Archive · 24 Dec 2025
Indian Cities' Evolution Shaped by History
Indian cities are growing very fast with new buildings and roads.
But to understand why they look the way they do, we need to look at their history.
A new book by Prof. Pratyush Shankar explains how Indian cities have changed over time.
It talks about how old cities were built and how they have grown.
The book uses many examples from different parts of India.
Prof. Shankar has also shared his ideas with people in other countries.
He believes that knowing the history of cities can help us plan better for the future.
This book is useful for students, planners, and people who make decisions about cities.
India's cities are rapidly expanding, reflecting aspirations for growth and modernity.
Prof. Pratyush Shankar's book 'Urban History of India' explores how historical layers influence modern urban challenges.
The book includes 42 case studies from across the Indian subcontinent, showing how geography, politics, and institutions shaped urban forms.
Prof. Shankar has presented his research at international universities, connecting historical insights with contemporary urban issues.
The book encourages a more informed understanding of Indian cities, acknowledging both growth and historical influences.
- Who
- Prof. Pratyush Shankar, a practicing architect and academic
- What
- Publication of the book 'Urban History of India'
- When
- December 23 (publication date mentioned)
- Where
- India, with international academic engagements in Europe and the UK
- Why
- To understand the historical layers influencing modern Indian cities and to inform future urban planning and policy
- Author
- Prof. Pratyush Shankar
- Book Title
- Urban History of India
- Publisher
- Oxford University Press
- Case Studies
- 42
- Geographical Scope
- Indian subcontinent, including Himalayan region
- International Universities
- University of Cambridge, Sciences Po, Paris, RWTH Aachen University, University of Bonn
- Prof. Shankar's Role
- Provost and Dean, School of Environmental Design and Architecture (SEDA), Navrachana University, Vadodara