Today, The Gyaan Project turns 9.

And honestly, it feels surreal.

Since 27th December 2016, I have been documenting Indian creative wisdom across disciplines and ways of thinking. After 318 episodes, I found myself wondering how to mark this moment and the answer came naturally.

So here it is.

A small celebration.

A warm offering.

9th Anniversary Soup

9 bites from 9 conversations.

This is primarily an audio episode. You can also watch it on YouTube if you like.

The episode opens with Dr. Uttara Chousalkar from Episode 66, singing a short phrase of Baul music. The episode then closes with a few lines by Mohammad Muneem Nazir (Alif), from Episode 265.

The soup brings together these nine questions and voices:

What is Design? by B.V. Doshi

What is a frame? by Prashant Godbole

Should art depict society or should society learn from art? by Varun Grover

Is it wise to change your career path in Design? by Ruchita Madhok

How was design seen in the 1970s? by Sujata Keshavan

What is the measure of a good designer? by Ayaz Basrai

Why do we need art? by Rajat Kapoor

I hope you enjoy this soup as much as I enjoyed making it.

If you would like to give me an anniversary gift - Please share this episode with as many people as you can. And if you have not already, do subscribe to the YouTube channel and The Gyaan Project website. It truly means a lot.

Thank you for listening.

Thank you for staying.

See you next year.

Take care.

And stay curious.

Summary

This episode of The Gyaan Project features Harish Kumar and Anurag Bartarey who shaped Ather Energy’s groundbreaking EV dashboard. Recorded just before Ather’s IPO, we dive into the design process, challenges, and the nuances that make the dashboard so unique. It is ideal for designers, technologists, and EV enthusiasts curious about how hardware and software come together on two wheels. This is not a sponsored episode, just a deep and fun conversation.

Topics discussed in the episode

* What drew you both to Ather, and what was the mindset when you joined?

* Anurag: How did you shift from digital design to vehicles?

* Harish: What tech foundations were critical for building the ecosystem?

* How did you imagine a new dashboard UX and navigation system?

* What challenges came with integrating the dashboard into the scooter’s design?

* Anurag: How did you design gesture interactions and Ather’s sonic identity?

* Harish: What were the Linux limitations and how did you test with OTA updates?

* How did a startup mindset shape Ather’s design outcomes?

* With constant updates, how do you balance evolution with the original vision?

* Looking back, what critical but underrated decisions shaped Ather?

* What advice for young designers working across hardware and software?

Reference links

* Harish Kumar — https://in.linkedin.com/in/harish-kumar-b0926465

* Anurag Bartarey — https://in.linkedin.com/in/anuragbartarey

* Anurag’s portfolio — https://www.abartarey.com/

* Ather Energy (Wikipedia) — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ather_Energy

* Ather 450 series (Wikipedia) — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ather_450

* Ather Energy (LinkedIn) — https://in.linkedin.com/company/ather-energy

* Ather Energy (Instagram) — https://www.instagram.com/atherenergy/

* Ep22: Understanding motorcycle design with Chetan Shedjale

* Ep. 274 - Designing Trucks with Sathiya Seelan Gangaasalam

Summary

In Ep. 317 of The Gyaan Project, Tanuj Goenka, Director at Kerry Hill Architects and jury member for The Drawing Board 2025, shares how emotion, context and conversation shape timeless architecture. From Bhutan to Kyoto, AlUla to Sadahalli, he reflects on slowing down the design process, listening to the land and building meaningfully. A must-listen for architecture students and young designers. In partnership with Rohan Builders and Mindspace Architects. All details at https://thedrawingboard.in/

Reference links

* The Drawing Board – Official Website: https:// thedrawingboard.in/

* Instagram – The Drawing Board: https:// www.instagram.com/thedrawingboard.in/

* YouTube – Museum of Geology Brief: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=60MynnKdDas

* Instagram – Sadahalli Quarry Competition Vibe: https:// www.instagram.com/p/DMX41peSLlc/

* Tanuj Goenka – LinkedIn: https:// www.linkedin.com/in/tanuj-goenka-4a58647/?originalSubdomain=sg

* Nacasa Interview with KHA: https:// www.nacasa.co.jp/column/2-01-designer-interview-kha-e

* Dezeen – Amanyangyun Interview: https:// www.dezeen.com/2019/05/17/amanyangyun-resort-kerry-hill-architects-ahead-awards-interview-video/

* Tatler – Aman Resorts and Emotion: https:// www.tatlerasia.com/homes/architecture-design/architect-behind-the-latest-aman-resorts-talks-emotions-and-space

* CLAD Global Feature: https:// www.cladglobal.com/architecture-design-features?codeid=32838&source=home&p=2

* YouTube – Amanyangyun Video 1: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmgeIGE6q08

* YouTube – Amanyangyun Video 2: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ceFbI82hVQ

* SIA Event Page 1: https:// store.sia.org.sg/tc-events/16244

* SIA Event Page 2: https:// store.sia.org.sg/tc-events/79875

* AHEAD Awards – Amanyangyun Film Library: https:// www.aheadawards.com/film-library/amanyangyun-shanghai-china

* Sleepifier – KHA Feature: https:// sleepifier.com/architecture-design/kerry-hill-architects/

* Instagram Post: https:// www.instagram.com/p/DG2A1JXt0T8/

* Instagram – KHA Studios: https:// www.instagram.com/kha.studios/

* Instagram Post: https:// www.instagram.com/p/DG0Uf1JS1SL/?hl=en

Summary

In this episode of The Gyaan Project, architect Manjunath dives deep into the power of observation, the role of intensity in creative work, and the beauty of the unseen. A must-listen for young architects, designers, and creatives participating in The Drawing Board 2025 competition. Set against the backdrop of Sadahalli Quarry, this conversation explores how to approach design with sensitivity, curiosity, and care. Presented in partnership with Rohan Builders and The Drawing Board.

Topics discussed in this episode

* What is the difference between seeing and observing?

* How can we observe without bringing in our biases?

* What does experience mean to you?

* How do observation and experience shape your design process?

* How do you define intensity in creative work?

* How can a designer balance knowing the whole story with focused intensity?

* What is your reading of the Sadahalli Quarry brief?

* How do you interpret the idea of the unseen?

* Can technology help us experience the unseen or aid the creative process?

Reference links

* The Drawing Board – Official Website

* Instagram – The Drawing Board: https://www.instagram.com/thedrawingboard.in/

* The Drawing Board 2025 — official competition overview and brief

* “The Drawing Board 2025 – 10th Edition” on World Architecture Community - https://worldarchitecture.org/architecture-news/fpzhe/the-drawing-board-2025-–-10th-edition.html

* YouTube video introducing the Museum of Geology brief at Sadahalli Quarry -

* https://wcfa.ac.in/staff/b-l-manjunath/

* https://www.instagram.com/manjunath.bl/?hl=en

* https://manjunathandco.com/

* https://www.archdaily.com/professional/b-l-manjunath-co?ad_source=office

* https://www.linkedin.com/in/manjunath-b-l-45973929/?originalSubdomain=in

Summary

In this episode, architect Rajeev Kathpalia of Vastu Shilpa Sangath shares timeless wisdom on designing with empathy, slowness, and stewardship. From public space to net-zero campuses, we explore what young architects must unlearn to create meaningful, inclusive, and sustainable environments. A must-listen for architecture students and urban thinkers. Presented in partnership with The Drawing Board 2025 and Rohan Builders. Submission deadline: 6th Sept. More at thedrawingboard.in.

Topics discussed in this episode

* What does stewardship mean to you, and how can public spaces be designed for shared benefit in a country like India?

* How can sites like Sadahalli Quarry be opened to the public while still attracting private investment?

* What does “net zero” mean beyond metrics, and how can young architects start thinking in that direction?

* What’s the least that needs to be built in a public space to make it meaningful and adaptable over time?

* How do you observe how people use space, and how does that influence your design process?

* What does building “slow” mean to you, and how can young architects balance slowness with the urgency of development?

Reference links

* Rajeev Kathpalia – LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajeev-kathpalia-35418099

* Vastu Shilpa Sangath – Rajeev Kathpalia bio: https://www.sangath.org/rajeev-kathpalia/

* Beyond Smritivan – Architectural Legacy (Elev8 2025): https://thearchitectsdiary.com/beyond-smritivan-rajeev-kathpalia-on-architectural-legacy-elev8-2025/

* Community-Centric Architecture | Rajeev Kathpalia | TADPod: https://thearchitectsdiary.com/community-centric-architecture-ar-rajeev-kathpalia-vastushilpa-sangath-tadpod/

* Designing Humane Cities – Sangath Interview: https://www.sangath.org/news/architect-rajeev-kathpalia-talks-about-the-need-to-create-humane-cities/

* The Drawing Board – Official Website: https://thedrawingboard.in/

* The Drawing Board 2025 Announcement (World Architecture): https://worldarchitecture.org/architecture-news/fpzhe/the-drawing-board-2025-–-10th-edition.html

* Instagram – The Drawing Board: https://www.instagram.com/thedrawingboard.in/

* Instagram – Rajeev Kathpalia: https://www.instagram.com/kathpalia_r/

Summary

(Hindi) अब्दुल कलाम शेख, एक अनुभवी इलेक्ट्रिशियन, के साथ विस्तृत बातचीत। एपिसोड में कवर किया गया है कि इलेक्ट्रिशियन कैसे बनते हैं, 12 हजार से शुरू करके 45 हजार तक कैसे कमा सकते हैं, कॉन्ट्रैक्टर्स और आर्किटेक्ट्स के साथ नेटवर्किंग कैसे करते हैं, सेफ्टी गाइडलाइन्स क्या हैं, और इस प्रोफेशन का फ्यूचर क्या है। परफेक्ट है उन सबके लिए जो अल्टरनेटिव करियर एक्सप्लोर कर रहे हैं।

(English) Detailed conversation with Abdul Kalam Shaikh, an experienced electrician. Episode covers how to become an electrician, earning progression from ₹12K to ₹45K, networking with contractors and architects, safety guidelines, and future prospects of the profession. Perfect for those exploring alternative career options or interested in skilled trades. Includes practical insights on daily routines, job hunting strategies, and industry secrets that help build a successful electrical career.

Reference links

* https://iti.somaiya.edu.in/en/programme/electrician/

* [https://nsticalicut.dgt.gov.in/node/2429?](https://nsticalicut.dgt.gov.in/node/2429?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

* https://bietc.com/iti-electrician/

* https://nhit.in/iti-courses/iti-electrician/

* https://aiecet.com/iti-electrician-course-details.php

* https://www.urbanitijsr.com/course/electrician

* https://nctaindia.in/courses?course_id=148

* https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/big-business-backs-skilling-push-reliance-adani-mahindra-among-firms-eye-iti-upgrade-rs-60000-crore-plan-gains-momentum/articleshow/122836940.cms

Summary

In this insightful conversation, Kirti Trivedi reflects on the concept of order in design, drawing from his experiences at IDC and the Ulm School. He explains order as the relationship between elements, discusses hierarchy, mapping, and the interplay of inner and outer order. Drawing parallels with Indian philosophy, aesthetics, and spiritual ideas like dharma and Vishnu’s iconography, he emphasizes that true beauty emerges from well-formed internal order, not superficial styling.

Join the new journey

* YouTube Channel – Join 4K+ subscribers. 🎥

* TGP SamaChar – A newsletter with 4 curated finds across episodes.

* Instagram – Stay updated with episode updates and more

* LinkedIn Page - A new dedicated page for TGP

* WhatsApp Channel – One-way episode updates for now. With your support, it could soon become a vibrant community.

* Recommend a guest - Have someone in mind who would be a great fit for The Gyaan Project?

In this enriching conversation, filmmaker and educator Mazhar Kamran shares his journey across fiction, documentary, cinematography, and teaching. He discusses storytelling as a way to make sense of the world, the impact of early influences like Herzog’s Enigma of Kaspar Hauser, and his work on films like Satya, Mohandas, Nilani, and Safar Mein Sheher. The dialogue explores the role of education, intuition, and responsibility in shaping cinema and storytellers.

Watch video episode on YouTube

Summary

Veteran filmmaker Arunaraje discusses learning as a lifelong journey where everyone is both student and teacher. She emphasizes staying open to new perspectives, the power of unlearning rigid beliefs, and cinema's educational impact. Key insights include the importance of questioning everything, distinguishing between knowledge and wisdom, filmmaker responsibility in shaping society, and the need for film appreciation in schools to enrich young minds.

In this eye-opening conversation, Vivek Kant shares insights from his interdisciplinary journey spanning electrical engineering, cognitive science, and human-centered design. He explores the critical intersection of humans and technology in complex systems, emphasizing the need for designers who can balance technical requirements with human capabilities. Perfect for young Indian designers seeking to expand beyond conventional design thinking, this episode offers practical wisdom on applying human-centered approaches to sectors like defense, government services, and infrastructure where thoughtful design can prevent accidents and improve lives.

People Mentioned

Richard Buchanan - Design theorist who developed the concept of "orders of design"

James Riesel (James Reason) - Psychologist who developed the "Swiss cheese model" of accident causation

Christian von Ehrenfeld (Christian von Ehrenfels) - Austrian philosopher who conceptualized Gestalt qualities

Ram Mykala - Heads the musculoskeletal disorders lab at the National Safety Council in the US

Reference Links for Further Reading

Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) National Design Innovation Committee - Hosts Vivek's policy report on human-centered design in Indian defense

Human Systems Integration in Defense - Concept of integrating human factors into defense systems

Swiss Cheese Model - Accident causation model referenced in the discussion

Human Factors and Ergonomics - Professional field discussed as essential for complex systems

Cognitive Systems Engineering - Discipline that focuses on human cognition in complex work environments

Orders of Design - Richard Buchanan's concept mentioned in the conversation

Design for Defense - Resources related to design in defense sector

Gestalt Principles - Philosophy discussed regarding how humans perceive whole patterns

Join the new journey

YouTube Channel – Join 4K+ subscribers. 🎥

TGP SamaChar – A newsletter with 4 curated finds across episodes.

Instagram – Stay updated with episode updates and more

LinkedIn Page - A new dedicated page for TGP

WhatsApp Channel – One-way episode updates for now. With your support, it could soon become a vibrant community.

Recommend a guest - Have someone in mind who would be a great fit for The Gyaan Project?