Bhopal: Students of Bachelor of Architecture, School of Environmental Design and Architecture, Navrachana University, have won the Prestigious National Award (First Prize) for “Excellence in Documentation of Architectural Heritage 2023”. The winning entry titled “’Uru’ Wooden Boat Making Craft of Kerala”, guided by Prof. Manali Bhadra, eloquently highlighted the profound history and exquisite craftsmanship embodied in these maritime vessels.
The traditional craft of Uru wooden boats has been practiced in the town of Beypore, Kozhikode, Kerala, since many centuries. The craft is an example of the legacy and ingenuity of the Indian craftsmen, which at risk of beinglost due to a declining interest among descendants to preserve it. Hence, it was felt essential to document this craft,not only as a reminder of the past but also as a guide for upcoming generations.
Their entry competed with more than 100 such entries from Architecture colleges across India. The eminent jury included Divay Gupta, Cultural Heritage Specialist and Conservation Architect; Ashish V. Trambadia , Director&CEO Ahmedabad World Heritage City Trust; and,Prof. Kiran Joshi, Conservation architect and author. The jury was highly appreciative of the detailed model of the Boat made by students, which demonstrated the intricate and complex structure of the vessel. The model and the drawings were exhibited in the “India Art, Architecture and Design Biennale, 2023 (IAADB)”, organized by the Union Culture Ministry from December 9-15, inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
