What are some famous architects from modern India?
From NCERTAsked by Anonymous from Dallas, United States23 Oct 2026, 3:07 PM ISTUpdated
In one line
Some famous architects from modern India are people who design special buildings using both Indian traditions and new ideas.
B. V. Doshi — Indian architect (1927–2023) B.V. Doshi, a famous Indian architect who designed IIM Bangalore. Image: WikipediaJawahar Kala Kendra — Building in Jaipur, India Jawahar Kala Kendra in Jaipur, designed by Charles Correa. Image: Wikipedia
The rule
Famous Indian architects are individuals who have designed important buildings and structures in India. They blend traditional styles with modern techniques to create unique architectural works.
(Source: NCERT, Class 4)
Let's understand it simply
Imagine you want to build a house. You want it to look nice, be strong, and maybe remind you of your family’s old home in the village. An architect is the person who plans how the house will look and stand. In India, some architects are famous because they designed big, beautiful places like colleges, museums, and even whole cities.
How it works
Architects study what people need in a building (like classrooms, homes, or offices).
They draw plans and models to show how the building will look.
They mix old Indian styles (like arches or courtyards) with new ideas (like glass walls or eco-friendly roofs).
They work with engineers and builders to make sure the building is safe and strong.
The final building often becomes a famous place people visit or use every day.
The story behind it
After India became independent in 1947, there was a need for new cities, schools, and public buildings. Indian architects wanted to show the world that India could create modern, beautiful places while keeping its own culture. Some even worked with famous foreign architects and then made their own mark.
Where you see it in real life
B.V. Doshi: Designed the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore (IIMB) — famous for its peaceful, green campus.
Charles Correa: Designed Jawahar Kala Kendra in Jaipur — a centre for art and culture, mixing old and new styles.
Raj Rewal: Designed the Hall of Nations in Delhi — known for its bold, modern look.
Hafeez Contractor: Designed many tall buildings in Mumbai — like the Imperial Towers.
Brinda Somaya: Restored old buildings and designed new schools, keeping Indian traditions alive.
Laurie Baker: Known for low-cost, eco-friendly homes in Kerala, using local bricks and simple designs.
Why it matters
These architects help shape how Indian cities and towns look.
Their work mixes Indian culture with new technology.
They create places where people learn, work, and live.
Their buildings inspire new architects and students.
Common mistakes
Thinking only old buildings are important — modern buildings can be famous too.
Mixing up architects with builders — architects design, builders construct.
Forgetting that some architects are women, like Brinda Somaya.
Remember it
Famous Indian architects design buildings that mix tradition with modern ideas — look for their work in schools, cities, and public places.
Check yourself
Who designed the Indian Institute of Management in Bangalore?
B.V. Doshi, known for eco-friendly designs.
Why are architects important for a country?
They shape how cities look and create useful, beautiful spaces.
Name one woman architect from modern India.
Brinda Somaya, known for restoring old buildings and designing schools.
What is the main job of an architect?
To plan and design buildings, not to build them physically.
Quick recap
Famous Indian architects blend tradition and modern ideas.
B.V. Doshi, Charles Correa, and Raj Rewal are well-known names.
Their buildings include colleges, art centres, and city landmarks.
Architects design — they do not build with their own hands.
Modern Indian architecture is seen in many public places.
