Ahmedabad has paid tribute to the legendary architect Balkrishna Vithaldas Doshi by renaming a prominent city road after him. The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) officially designated the stretch from SAL Crossroads to Himalaya Mall in Thaltej as “Architect Balkrishna Doshi Marg”. The dedication ceremony was attended by City Mayor, AMC standing committee chairman, and members of Mr Doshi’s family.
Fondly known as “Doshi Saheb,” the first Indian architect to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize left an indelible mark on Ahmedabad’s urban landscape. His visionary designs shaped iconic institutions like CEPT University and Amdavad ni Gufa, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a hub of architectural excellence. Recently, Kanoria Arts Centre also dedicated its chowk in memory of Doshi.
The choice of location for the newly named road holds deep personal significance for Doshi’s family and admirers. It runs right in front of Sangath, Doshi’s renowned architectural studio, where many of his groundbreaking ideas took shape.
Khushnu Panthaky Hoof, Doshi’s granddaughter, expressed the family’s gratitude, highlighting that this tribute ensures future generations will remember his contributions. “After his death, we always discussed ways to keep his memory alive in the city, he has given so much to—be it the kind of institutes he has built and the kind of work he has done from the city. We didn’t know what it should be to commemorate his life and contribution to the city and in the field of architecture but naming a road after him, especially as Architect Balkrishna Doshi is a fitting tribute. His memories will be alive and coming generation will remember and know him via this plaque,” she was quorted saying.
With this gesture, Ahmedabad acknowledges the profound influence of Balkrishna Doshi, ensuring his name and legacy continue to inspire architects and urban planners for generations to come.