The Parul Institute of Architecture and Research (PIAR), Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Parul University, organized an event for World Architecture Day, showcasing the best of architectural practice through conceptual conversations, creativity-related exhibitions, and also the AURA Awards Ceremony.
The event was launched with a motivating introduction by Prof. Dr. Bhagyajit Raval, Dean - Faculty of Architecture and Planning, who described World Architecture Day as a chance to create a creative architectural community. He then handed over to the welcome address by Prof. Jignesh Vyas, starting the day's events filled with conversations and celebrations, together with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the invited speakers and senior faculty.
The celebration was composed by two segments, Design Dialogues and Academic Exhibition, with the final part being presented as the AURA (the Awards for Unique Rigour in Architecture) Awards Ceremony. The Design Dialogues stage consisted of engaging conversations with leading architects, including Ar. Gurjit Singh Matharoo, Principal from Matharoo Associates, Ar. Mona Doctor Pingel, Studio Naqshbandi founder and Ar. Gajanand Ram, Vice president of Council of Architecture. The speakers each offered a different awareness of architecture and design innovation in the present context of the world, engaging the audience of students, faculty, and practitioners.
Following the dialogues, attendees enjoyed a guided tour of the Academic Exhibition, where PIAR students showcased exceptional work. The exhibition highlighted the rigorous academic training and practical skills developed at PIAR, emphasizing the institute's commitment to fostering creativity and innovation.
The highlight of the event was the AURA Awards Ceremony, which honored excellence in architecture across various categories, including Distinctive Architectural Thesis, Immersive Architectural Photography, Progressive Architectural Practice, Expressive Architectural Models, Impressive Architectural Documentation, Creative Architectural Reels, Formative Architectural Projects, Perceptive Architectural Writing, and Innovative Architectural Pedagogy. A distinguished panel of jurors, comprising renowned professionals from the architectural field, rigorously assessed the entries. PIAR expresses heartfelt gratitude to these jurors for their invaluable contributions, reinforcing the institute's status as a premier institution in architectural education.
Following the award distribution, the AURA Awardees presented their winning projects, offering deeper insights into their design processes. These presentations highlighted the creativity and rigor defining architectural practice and academia.
The event attracted notable architects from Vadodara and students from architecture colleges across the region, showcasing widespread interest in the celebration. With approximately Rs. 2.50 Lakhs in cash prizes awarded, the AURA Awards recognized excellence in architectural endeavors and provided PIAR students with a platform to engage with outstanding projects across the country.
The celebration of World Architecture Day at PIAR was a resounding success, highlighting the institute's commitment to architectural excellence and innovation. The day reinforced PIAR's dedication to shaping the next generation of architects and laid the groundwork for future inspiring events.
