She seems unbothered through all that is around In her own thoughts she glides The cell phone wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cry and no pager will beep As she readies herself for a dip Catching up with the whispering wind she runs Managing a last grapy sip Her long locks dance around Till she hits the coll with force Waves play around her body as They engulf her without remorse!

- Musamma Solkar

Eyes closed with only silence to hear She holds on to her breath Till the powerful tide guides her back To the shore from its depth Moments under the wave And ahey knew she will return, And for that n eternity she has lived Now its time to go back home To the world she has weared The sea kept smiling and the wind in high Though the orange sun has got so low They know she will return, And for that There is not much time to go... g

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

Rohit Walimbe

Pour in your grief gravy, burn safe in my arms, Let me identify, feed you some love, Bite into your miseries, tear them apart, Stab the world in its gut, and pull it to your knees.

Anoop Bhat

SHILPASAGAR |2011

THE MOUSTACHE MAN

Once upon a time, crossing a busy street, A man with a long moustache sat calmly amongst shuffling feet. His beard he untangled, of the world, unaware. But when he removed his turban, on his head he had no hair! As a smiling reply to my curious looks he curled his moustache using his fingers as hooks. Perfectly balanced, the knot sat on his head. On that he placed his turban, a reminder of pride, inbred. Though in the midst of a sea of shuffling feet, This man upheld his dignity... which was a lesson indeed.

-Prerna Damani

100

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

OPEN EYES One eerie night has passed and a bloody day arrives The evil sun peeks from behind the hills of the plain Only but to witness the dance of death below Numb with fear With sweat on his brow Thoughts unsteady Emotions so raw Facing a wall of arms With a few trembling with fear He stands heat for survival And that he holds dear As he clings to his musket’ Even harder than his faith And so the riders to their steed For the change they wait An uncomfortable silence Overcomes the chaos in the ranks Never has there been A greater thirst for blood it seems A cold breeze dances over the grass And the time stops still Was cries awaken the earth Fire of the cannons adrenaline chills Flashes of orange In the smoke filled sky As the green turns red And men around it lie

Get then all….. Forward! The cavaliers charge Muddy hoofs, blood on their steel Over the foe they barge Shooting pellets of bayout sharp He thrusts without fear Forward to take a bullet For those who sent them here He sees him, Not in red uniform like his men But just as red By this time The beast that he has become Growling towards him he leaps Blood gushing through his muscles Passing all those torn bloody heaps Alas metal meets flesh And the foe goes down All but a cry There isn’t a sound With arms wide open He challenges heavens His part has been played And is up for the ravens! Thirsty for more And bashing his short glory He gazes into the eyes of his dying foe Only to witness his own life story.

Rohit Walimbe

SHILPASAGAR |2011

101

gk ekoGrk lw;Z gh izdk'kkph kph var%dkG] i.k ek>~;k eukr vkgs vsd xksM vkBo.khaph ldkG ,d d ?kj dkSykapa] fgjO;k&fioG;k ikukapa ?kj rs ek>~;k vkth&vktksckapa] ek>~;k ckyi.kkapa d/khgh u foljsu eh freyh rh la/;kdkG la/;kdkGP;k Qqykaph rh ldkG rks lw;Z ekoGrhpk rh pkan.;kaph fu'kkdkG fu rqG'khrY;k hrY;k fnO;kpk rks ean izdk'k k ekoGrhpa rs fuGa&tkaHkG vkdk'k ijr.kk&;k i{kkapk rks fpofpokV mxoR;k rk&;kapk rks yqdyqdkV i.k vkrk rksgh >kyk ,d HkwrdkG mjY;kr R;k QDr vkBo.kh eukr R;k gh dqBsrjh eukrY;k mUgkr ---- Lkkssuw cksBs

mM.;kP;k uknkr vki.k dqBsrjh laiar vlrks xkB lksMo.;kP;k uknkr Lor%p xqarr tkr vlrks ftokikM iz;Ru d#ugh ifjfLFkrh vf/kd fcdV gksrs vu lkoj.;k uknkr vf/kdp <klGr vlrks … - vuqtk dsykiqjs

102

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

‘Meghna’ Meghna’ - Stippling by Shrish Jaiswal

Vibha Saraf

ikÅl iMrks >kMs ukprkr

lkpysY;k ik.;kar okVra tsOgk pkyk;pa

dkxnkP;k gksM;k laFk iksgrkr-

pkj fHkarhP;k 'kkGsr

fgjoG Mksyrs] Qqys cgjrkr]

rsOgk vkEgh iqLrd okpk;pa

dq+=~;kaP;k N=~;ka loZ= iljarkr-

ckyi.khps veqY; vk;q";

okVra tsOgk vkbZP;k dqf'kr f'kjk;pa]

vkEgh

vkbZuh rsOgkp eyk ikG.kk?kjkr lksMk;pa]

'kkGsr Dykle/;s

okVra tsOgk

fdaok ikG.kk?kjkr ?kkyok;pa

ikBhoj ckckaP;k ?kksMk ?kksMk djk;pa

'kqHkadjksrh dY;k.ke~

ckackauh useda rsOgkp

vkEgh

b esypa Viky m?kMk;pa

laLdkj oxkZrp f'kdk;pa …

ikolkP;k ljh ---?kjh okVra eLr yksGk;pa vkbZuh ?kkrysY;k Dykle/ks rsOgkp dkWaEI;qVj f'kdk;pa

- foods ckiV ,

okLrqf'kYidkj

SHILPASAGAR |2011

103

104

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

SHILPASAGAR |2011

105

106

2011 | SHILPASAGAR

“GRASP” - SCREEN PRINT BY IRAVATI NATH

STUDENTS COUNCIL 2011 General Secretary

Archives Incharge

Vallabh Viswanathan

Jui Katrekar Shraddha Tambe

Treasurer Sowjanya Harinarayan Pallavi Desai

Website Incharge Akshay Sangle Dnyaneshwari Mete

Cultural Secretary Bhaveshh Tahalramani Gauri Kothavle

Public Relations Incharge Nikita Mhaisekar Nikita Parwekar

Sports Secretary Darshan Gandhe Kevin Mathew

MARATHI WANGMAY MANDAL Head

Exhibitions Incharge

Shankar Sawant

Diksha Rawat

Co-head Apurv Gore

Lecture Series Incharge

Treasurer

Puneet Pagariya Shivangi Tanna

Bhagyashree Baviskar

Sponsorship Incharge

CLASS REPRESENTATIVES

Rika Meshram Jugal Rana

1st Year

Magazine Incharge

Prakriti Saxena Ajitsinh Jadeja

Hemangi Kadu Prerna Damani

2nd Year

Posters and Brochure designers

Pallavi Desai Arka Banerjee

Mahek Chheda Gauri Malur

3rd Year

Bulletin Incharge

Tejashree Mane Ashray Ganguly

Ashwini Shinde Akshaya Kudale

4th Year Shruti Poojari Vishal Pawar

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MAGAZINE MEMBERS

Hemangi Kadu Prerna Damani Anoop Bhat Iravati Nath Mithilesh Jadhav Kalpesh Mahajan Anna Rose Sneha Ranaware Shruti Morye

Anushree Patil Arka Banerjee Rashmil Rajagopalan Nupur Soni Bhagyashree Baviskar Dnyaneshwari Mete Vallabh Viswanathan Yogesh Pawar

Cover Page by Hemangi Kadu Logo Design by Anoop Bhat Caricatures by Rohit Walimbe JJustice League Caricature by Anoop Bhat Special Thanks to, Prof. Mustansir Dalvi and Prof. Yashwant Pitkar for their constant motivation, Ar. Ruchita Jagzap for her unwavering support, And all other people for showing some love, without whom Shilpasagar 2011 magazine would have remained just another dream.

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DOLPHIN ENTERPRISES BUILDERS & DEVELOPERS

H- 102, 1st Floor, Nerul Station Complex, Nerul (W), Navi Mumbai. Tel: 022-2299 0924 Vax: 022-2771 7145 E-mail: dolphin_d@yahoo.com dolphinsraj@hotmail.com

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FORM IV Place of Publication: Sir J. J. College of Architecture, 78/3 D. N. Road, Mumbai – 400001, India. Periodicity of Publication: Annual Printer’s name and citizenship: Vibha Offset Printers (Indian), A-35, Royal Industrial Estate, Naigaum Cross Road, Wadala, Mumbai - 400031

Editor’s name and citizenship: Hemangi G. Kadu (Indian) Owner of Publication: Student’s Council, Sir J. J. College of Architecture, 78/3 D. N. Road, Mumbai – 400001 I, Principal Rajiv Mishra hereby declare that the particulars given above are true to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Publisher’s name and citizenship: Principal Rajiv Mishra (Indian), Sir J. J. College of Architecture, 78/3 D.N. Road, Mumbai – 01 Principal

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