-
KISS Hosts Kalinga Conversations on Indigenous Values in the Built Environment
-
KISS Hosts Kalinga Conversations on Indigenous Values in the Built Environment
-
KISS Hosts Kalinga Conversations on Indigenous Values in the Built Environment
-
KISS Hosts Kalinga Conversations on Indigenous Values in the Built Environment
The Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) on 6th November, 2024 hosted a landmark event in its Kalinga Conversation series, focusing on “Indigenous Values in the Built Environment,” organized by Project K-MUSE in collaboration with KIIT School of Architecture and Planning, UNESCO-UNITWIN Network and the International Institute for the Inclusive Museum. This session brought forward new perspectives on integrating indigenous knowledge into contemporary architecture.
The event’s keynote was delivered by Professor Paul Christopher Memmott, a prominent architect and anthropologist from the University of Queensland, Australia, known for his contributions to sustainable and culturally inclusive design. His expertise highlighted how indigenous principles can shape resilient urban-rural spaces, safeguarding heritage values while addressing contemporary challenges.
Accompanying the conversation as discussant was Sri Soumyendu Shankar Ray, Director General of KIIT School of Architecture and Planning and founder of Vastukar. His insights, rooted in decades of research, showcased the transformative potential of indigenous design in India and especially in Odisha. He emphasized how Odisha’s rich traditions and resources hold immense potential to inspire sustainable design and architecture.
Participants joined from over 10 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, the Philippines, and Uganda, underscoring the global interest in this theme. The event opened with remarks from KISS Pro-Chancellor Professor Amareswar Galla, whose dedication to promoting Indigenous knowledge worldwide has set a strong foundation for Project K-MUSE’s goals. His vision of heritage inclusivity was central to the discussion, which focused on safeguarding cultural values in sustainable ways. Vice-Chancellor Professor Deepak Kumar Behera also spoke, emphasizing KISS’s commitment to research and advocacy for indigenous communities. Under his leadership, KISS continues to pioneer projects that promote indigenous knowledge across disciplines. The convenor of the Kalinga Conversations Dr. Sushree Mohanty, Co-Director, Project K-MUSE moderated the session.