New Delhi: The architecture fraternity gathered in New Delhi to celebrate the launch of “Innovative Architecture Through the Ages”, a remarkable new publication by Professor Ram Sharma, one of India’s most distinguished architects and educators. The book, edited by Prof. Malay Chatterjee and Meera Chatterjee, has been published by LA Journal, which has been a respected platform for architectural discourse since 2001.
The event was graced by eminent architects Professor Raj Rewal, Professor K.T. Ravindran, Professor Ashok Lal, and Dr. Priyaleen Singh, who shared their reflections on the book and the visionary behind it.
A Journey Through Time and Innovation
In his address, Professor Ram Sharma shared that the book is not just a chronological record of architecture, but a visual and intellectual journey tracing humankind’s evolving creative spirit — from the rock-cut caves and pyramids of ancient civilizations to the soaring structures of the modern era.
“I wanted to capture how innovation, not imitation, defines the progress of architecture,” said Professor Sharma. “From the stone of Ajanta to the steel and glass of New York, each form is a response to time, place, and imagination.”
The richly illustrated book presents more than 30 years of Professor Sharma’s personal exploration of world architecture — including his photographs, concise analyses, and reflections on key architectural milestones. It celebrates innovation as the bridge between tradition and modernity.
An Architect-Scholar’s Perspective
The book was introduced as a “travelogue of ideas”, blending global architectural evolution with Indian ingenuity. As editors, Prof. Malay Chatterjee and Meera Chatterjee brought together Prof. Sharma’s lifetime of experience and scholarship with precision and clarity.
Meera Chatterjee described the project as an “epiphany,” stating,
“Who knew that modern architecture could give you as much of a thrill as the Pyramids of Giza or the temple towns of Mahabalipuram?”
Prof. Malay Chatterjee, himself an architect and writer, highlighted how the LA Journal has consistently provided a clean, independent space for architectural reflection — bridging academia, practice, and culture.
Reflections by Eminent Architects
Professor Raj Rewal, who officially released the book, praised Prof. Sharma for his lifelong contribution to architecture and education:
“Ram Sharma has always been an architect of clarity, humanity, and deep conviction. His work and writings remind us that innovation is not about novelty—it’s about meaning.”
Professor K.T. Ravindran elaborated that the book goes beyond history:
“It’s not about chronology—it’s about the leap of imagination. Innovation, as Sharma presents it, is the act of crossing boundaries between the known and the possible.”
Professor Ashok Lal called the book a “tribute to a generation that shaped post-independence Indian modernism.” He emphasized how the Department of Architecture at Delhi Polytechnic (now SPA Delhi) created a generation of architects who redefined India’s architectural landscape.
“This book,” he said, “is both a classroom and a mirror—every architecture student can learn how ideas evolve, transform, and endure.”
Dr. Priyaleen Singh, heritage conservationist, offered a moving reflection:
“This book teaches us that history is not about dates, but ideas. Innovation lies in addressing the challenges of each era while learning from what came before. Prof. Sharma reminds us that conservation and innovation are two sides of the same architectural truth.”
A Life in Architecture
Born in 1934, Professor Ram Sharma is celebrated for his contributions to architecture, landscape design, and urban planning in India. His projects, such as the Museum of Man in Bhopal, exemplify his belief in architecture as both art and social responsibility.
With over five decades of teaching at the School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, Prof. Sharma has mentored generations of architects, emphasizing contextual design and environmental harmony. His work and teachings continue to shape India’s architectural thought.
Elegantly Produced and Visually Rich
The book, published by LA Journal, has been widely praised for its elegant layout, high-resolution images, and refined graphic design. The editors and publishers were commended for bringing out a volume that is both intellectually stimulating and visually engaging.
As Dr. Singh summed up beautifully,
“Holding this book is a sensory experience—it carries weight, warmth, and wisdom. It’s a chronicle of evolving ideas, a reminder that architecture lives as long as it inspires.”
About the Publisher
LA Journal, established in 2001, has published over 80 issues featuring leading architects, scholars, and urbanists. Its dedication to quality and independence has earned it a unique place in Indian architectural publishing.
Book Information
- Title: Innovative Architecture Through Ages
- Author: Prof. Ram Sharma
- Editors: Prof. Malay Chatterjee and Meera Chatterjee
- Publisher: LA Journal
- Released by: Prof. Raj Rewal
- Occasion: Prof. Ram Sharma’s 91st Birthday Celebration
- Venue: New Delhi
- Year: 2025