In a powerful address to the next generation of designers and architects, Zoho Corporation's co-founder and chief scientist, Sridhar Vembu, emphasized the critical need to think beyond one's lifetime and create a sustainable future. He delivered this message as the chief guest at the 7th convocation ceremony of Anant National University (ANU) in Ahmedabad on Saturday.
A Call for Climate-Responsive Architecture
Vembu, who is renowned for taking digital and IT services to rural India instead of major metropolitan hubs, drew a stark contrast between modern construction trends and timeless wisdom. He pointedly criticized the nationwide proliferation of uniform concrete structures, which he argued are fundamentally unsuitable for India's diverse climatic conditions. "All over India, we are building the same concrete structures that we just actually should not be doing," he stated.
He urged the graduating batch of future designers and architects to adhere to their roots and let local climate guide their designs. To illustrate his point, Vembu shared a personal example from his life in Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu. He described his ancestral home, which has stood strong for 250 years, built with mud bricks that provide natural insulation. "I do not use an air-conditioner as the mud bricks provide natural insulation from heat and keep the interiors much cooler," he revealed, presenting a living testament to sustainable, vernacular architecture.
Celebrating Academic Milestones
The convocation marked a significant achievement for 299 students who graduated from a diverse range of programs. The degrees conferred included:
- Bachelor of Design
- Bachelor of Architecture
- Master of Design
- Anant Fellowship in Sustainability and Built Environment
- MSc in Sustainability and Built Environment
- Anant Fellowship in Climate Action
The ceremony was graced by notable figures including Ajay Piramal, President of ANU, and Dr. Sanjeev Vidyarthi, Provost of ANU. Vembu's presence was particularly resonant, coming soon after Zoho Corporation made headlines for a significant national endorsement. The Union government recently decided to switch to Zoho's platform for its email and digital services, a move that underscores the company's growing influence and trust in the Indian tech landscape.
Legacy and the Path Forward
Vembu's speech transcended typical graduation advice, framing design and architecture as profound responsibilities to future generations and the planet. He left the graduates with a compelling idea: to create lasting value that endures well beyond their own lives. His advocacy for localized, climate-conscious building practices presents a direct challenge to the homogenized urban development seen across the country.
By championing traditional techniques like those used in his centuries-old home, Vembu connected the dots between cultural heritage, environmental sustainability, and modern innovation. His message serves as a crucial directive for India's built environment sector, pushing it towards a future where development is in harmony with nature and local identity.
