Shillong: The 35th edition of the JK Architect of the Year (AYA) Awards culminated in a grand winners’ announcement ceremony held at Windermere in Shillong on March 14, bringing together some of the most accomplished architects and emerging talents from India and abroad.
Organised by JK Cement Ltd., the event marked over three decades of recognising excellence, innovation, and sustainability in architecture.
The two-day programme also featured an exhibition of architectural entries, attracting students from various architecture colleges and offering them exposure to cutting-edge designs and evolving concepts shaping the future of the built environment.
Leading architects from India and several other countries formed the jury panel, evaluating submissions across multiple categories to identify the most deserving projects and professionals.
Speaking on the occasion, Rana Pratap Singh, administrator of the awards, said the ceremony reflects the organisation’s continued commitment to promoting architectural excellence and fostering innovation in the field.
Architect Aiban S Mawkhroh, who also served as a professional advisor, said the event and exhibition were highly informative for students and would significantly benefit them in their academic and professional journeys.
Renowned architect Rajeev Kathpalia, who attended as a guest and juror, underscored the importance of sustainable and environmentally sensitive architecture. Referring to the Northeast’s rich natural landscape, he emphasised that development in Meghalaya should remain in harmony with nature.
“Lest there comes a day when large cement structures disturb the natural beauty that defines the culture and uniqueness of this region,” Kathpalia said. Kathpalia is also known for designing the Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum in Bhuj.
Among the major award winners, the Green Architecture Award was conferred on Ar. Deepak Guggari of Pune for The Street, Pune. In the Indian Architecture Awards (IAA) commendation category, Ar. Sunanda A. J. Radhakrishnan of Bengaluru was recognised for Toit, Bengaluru under Hospitality Buildings, while Ar. Praveen Bayadekar of Belgaum received the award for Figured Ground – University Sports Arena, Hubli in the Public Building category. Ar. Avinash Ankalage of Bengaluru was honoured for Stepped Well House, Bengaluru under Private Residence.
The Young Architect Award went to Ar. Chaitanya Patel of Ahmedabad for A Modest House in ‘POI’ Neighbourhood, Ahmedabad, while Ar. R. Lalrinzuala of Aizawl was named Architect of the Year for the School of Architecture, Mizoram University.
Under the Indian State Architecture Awards (ISAA), Ar. Vivek Singh Rathore of Kolkata received the State Architect of the Year award for ITC Storii Devasom, Kolkata, while Ar. Milon Dutta of Birbhum was given the State Commendation Award for Tokaroun Artist Residence, Santiniketan.
In the Foreign Countries’ Architecture Awards (FCAA), Ar. Md. Ishtiaque Zahir and Ar. Md. Iqbal Habib of Dhaka were named Architects of the Year for Zimkhana Sheikh Rasel Park and Baburail Canal Restoration, Narayanganj. Mahmudul Anwar Riyaad of Dhaka received the Commendation Award for Nooruddin Complex, Narayanganj, while the Young Architect Award went to Mickdady Mchau of Dar es Salaam for the Visitors Information Centre, Tanzania.
The awards ceremony brought together architects, construction industry leaders, government representatives, and students, reinforcing its stature as one of the most respected architectural platforms in the region. By honouring visionary professionals and pathbreaking designs, the event continues to inspire the next generation of architects while promoting sustainable and innovative practices in the built environment.