'Homogenisation creates cultural amnesia'

Dikshu C Kukreja is a leading Indian architect and the managing principal at Delhi-based C.P. Kukreja Architects, one of the country's most reputed architectural firms.

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A strong proponent of architecture rooted in its social, cultural and climatic context, he is known for blending contemporary design with local sensitivity. He spoke to HT's Manoj Sharma about the importance of contextual architecture. Edited excerpts:

How has globalisation influenced the architectural language of Indian cities over the years are we losing the essence of "place"?

Globalisation has played an important role in expanding the architectural imagination in India. However, in this pursuit, we are rapidly losing the nuances that define our places. Architecture, at its core, must be rooted-it is not just about form, but also about memory, community, and climate.

When every city begins to resemble another, we risk erasing the very distinctiveness that makes each Indian city unique.

From Gurugram to Hyderabad, we're seeing a skyline of glass towers and luxury condos that could belong anywhere. Why do you think Indian developers and architects are increasingly favouring this aesthetic over vernacular forms?

This tendency is a reflection of aspiration, a strong belief that the international aesthetic symbolises success, modernity, and global relevance.