Architecture and Independence: The Search for Identity-India 1880 to 1980

Bhavin Shukla engages in a discussion with Prof. Miki Desai and Prof. Madhavi Desai about their book, 'Architecture and Independence: The Search for Identity – India 1880 to 1980', which was released in its second edition by the CEPT University Press in 2022. The book written by Miki Desai, Madhavi Desai and Jon Lang explores how Indian architecture has evolved over the past century, reflecting the spirit of its times, particularly during the fight for Independence. It delves into how architectural styles and designs have changed in response to political shifts in India and globally since the establishment of the Indian National Congress. Jon Lang is an emeritus professor at The University of South Wales where he headed the School of Architecture and taught in the Masters of Urban Development and Design Program (MUDD). He was director for urban design of ERG/Environmental Research Group Inc. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He directed the joint MArch/MCP program in urban design there before settling in Australia. He has authored and co-authored numerous books on urban design, architectural theory and modern architecture in India. Miki Desai retired as a professor from the Faculty of Architecture, CEPT University, Ahmedabad after teaching there from 1981 to 2014. He has authored and co-authored books and held national and international exhibitions, based on his extensive research as well as drawing and photo-documentation, especially from his study of the vernacular, colonial and modern architecture of India. His books include Wooden Architecture of Kerala (2008), Architecture and Independence: The Search for Identity: India 1880 to 1980 (co-authored with Jon Lang, Madhavi Desai, 2022) and numerous other notable works. Madhavi Desai is an independent researcher, teacher and writer. She was an adjunct member of the Faculty of Architecture, CEPT University, Ahmedabad. She has authored, co-authored and edited several books on Indian architecture, especially with a focus on gender and built environment.