Happenings

Day/Date:   Wednesday 7th Jan 2026 to Friday 9th Jan 2026
Timing:  9:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Activity Organised by: CBRI, CSIR IIT Roorkee
Activity Organised for:   CBRI Architecture Competition winners
Invited Expert:Ar. Ram Satish from IIT Department of Architecture, Roorkee.
                          Local artisans from Himachal Pradesh for taking up workshop

His /her expertise (In brief):   Traditional vernacular architecture practices in Himachal Pradesh, namely ‘Kathkuni Architecture’
No. of participants in the activity:  4 Students & 1 Faculty

Introduction to the ActivityThe three-day workshop offered participants an immersive experience combining traditional craftsmanship, collaborative learning, and cultural exploration.
The workshop began with an introduction to the activity, followed by intensive hands-on sessions in wood carving, allowing students to understand material behaviour, tools, and craft techniques through direct making. The second day focused on advanced wood carving exercises, including group-based activities that encouraged teamwork, design thinking, and peer learning. Participants also presented their work, reflecting on process, challenges, and learning outcomes.

On the final day, the workshop introduced students to Aipan, a traditional folk art of Uttarakhand. Through a lecture and guided practical sessions, participants explored its cultural significance and translated the art form into wall-based and freehand applications. The workshop concluded with a valedictory session and certificate distribution, marking a meaningful learning experience rooted in craft, culture, and hands-on architectural understanding.

 Objective Of The Activity:

The objective of the activity was to expose students to traditional craft practices through hands-on learning, enabling them to understand materiality, tools, and making processes beyond the classroom. The workshop aimed to strengthen experiential learning, teamwork, and design thinking, while fostering appreciation for indigenous art forms and vernacular knowledge systems. It also sought to bridge theory and practice by encouraging students to reflect on craftsmanship as a valuable input in architectural design and contemporary practice.