Parul Institute of Architecture and Research Marks World Architecture Day with AURA Awards
The Parul Institute of Architecture and Research (PIAR), part of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning at Parul University, celebrated World Architecture Day with a vibrant and insightful event that included design talks, student exhibitions, and the prestigious AURA Awards.
The ceremony began with Prof. Dr. Bhagyajit Raval who is Dean of the Faculty speaking about the importance of World Architecture Day in building a strong and creative design community. Prof. Jignesh Vyas delivered the welcome address, followed by a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony led by guest speakers and senior faculty members.
The celebration featured two major segments. Design Dialogues and an Academic Exhibition leading up to the AURA (Awards for Unique Rigour in Architecture) Awards Ceremony.
During the Design Dialogues, some of the leading architects such as Gurjit Singh Matharoo (Matharoo Associates), Mona Doctor Pingel (Studio Naqshbandi) and Gajanand Ram (Vice President, Council of Architecture) shared their thoughts on innovation and evolving trends in architecture. Their talks gave valuable insights to students, faculty and professionals who were present in the ceremony.
This was followed by a guided tour of the Academic Exhibition, where PIAR students displayed their creative and technical work. The exhibition reflected the institute’s focus on nurturing design thinking and practical skills.
The highlight of the day was the AURA Awards Ceremony which awarded exceptional work in architecture across categories such as:
- Best Architectural Thesis
- Architectural Photography
- Innovative Practice
- Architectural Models
- Documentation
- Creative Reels
- Formative Projects
- Architectural Writing
- Pedagogical Innovation
Winners were chosen by a respected panel of experts from the architecture industry. After participants revieved their awards, they presented their projectswhich gave the audience a closer look at their design ideas and creative approach.
The AURA Awards had INR 2.5 Lakhs as total prize money. It drew participation from students and professionals across Vadodara and nearby architecture colleges. The event brought together the young talent and their exceptional architectural work from across the country.
PIAR’s commitment to quality architectural education and its efforts to nurture the next generation of architects and creative thinkers was highlited through AURA Awards.
