Renowned architect and urban planner BV Doshi, who worked with who worked with international legends like Le Corbusier and Louis Kahn in prestigious projects, passed away at the age of 95 on January 24, 2023.
From India, Doshi was the first architect to be awarded the Pritzker Prize. He was also awarded the Royal Institute of British Architects’ Royal Gold Medal in 2022. Earlier, he was also honoured with Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri by the government of India.
Also Read | BV Doshi 1927-2023: A tribute to the pioneer of Indian modernist architecture
“We are deeply saddened to inform you about the passing away of Balkrishna Doshi (August 26, 1927-January 24, 2023), loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather,” his family said in a statement.
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“A master wielder of form and light, Doshi has left an indelible legacy. A loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and a true inspiration to the people of this country,” Architecture Digest India poster on social media briefly after the news of Mr Doshi’s death became known.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his tributes called the noted architect as a “remarkable institution builder.”
“Dr BV Doshi Ji was a brilliant architect and a remarkable institution builder. The coming generations will get glimpses of his greatness by admiring his rich work across India. His passing away is saddening. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” the PM posted his tribute on Twitter.
As per the details, Mr Doshi after completing his studies at Sir JJ School of Architecture in Mumbai, moved to London where he worked under Le Corbusier for four years.
He also worked at Corbusier’s studio in Paris in France. He regarded Corbusier as his guru.
Subsequently, on returning to India, he, he oversaw and supervised Corbusier’s projects like Villa Sarabhai, a private residential house of Sarabhai family in Ahmedabad.
He worked with some prestigious iconic building projects which richly reflect his skills as an architect. Some important projects showcasing his legacy include
IIM in Bengaluru and Udaipur, the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Delhi, along with the Amdavad ni Gufa underground gallery, the Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT), Tagore Memorial Hall, Institute of Indology and Premabhai Hall, and the private residence Kamala House - all in Ahmedabad.
He was the first Founder-Director of School of Architecture and School of Planning, Ahmedabad. He also built a low cost housing project in Indore that won awards and acclaim.
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