The recently inaugurated triangular Parliament building, a standout project in the Central Vista revamp, has been attributed to the esteemed architect Bimal Hasmukh Patel. Patel, 64, an accomplished veteran in architecture, urban planning, and academia, is known for his innovative designs and commitment to “respect history”.
Born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on August 31, 1961, Patel has led numerous high-profile projects, including the Central Vista revamp, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, and the Sabarmati Riverfront development. His expertise is based on more than 30 years of practice and a strong architectural education obtained from the Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT) in Ahmedabad.
Following in the footsteps of his father, Hasmukh Chandulal Patel, the founder of HCP Design Planning and Management Private Limited, Bimal Patel is currently at the helm of the firm. His notable architectural contributions include structures such as the Aga Khan Academy in Hyderabad, Amul Dairy in Mumbai, Container Terminal in Chennai, and the architectural design of IIT Jodhpur, among others.
The Union Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri, announced that Patel’s firm would receive ₹229.75 crore for consultancy services for the Central Vista Project. The services include the preparation of the project’s master plan, design, landscaping, cost estimation, and integration of traffic and parking facilities.
The design of the new Parliament building, particularly its triangular shape, has caught public attention. Patel explained that the triangle was a response to the land’s geometry and also represents the three main spaces within the building: Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and a Central Lounge. He further illuminated the importance of triangles in sacred geometries found in numerous religions and cultures across India.
Bimal Hasmukh Patel, an eminent figure in Indian architecture, continues to make significant contributions to the urban landscape. His numerous achievements were acknowledged in 2019 when he was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honours. As President of CEPT University and leading HCP Design Planning and Management Private Limited, Patel remains an influential figure in India’s architectural and urban planning landscape.
