On 16th October 2025, the India Habitat Centre came alive with the spirit of artistic exchange and cultural harmony as H.E. Mr. João Manuel Mendes Ribeiro de Almeida, Ambassador of Portugal to India, inaugurated the exhibition “Portugal + India: Iconic Architecture and Cities.” Curated by Ar. Rajendra Kumar, the exhibition, organised in association with Camões – Portuguese Cultural Centre and the Embassy of Portugal in India, is a vibrant exploration of the architectural legacy and creative dialogue between the two nations.
“It is a great honour and pleasure to be here this evening for the inauguration of the exhibition ‘Portugal + India: Iconic Architecture and Cities.’ This remarkable showcase celebrates architectural masterpieces and the enduring spiritual and cultural dialogue between our two nations,” said Ambassador de Almeida.
Architecture as a Universal Bridge
In his remarks, the Ambassador emphasised the profound role architecture plays in today’s globalised world. “Architecture transcends boundaries, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and connects people and cities across continents,” he observed. “It speaks a universal language — one that reflects shared values, evolving identities, and creative expressions.”
The exhibition, he noted, stands as “a bridge built not just of stone and structure, but of shared imagination, artistry, and mutual respect.”
Marking 50 Years of Renewed Friendship
As 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Portugal and India, the Ambassador reflected on the deep-rooted and evolving partnership between the two countries. “This is a relationship grounded in centuries of exchange, transformation, and collaboration — from art and astronomy to craftsmanship and architecture,” he said. “Our common heritage continues to inspire us, reminding us of how dialogue between civilisations enriches both sides.”
Through this exhibition, visitors are invited to “retrace the shared past and rediscover how our architectural traditions converse with one another — from the historical to the contemporary, from sacred buildings to everyday spaces, from the grandly ornamental to the intimately personal.”
Stories in Stone and Spirit
The Ambassador drew attention to how architecture narrates stories of shared heritage and transformation. “Here, we see stories in stone — from the heritage-rich north to the vibrant south — alongside contemporary works that reimagine this dialogue in modern forms,” he said.
He also highlighted how creative intersections continue to define both nations: “What is the enduring legacy of Portuguese architecture in India? How has Indian architecture, in turn, influenced Portuguese design? And how do these creative intersections continue to shape our cities, our urban lives, and indeed, our identities as nations?”
Citing a significant example, he mentioned the Shah Alam Moon Centre in Lisbon, designed by the late Charles Correa, one of India’s most renowned architects. “Correa’s vision was profoundly shaped by his Indian roots,” he remarked. “Such buildings help define not only the urban life of a city but also its identity — and even that of a nation.”
Acknowledging Creative Collaboration
In his closing remarks, Ambassador de Almeida extended appreciation to all those who contributed to making the exhibition a success. “My deepest thanks to the Indian Habitat Centre, to Dr. Alka Pande, to the Ministry of External Affairs, and to all our partners and friends who supported this initiative,” he said.
He also commended the curator’s artistic leadership: “A special word of gratitude to our talented curator, Ar. Rajendra Kumar — whose creativity, vision, and deep understanding of architectural dialogue have brought this exhibition to life.”
The Ambassador further acknowledged the contributions of several distinguished architects, including Jimmy Mistry, Raj Rewal and Vistasp Bhagwagar, Vandana Saxena, Gaurav Gupta and others for their participation and creative inputs
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