Hear me out; I have few observations to share.
Today everyone seems to have a facade with more focus on short-term goals with no consciousness towards other people and the environment. With narrow vision and confined priorities, we are playing it safe in society to run from discourse. The Discourse of what kind you may ask- “if it ain't broke, why does it need fixing?” This thought needs to change! No better example than the pandemic itself which is the most synchronized call for change. Some of us are changing, some of us want to we just lack a means.
As architects, we have abilities as solvers. . We have the cap potential to behave and act whilst there may be an emergency. However, hum haath me haath dharein baithe hai! We need to join our hands amidst various other sectors that are already doing great work in uplifting communities and the environment. Yaad hai, during our architecture schooling, we were taught we are change-makers and we have a very important role in the society? Kya hua, tera vada?
In recent times, there is a growing imbalance in terms of discharging our service and duties. Market-driven commercialisation strategies have led to fast paced design solutions and in this process, we are not inclusive with mainstream economy using strategic variables.
For instance, there have been crazy proposals like in order to reduce the spread of coronavirus, slum settlements were going to be eradicated from the cities. Why do we still misinterpret slum settlements as not part of cities? Also, how could this be a solution? We need a holistic approach to any design problem and cutting leaves of weeds does not eliminate problems. This is the equivalent of working on building designs using green rating treatments without considering the fundamentals of eco friendly design. These half baked solutions are creating a divide in the society and making this industry even more exclusive day by day.
At a time when most publications do not want to acknowledge this part of reality, we will try to level these unjust scenarios by working towards it. On this front, we need to broaden our mindsets. We have to think outside of our own benefits and be inclusive towards people, animals and the environment.
It starts by being mindful right from the first line that we draw on our drawing paper. Conscious attempts will lead to fruitful results, when enforced consistently. The balance will only be created when everyone decides to think beyond the boundaries and facades that we have created. This became our mission to call for change and be of great help through our technical, analytical and creative skills, which are necessary architectural skills needed to improve society and communities across India.
Through this platform, we will advocate as a voice for change.
We will call for change.
We will address the problems and support existing organisations that will benefit less privileged and vulnerable sections of society.
We will strive towards providing affordable environmentally friendly solutions.
We will provide our expertise, knowledge and information in the fields that need attention.
We will assist to empower people.
Think big!
This is What Makes us Levellers.