Did Jamia Millia Faculty and Scholar Achieve a US Award for Researching Indian Knowledge Systems?
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Synopsis
A groundbreaking achievement by Jamia Millia faculty and scholar highlights the incredible influence of Indian traditional knowledge in architecture, winning a prestigious US award. This recognition showcases India's architectural heritage and the contributions of Indian-origin architects during colonial times.
Key Takeaways
- Significant achievement for Jamia Millia Islamia faculty and scholars.
- Research highlights the role of Indian traditional knowledge in architecture.
- Awards promote recognition of Indian-origin architects during colonial times.
- Research enhances understanding of lost Indian Knowledge Systems.
- First Indian researchers to win the Constructed Environment International Award.
New Delhi, June 2 (NationPress) A distinguished research team, consisting of faculty members and a Ph.D. scholar from Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), has garnered the esteemed Constructed Environment International Award for Excellence from the Common Ground Research Networks in the United States, an official announcement confirmed on Monday.
The JMI representative noted that this annual global recognition honors exceptional research publications within the realm of constructed environments.
The study, led by Ripu Daman Singh, a Ph.D. candidate under the guidance of Prof. Nisar Khan and Prof. Hina Zia from the Department of Architecture, analyzed the proportioning system utilized in the architectural design of the renowned Khalsa College located in Amritsar, as stated by JMI.
“Through extensive primary research and architectural documentation, the findings elucidated that the proportions integrated into the building's design were influenced by traditional Indian carpentry, rather than Western standards,” the statement elaborated.
The research has been lauded for emphasizing the role of Bhai Ram Singh, an Indian-origin carpenter-turned-architect who gained prominence during British rule, showcasing his exceptional traditional Indian knowledge and skills at a time when European architects dominated the field.
The research highlighted that Bhai Ram Singh was not only an accomplished architect but also versatile in interiors, furniture design, hardware, and signage.
“Bhai Ram Singh was one of the few Indian-origin architects during the British era who received invitations to design projects in the United Kingdom,” the statement remarked.
This research team's contributions significantly enhance the understanding of lost Indian Knowledge Systems utilized in architecture, while also reshaping the narrative regarding the impact of Indian-origin architects during colonial times, as asserted by the university.
This award stands as a testament to the team's commitment to uncovering India's architectural heritage and underscoring the importance of Indian Knowledge Systems in shaping constructed environments, according to the JMI statement.
The prestigious award is part of Common Ground Research Networks' initiative to foster innovative research and knowledge sharing in the sector. Remarkably, this marks the first occasion that Indian researchers have received this award in its 15-year history, as noted by Saima Saeed, Chief Public Relations Officer at JMI.
Point of View
This achievement underscores the vital role of Indian scholars in reviving and promoting traditional knowledge systems. It is essential for India to recognize and celebrate its rich architectural heritage, especially in the context of colonial history. The award not only honors the research team's efforts but also invites a broader discussion about the contributions of Indian architects in a global context.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Constructed Environment International Award for Excellence?
It is an annual global award recognizing exceptional research publications in the field of constructed environments, awarded by the Common Ground Research Networks.
Who were the key contributors to the award-winning research?
The research was led by Ripu Daman Singh, a Ph.D. scholar, under the supervision of Professors Nisar Khan and Hina Zia from the Department of Architecture at JMI.
What was the focus of the research conducted by the JMI team?
The research focused on the proportioning system used in the design of Khalsa College in Amritsar and its roots in Indian traditional carpentry.
Why is Bhai Ram Singh significant in this research?
Bhai Ram Singh was a prominent Indian-origin architect during British rule, known for his expertise in traditional Indian knowledge and skills in architecture.
What does this award signify for Indian researchers?
This award is significant as it marks the first time Indian researchers have achieved this recognition in the award's 15-year history, highlighting India's contributions to global architectural discourse.
