The Architecture of Shivdatt Sharma

Contents: Foreword/Balkrishna V. Doshi. The crucible of modernism in India. Conversation with Shivdatt Sharma. Lasting lessons from legends-a testament/Shivdatt Sharma. 1. Department of architecture, Chandigarh. 2. Department of space. 3. Private practise. Chronology of selected works. Biography.

Shivdatt Sharma (b. 1931) is one of the most prolific Indian modernist architects. Starting out as an architect in the Chandigarh Capital Project Team led by Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret, Sharma subsequently became Chief Architect of the Indian Space Research Organization. He then went into private practice.

Sharma\'s architecture is a distinct blend of the core principles of modernism, interpreted through the lens of contemporary Indian realities. Modernism was adopted as both symbol and instrument of nation building in Nehruvian India. Working alongside designers and artists, architects went to work building innumerable small townships, universities, public institutions, housing estates and infrastructural projects across the country. Progressive businesses also patronized modernism as full participants in the project of nation-building.

The modernism in India series documents the extensive heritage of modernism and modern architecture in India. Bringing to light the work of a forgotten generation, this series documents work that is currently under threat by the forces of globalization. This well illustrated book documents Sharma\'s work from the early days, when it was a part of the experimental and innovative ethos of Chandigarh, to the present. He has designed for a range of public and private clients across the world. Along with a portfolio of selected works, this book includes critical essays, interviews and a chronology of projects. (jacket)