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Code: WH_OH_021_AUD_S5(C1)

Beginnings of Abhikram and conservation practice

Summary:

Talking about significant projects and the approach and overview of Abhikram, Parul speaks of the journey of how their practice began. She talks about the primary projects she had to manage with colleagues who had come from the US, while her husband was battling with jaundice. Engaged with Riyadh’s government bodies, the project was exceedingly time-bound. She describes the entire project timeline, which went on for months and was very challenging and mentally and financially draining. At the same time, she notes how it was a turning point in their lives. The work they did at that time became the foundation for their future practice, and formed the integral values and approach of their work. Parul further shares details of future projects, her experience working on housing projects, on hotel company projects, and finally their work and efforts in conservation. Talking about the same, she details their experience working on two Haveli projects, the challenges they faced on renovating them, working with local craftspersons and contractors, and learning on the job. She also notes the architectural discoveries they made in these structures and how fascinating the process was. They went on to work on the conservation policies for Udaipur as well and she describes that journey as well. While working on these projects, she again learned a great deal about the traditional systems of building and construction which had survived over the years, and comments on the colonial indoctrination that went against our traditional heritage systems. After discussing further projects and details, she concludes by sharing details of their work in Udaipur.    

Practitioner:

Parul Zaveri

Interviewee:

Parul Zaveri

Interviewer:

Ishita Shah

Duration:

00.44.28

Mode:

Online

Date:

02/05/2022

Language:
English

Highlights:
(00:00:50:21) Overview of projects done by Abhikram, (00:03:36:28) Challenges faced in Saudi Arabia projects by Abhikram, (00:19:30:21) 1985 Ahmedabad Riots, (00:26:46:15) Lake Haveli design process, (00:31:19:28) Developing conservation policies for Udaipur