The programme was presided over by Dr. P. Shyama Raju, Chancellor of REVA University, with Ar. Vinu Daniel, Founder of Wallmakers, attending as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. P. Shyama Raju highlighted the importance of Vidya, Vaidya and Vyavasaya, representing education, healthcare and enterprise, in driving a nation's progress. He observed that rapid urbanisation and the declining availability of agricultural land had further increased the importance of education and healthcare in contemporary society.
Referring to REVA University's philosophy of Educate to Enterprise, he urged architecture students to cultivate an enterprising mindset and graduate with a clear vision for their professional careers. He emphasised the need for students to become industry-ready, develop professional confidence and acquire the capabilities required to establish their own firms or ventures.
Dr. Shyama Raju also addressed the changing landscape of architectural practice amid the growing influence of artificial intelligence. He underscored the continuing importance of sketching, design thinking and practical learning, encouraging students to embrace hands-on, project-based and self-directed learning. He noted that developing individual design sensibilities would remain essential to their growth as architects.
The inaugural session featured an interactive address by Ar. Vinu Daniel, Founder of Wallmakers, who shared insights into his work in sustainable architecture and his experience of creating environmentally conscious buildings across the world. Discussing the relationship between architectural education and traditional construction practices, he highlighted the enduring relevance of practical skills such as carpentry and masonry.
Drawing on his early professional journey, Ar. Daniel explained how working at construction sites and participating directly in the building process shaped his approach to architecture. Recalling an incident in which a mason questioned his ability to carry bricks and cement bags, he said the experience challenged his assumptions and motivated him to acquire practical knowledge beyond conventional academic boundaries.
He stressed that architects must develop a deeper understanding of building materials, construction techniques and on-site realities, describing these as essential elements of professional architectural practice.
Ar. Daniel also shared his experience of attending a TED Talk event in Vancouver, Canada, where he met Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI. Reflecting on the future of architecture in the age of artificial intelligence, he reiterated the importance of fieldwork and the hands-on nature of the profession.
As part of the World Architecture Day celebrations, REVA University's School of Architecture organised a hands-on puppet-making workshop and a demonstration of Tholu Bommalata, the traditional leather shadow puppetry of Andhra Pradesh. The activities gave students an opportunity to explore the connections between craftsmanship, cultural heritage, visual storytelling and creative expression.
The Tholu Bommalata presentation was conducted by Shri Kanday Anjanappa, Chief Puppeteer and President and Founder of Jaisree Kala Srushi Society. Known for its large, multicoloured leather puppets, intricate perforations and articulated joints, the traditional art form demonstrated how epic narratives are brought to life through light, shadow, music and storytelling.
The celebrations were attended by Dr. Vimala Swamy, Dean, School of Architecture, and Ar. Sudhir Acharya, Director, School of Architecture, along with faculty members and students.
Through discussions on sustainable construction, practical architectural education and traditional art forms, the event highlighted the importance of combining contemporary design approaches with craftsmanship and cultural knowledge in architectural learning.
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