Prof Shireesh Atmaram Deshpande

“Professor Shireesh Deshpande chose the far more difficult task: to mould young minds into thoughtful, responsible, and rooted architects.”—A Tribute by Sarbjit Singh Bagha

Sarbjit Singh Bagha shares his tribute to Prof. Shireesh Atmaram Deshpande (1934–2026), a pioneering figure in Indian architectural education who passed away on 10 April 2026 at 91. Known affectionately as “Dada,” he spent nearly four decades at VNIT Nagpur, founding India’s first M.Arch. programme and introducing innovative pedagogy. He served as President of the Indian Institute of Architects (1992–1994). Choosing teaching over professional practice, he shaped generations of architects.

Prof Shireesh Atmaram Deshpande

“Professor Shireesh Deshpande chose the far more difficult task: to mould young minds into thoughtful, responsible, and rooted architects.”—A Tribute by Sarbjit Singh Bagha

Sarbjit Singh Bagha shares his tribute to Prof. Shireesh Atmaram Deshpande (1934–2026), a pioneering figure in Indian architectural education who passed away on 10 April 2026 at 91. Known affectionately as “Dada,” he spent nearly four decades at VNIT Nagpur, founding India’s first M.Arch. programme and introducing innovative pedagogy. He served as President of the Indian Institute of Architects (1992–1994). Choosing teaching over professional practice, he shaped generations of architects.

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