The 34th JK Architect of the Year Awards Ceremony, organized by JK Cement Ltd., was successfully held on 21st December 2025 at Taj Palace, New Delhi. The prestigious ceremony brought together eminent architects, construction industry professionals, academicians, and government dignitaries, reaffirming JK AYA’s position as one of India’s most respected and enduring architectural award platforms.
The evening was graced by the Hon’ble Former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, as the Chief Guest, and Ar. Shirish Beri, recipient of the 26th JK AYA Great Master’s Award, as the Guest of Honour. Their presence added immense stature and inspiration to the occasion.
Hon’ble Former President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind highlighted the transformative role of architecture in shaping society and the future. He said, “Architecture has always been more than the creation of physical structures. It shapes how we live, interact with our surroundings, and envision the future. When architects design spaces, they are not merely constructing buildings but creating environments that nurture communities, aspirations, and cultural identity.”
Emphasising India’s rich architectural legacy, he added that the country’s ancient towns, temples, forts, and traditional homes reflect deep alignment with climate, context, and sustainability. He noted that these time-tested principles—such as natural ventilation, water conservation, and harmony with the environment—remain highly relevant as the world faces challenges like climate change, urban congestion, and resource depletion.
Highlighting the growing importance of sustainable development, Shri Kovind underlined that green architecture is no longer optional but essential. He stated that sustainable architecture goes beyond eco-friendly materials and involves rethinking the entire lifecycle of buildings, incorporating energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, waste reduction, and resilience to changing environmental conditions.
Congratulating the award winners, he said their work reflects excellence, vision, and responsibility, shaping not only India’s physical landscapes but also the values of future generations. He also appreciated the jury and organisers for their commitment to architectural excellence and commended JK Cement Ltd. for nurturing the JK Architect of the Year Awards platform for decades and encouraging meaningful dialogue around sustainability and innovation.
The ceremony was attended by senior leadership from JK Cement Ltd., including Dr. Nidhipati Singhania, Vice Chairman, Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement Ltd. & Chairman – JK Architect of the Year Awards, Shri Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director and CEO, Shri A.K. Saraogi, Deputy Managing Director & CFO, and Mr. Rana Pratap Singh, Administrator – JK AYA. Renowned architects, IIA National Council members, and professionals from Delhi and across India and abroad were also present.
The program commenced with the welcome of the dignitaries followed by the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing knowledge, creativity, and progress. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Nidhipati Singhania emphasized JK Cement Ltd.’s long-standing commitment to architecture, nation-building, and sustainable development.
A poignant highlight of the evening was the launch of a tribute book dedicated to Late Shri Yadupati Singhania, former visionary leader, whose ideals and leadership continue to inspire generations. The book was formally unveiled by Shri A.K. Saraogi, Deputy Managing Director & CFO, JK Cement Ltd., paying homage to the remarkable legacy and enduring contributions of Late Shri Yadupati Singhania to JK Cement Ltd. and the architectural fraternity.
Mr. Rana Pratap Singh, Administrator – JK AYA, expressed his gratitude to the distinguished guests and the architectural community for their continued support. He also acknowledged the jury members for their meticulous evaluation of entries and congratulated the JK AYA Secretariat and JK Cement Ltd. team for the seamless execution of the ceremony.
The event also featured an engaging Winning Entries Exhibition, which attracted keen interest from young architecture professionals, offering valuable exposure to innovative projects and contemporary architectural thought.
The 34th JK Architect of the Year Awards once again succeeded in bringing together architects from across India and overseas, fostering dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration within the architectural community. The ceremony concluded with networking and dinner, marking a memorable evening celebrating architecture, legacy, and excellence
Winners list
GREEN ARCHITECTURE AWARD
- Ar. Manit Rastogi, New Delhi
- Project: Surat Diamond Bourse, Surat
INDIAN ARCHITECTURE AWARDS (IAA)
ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR
- Ar. Sanjay Nayak — Mumbai
- Project: Administrative Office of JSW Steel Coated Products Ltd., Vasind
COMMENDATION AWARDS
- Private Residence
- Ar. Abhijit Kothari & Ar. Pranali Kothari — Nashik
- Project: House of Five Line, Arghya Farmhouse, Nashik
- Public Building
- Ar. Ruturaj Parikh — Goa
- Project: Narindrapur Market, Siwan, Bihar
Group Housing
- Ar. Biju Kuriakose — Chennai
- Project: 38 & Banyan, Bengaluru
Project Designed but Not Executed
- Ar. Harpreet Kaur — Bengaluru
- Project: Solina Silk Factory, Srinagar
YOUNG ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR
- Ar. Aroty Panyang — Arunachal Pradesh
- Project: Great Hornbill Gate, Itanagar
ARCHITECTURE STUDENT OF THE YEAR
- Mr. Qazi Shadman Qureshi
- College: BMS College of Architecture, Bengaluru
- Project: Sonzal – Rejuvenating the Lost Paradise: A Case of Kashmir
INDIAN STATES ARCHITECTURE AWARDS (ISAA)
- ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR
- Ar. Ruchir R. Tiwari — Indore
- Project: Manmatha, Udaipur
COMMENDATION AWARD
- Ar. Tushar Sogani — Jaipur
- Project: Raffles Hotel, Jaipur
FOREIGN COUNTRIES’ ARCHITECTURE AWARDS (FCAA)
ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR
- Ar. Saiqa Iqbal Meghna — Bangladesh
- Project: Zebun Nessa Mosque, Bangladesh
COMMENDATION AWARD
- Ar. Palinda Kannangara — Sri Lanka
- Project: The Courtyard Residence, Bengaluru
YOUNG ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR
- Ar. Kasun C. Perera — Sri Lanka
- Project: Waraka Udawalawe, Sri Lanka
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