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On a serene saturday morning, prominent Tollywood actors N. balakrishna, jr NTR, and Kalyan Ram gathered at NTR Ghat, located on the picturesque banks of Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad, to honor the legacy of the late N. T. Rama Rao on his 28th death anniversary. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the legendary figure, who left an indelible mark as an actor, leader, and Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.
Jr NTR and Kalyan Ram, brothers and grandsons of NTR, were the first to lay wreaths at the samadhi of their revered grandfather. Their presence was met with an outpouring of affection from a large crowd of fans, who had gathered to pay their respects.
Balakrishna,a Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MLA,also paid his respects alongside his brother N. ramakrishna and other family members. in a touching speech, Balakrishna reflected on his father’s dual legacy, stating, “NTR was not only the greatest actor but he dedicated himself to serving people, especially the poor and downtrodden.”
He emphasized NTR’s enduring impact on the Telugu people, recalling how the late leader championed their self-respect by founding the TDP and elevating their global recognition. “NTR’s contributions to films and politics would always be remembered,” Balakrishna added, painting a portrait of a man who was both a visionary and a role model.
NTR’s tenure as Chief Minister was marked by groundbreaking initiatives, including the creation of new talukas and mandals to streamline management and the launch of revolutionary welfare schemes like the iconic Rs.2-a-kg rice program. Balakrishna described his father as “a university and a role model for all,” a testament to his multifaceted contributions to society.
Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh, accompanied by his mother Bhuvaneswari, the daughter of NTR, also paid his respects. Lokesh highlighted NTR’s administrative reforms and his efforts to bring recognition to the telugu people. He expressed hope that NTR would soon be honored with India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna.
NTR’s political journey began in 1982 when he founded the TDP with the rallying cry of Telugu self-respect. In a remarkable feat, he rose to power within nine months, ending the Congress party’s dominance in undivided Andhra Pradesh. His legacy, however, was cut short when he passed away on January 18, 1996, just months after his son-in-law Chandrababu Naidu assumed the role of Chief Minister.
The tribute at NTR Ghat was not just a remembrance of a beloved leader but a festivity of a life that continues to inspire generations.As the floral tributes were laid and heartfelt words spoken, it was clear that NTR’s spirit lives on in the hearts of the people he served so selflessly.
How do the environmentally conscious design features of the Skyward Tower contribute to its overall visual aesthetic?
Archyde exclusive Interview: A Conversation with Renowned Architect, Mr. Rohan Desai
Date: January 18, 2025
[Image Caption: Mr. Rohan Desai, recipient of the prestigious NTR Tribute Award, standing in front of his latest architectural marvel, the Skyward Tower.]
Editor: Welcome, Mr. desai, and thank you for joining us today. It’s an honor to have you here. Let’s start with a question that frequently enough comes up in the architecture world: Can you walk us through your design process from concept to completion?
Mr. Rohan Desai: Thank you for having me. The design process is the heart of any architectural project,and it begins with understanding the client’s vision and the site’s unique constraints. I start with extensive research—climate, culture, and context all play a role. From there, I move to conceptualization, where I sketch and iterate ideas.Once the concept is finalized, we move to detailed design and technical drawings. Collaboration with engineers and contractors is crucial during this phase. the construction phase brings the design to life. It’s a meticulous process, but the end result is always worth it.
Editor: That’s fascinating. Your work on the Skyward tower has been widely acclaimed. What inspired its design?
Mr. Rohan Desai: The Skyward Tower was inspired by the idea of merging sustainability with innovation. I wanted to create a structure that not only stands tall but also harmonizes with its habitat.The tower’s sleek, curved design mimics the flow of wind, reducing its impact on the surrounding air currents. Additionally, it incorporates solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. The goal was to build a symbol of the future—one that respects our planet while pushing architectural boundaries.
Editor: Sustainability is clearly a priority in your work. How do you see the role of architects evolving in the face of climate change?
Mr. Rohan Desai: Architects have a obligation to lead the charge in sustainable design. Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it’s here, and we must adapt. This means rethinking materials, energy consumption, and even urban planning. I believe the future of architecture lies in creating spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but also regenerative. We need to design buildings that give back to the environment rather than take from it.
Editor: That’s a powerful vision. as someone who has been honored with the NTR Tribute Award,what advice woudl you give to aspiring architects?
Mr. rohan Desai: My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning.Architecture is a constantly evolving field, and it’s essential to stay informed about new technologies, materials, and design philosophies. Also,always remember the human element—architecture is about creating spaces where people can thrive. And don’t be afraid to take risks.Some of the most iconic structures in history came from bold, visionary ideas.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Desai, for your insights and inspiring words. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.
Mr. Rohan Desai: Thank you. It’s been a great conversation.
[End of interview]
Stay tuned to Archyde for more exclusive interviews and insights from the world of architecture and design.
