Pioneering Sustainable Architecture in India: G. Shankar
In a world driven by urban expansion and concrete jungles, few architects have dared to challenge conventional practices while prioritizing sustainability, affordability, and social welfare. G. Shankar, the visionary behind the Costford (Centre of Science and Technology for Rural Development) movement, is one such trailblazer. His work has redefined Kerala’s architectural landscape by merging traditional wisdom with modern sustainability, ensuring that architecture serves the people, not just the privileged few. Early Life & Education: The Making of a Visionary Born in 1959 in Kerala, Gopal Shankar’s fascination with architecture was driven by a deep-rooted commitment to social justice and environmental consciousness. He pursued architecture at College of Engineering, Thiruvananthapuram, and later honed his expertise in urban and regional planning at the Delhi School of Planning and Architecture. However, unlike many of his peers who pursued commercial success, Shankar was drawn to...