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Architecture Storytelling with Heart, Grit and Real Emotion

Architecture storytelling that shows courage behind every idea

Architects Gurjit Singh Matharoo and Vagish Naganur’s book Wit-ness to Mat-Haroo Spirit was introduced in Ahmedabad on Friday at the historic Mill Owner’s Building. Many architects, students, writers and design lovers attended the gathering, turning the evening into a warm celebration of architecture, creativity and the stories that often stay hidden behind great designs.

The book, written with honesty and humour, shares the side of architecture that most people never get to see. Many design stories focus only on the final building or the perfect picture. But the real work happens long before that. The book explains the small wins and big struggles behind an architect’s life. It talks about tricky clients, ideas that fail, late-night problem-solving moments and the emotional journey that shapes a designer. These parts rarely make it into formal papers or glossy magazines, which is why this book stands out. It feels like a peek into the workshop where ideas grow, change and sometimes fall apart.

Gurjit Singh Matharoo said that people often think architecture is clean, neat and elegant, but the truth is more chaotic. He shared that drawing a building is only the final step. Before that come many days of confusion, laughter, frustration and effort. His words reminded the audience that every strong building begins with many imperfect attempts.

His co-author, Vagish Naganur, also shared his feelings. He said they wanted to write about architecture as they lived it in real life, not as it is normally shown. He spoke about grit, laughter, bruised egos and sudden happy surprises. He added that if readers see their own daily struggles in these stories, then the book has met its purpose. His message was simple: every creative field has its ups and downs, and architecture is no different.

After the book was revealed, a lively panel discussion followed. It featured respected names such as Prof. Miki Desai, a former CEPT University faculty member known for his work in architecture and culture; architect and writer Praveen Bavadekar; architect and author Robert Stephens; and National Award–winning film critic and writer Sohini Chattopadhyay. Each speaker brought a unique viewpoint. They discussed how research, history, cultural study and day-to-day practice shape the world of design. They also spoke about how a book like Wit-ness to Mat-Haroo Spirit helps people understand the human side of architectural work.

The event was held in collaboration with Artius, a leader in mass timber technology in India. This company promotes sustainable materials and new building methods, making it a fitting partner for a project that values creativity and innovation. The Mill Owner’s Building, designed by the legendary French architect Le Corbusier, created the perfect backdrop. The structure itself symbolises bold thinking and fresh ideas, which align with the book’s spirit.

The audience included young students eager to learn from experienced architects, as well as writers who appreciated the book’s storytelling. Many participants said that the book offered them comfort. It reminded them that even well-known architects go through setbacks and moments of doubt. Others said it encouraged them to look at their own work with more patience and courage.

The book is now available at major bookstores and on popular online platforms. Readers who enjoy architecture, design or creative journeys will find it refreshing because it shows that even a strong building starts with a messy story. It highlights that creativity is not only about talent but also about trying again, trusting the process and staying open to new ideas.

The evening in Ahmedabad felt like a tribute to design and human experience. The book, the speakers and the venue came together to show that architecture is not only about shapes and structures but also about people, emotions and the journey behind every idea.