Dr. A K Kasthurba, Professor, Department of Architecture and Planning, NIT Calicut, has won HUDCO National Design Awards 2023-24 for the Revitalization of Tali Heritage Project. Dr. Kasthurba was presented the award by Sri B T Umesh, Regional Director, HUDCO during the annual day function held on 29th May 2024 at Taj Vivanta, Thiruvananthapuram.  

The Tali Urban Heritage project was selected for the award under the Conservation Project Category, considering the design concept and the project's impact. Preservation of Architectural identity, traditional culture, community participation and positive utilisation of the area were the key highlights of this revitalization project. The renovation of Tali temple by ONGC –CSR funding in 2009 was also co-ordinated by Dr Kasthurba. She has authored a book on Architecture of Tali Temple published by Vastuvidya Pratistanam, Calicut.

The revitalisation of Urban Heritage Core, Calicut, focusing on the Tali and Kuttichira  Heritage Zones, was prepared by Dr Kasthurba and Team in 2020 with the directives of Sri Sambasiva Rao, IAS District Collector and Chairman District Tourism Promotion Council, Kozhikode. The project report submitted by NIT Calicut with an  estimated cost of Rs. 3 Crores was funded by Tourism department.

Tali temple and its premises reflect the history of Kozhikode and memories of  Zamorins reign during the medieval era. Temples and environs had significance in the political, social, cultural and religious events with active participation of community. The construction works were carried out by Nirmithi Kendra, Kozhikode and mural art works by Artist Nibin Raj.

This urban revitalization project preserves and highlights the unique cultural and architectural identity of the region for the future generations. Based on the design by Prof. Kasthurba, the area was transformed as an open museum for generations to experience rich history and culture of Kozhikode. Seating areas were provided in space around the pond and sacred trees for the public to experience the cool tranquil environment near the large pond. This urban space with unique landscape features and lighting has transformed to a welcoming serene space   for the tourists and scholars who visit Kozhikode especially during hot summer months. The area has become appealing with the murals depicting themes of significant events in the history of  Kozhikode adds grandeur to the city.

This urban renewal project was shortlisted for the city beautiful award under Amrut scheme  captivating heritage urban space in the proximity of Palayam Bus stand and railway station. This project illustrated economic, social and environmental benefits for the local community. This project is a model for urban development through heritage conservation.

Media Reports

• HUDCO Design Award for NIT-C Professor - The Hindu