"Extremely special...": Architect Chandrakant Sompura on being awarded Padma Shri

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], January 26 (ANI): Architect Chandrakant Sompura expressed deep pride and emotion on Sunday upon being named as an awardee for the Padma Shri from the Government of India, calling it "extremely special."
Sompura reflected on the significance of the honour, noting that his grandfather, PO Sompura, who designed the revived Somnath Mandir, was also conferred with the Padma Shri.
Sompura shared how the family's legacy in temple design spans generations, with the family involved in shaping architectural landmarks and mentioned that his work on the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was particularly meaningful, as it represents a continuation of the family's long-standing contributions to temple architecture.
"When you get an award from the Government of India, it is extremely special... My grandfather, PO Sompura, designed the revived Somnath Mandir and was honoured with the Padma Shri and now I have been conferred with the Padma Shri. I am feeling very good...We have been designing the temples for generations... I think we started the work of Ayodhya 40 years ago and the journey from there to today is very long," he said.
He also highlighted his extensive experience, with designs spanning notable temples, including Akshardham and temples in countries such as America, Bangkok, and Singapore. The architect also stated that his involvement in the Ram Mandir project holds a unique place in his career.
"I have designed many big temples like Akshardham, temples situated in America, Bangkok, Singapore...Designing the Ram Mandir is special for me," Sompura said.
Earlier on Saturday, the Centre announced the list of recipients for the prestigious Padma Awards with President Droupadi Murmu's approval for 139 honourees.
The list includes 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards.
Among the awardees are 23 women, and the list features 10 distinguished individuals from the Foreigners, NRI, PIO, and OCI categories, as well as 13 posthumous awardees. The recognition spans a wide array of fields, honouring exceptional contributions to the nation's progress and global standing.
The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian awards in India and are conferred in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
The awards are given in various disciplines, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service.Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field.The awards are announced on the occasion of Republic Day each year. They are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, usually around March or April. (ANI)