MEET Ponni M. Concessao THE FIRST WOMAN ARCHITECT TO DESIGN A SECRETARIAT IN INDIA
Architecture + Design|June 2023
In an interview with Architecture+Design, the indomitable architect talks about her architectural journey and design philosophy that translates to an enviable repertoire of award-winning projects
SEEMA SREEDHARAN
MEET Ponni M. Concessao THE FIRST WOMAN ARCHITECT TO DESIGN A SECRETARIAT IN INDIA

The newly-inaugurated Dr BR Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat in Hyderabad is colossal, if you go by the statistics alone. The impressive structure in white is spread over 29 acres and rises 265 ft high; it is taller than the Qutub Minar in Delhi and the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad. The total built-up area is 1,051,676 sqft, while that of the main complex alone is 10 lakh sqft. And it was completed in a record time of 24 months. The building is not just a seat of power, but also a magnificent sight to behold, alongside the historic Charminar and Golconda Fort. The iconic structure was envisioned and executed for the Telangana Government by renowned architects Dr Ponni Concessao and Dr Oscar Concessao of the award-winning architectural firm, Oscar, Ponni & Rahul Architects.

This story is from the June 2023 edition of Architecture + Design.

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This story is from the June 2023 edition of Architecture + Design.

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