Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) College of Architecture, Pune, organised the Memorial Lecture and Teachers’ Day Award Ceremony on 5th September 2026 to honour the memory and enduring legacy of Prof. S. L. Kolhatkar and celebrate excellence, dedication, and significant contributions in the fields of architecture and education.
The event was graced by Mrs. Swapnali Vishwajeet Kadam, Chairperson, Bharati Vidyapeeth Rabindranath Tagore School of Excellence, as the Chief Guest. Her presence added significance to the occasion, which brought together the values of academic excellence, professional inspiration, and recognition of dedicated educators and architects.
The programme featured a memorial lecture by Ar. Sanjay Patil, Nashik, titled “Designing with Purpose: Strategies for Responsible Architecture.” The lecture aimed to inspire students, particularly Second Year B.Arch. students and learners across all programmes, by encouraging critical thinking, responsible design approaches, and a deeper understanding of the role of architecture in shaping the built environment.
The ceremony also recognised the achievements and contributions of distinguished professionals and educators through the Architectural Excellence Inspiration Citation 2026, the Academic Luminary Award 2026, and the Promising Educator Award 2026. These recognitions celebrated professional commitment, academic excellence, innovative practices, and dedication to architectural education.
Awardees and Honourees
- Ar. Sanjay Patil, Nashik
- Ar. Aneeta Benninger, Pune
- Ar. Sujata Patil, Pune
- Ar. Pooja Joshi, Pune
The programme served as a meaningful platform to commemorate Prof. S. L. Kolhatkar’s legacy, inspire students through academic and professional discourse, and acknowledge the valuable contributions of architects and educators. The ceremony reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to nurturing a culture of academic excellence, responsible architectural practice, innovation, and continuous professional growth.