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2019-onwards
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Faculty Project

2019-onwards
(42 items)

Tea and coffe sets in Ceramic ware | “Tryst with Destiny” Education Ministry’s Pavilion at Asia 72
by Prof. A Gaffoor
The tea and coffee sets in ceramic ware were one of the best projects done by Prof. Abdul Gaffoor. Ceramic design has mostly remained as a decorative art rather than a functional activity. The result is the highly decorative ceramic ware we see on the market today. The comfort aspects have hardly been improved. The tea or coffee pot with the small opening at the top remains uncomfortable for cleaning. The Iids continue to be vulnerable to breakage. The handles are difficult to handle and often break due to the weak joints with the main body. The sets are rarely stackable. Tea and coffee sets were developed to inject the idea of functionalism into the Indian ceramic market. The main features of the design are stackability, access to cleaning the spout and the introduction of a wooden lid to enhance the usage value of the set. "Tryst with Destiny" was a combined project done by Prof.S. Nadkarni, U.A. Athavankar, M. Chattopadhyay, A.G. Rao, Subodh Dhairyvan, Roby D’Solva, and Abdul Gaffoor. The Center was tasked with creating a pavilion on "Education" for the Third Asian International Trade Fair, known as Asia 72. The design efforts culminated in a presentation called "Tryst with Destiny," distinguished by its simplicity from the rest of the pavilions. The scheme depicted educational efforts at various levels in the transformation of India since Independence. The Pavilion conveyed the theme through murals, illuminated photographs, filmed interviews, a film, and a publicity programme of posters, folders, etc. Vaccum formed plastic units which could be transported easily and assembled in a short time were designed. Items like chairs, ash trays, and lamps were specially designed for the exhibition.
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Simple Phone for C-Dot | “Tryst with Destiny” Education Ministry’s Pavilion at Asia 72
by Prof. A. G. Rao
A Simple Phone for the C-Dot project was developed by Prof. A.G. Rao. C-Dot was an R & D company initiated by Dr. Sam Petroda. He had an ambitious plan for a "Telecom Revolution in India". He was well established as a technologist and entrepreneur in the U.S.A., with many patents to his credit in the telecom sector. His proposal in front of Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi was for telecom technology development in 36 months with a budget of 36 crores. He said, "Give me this budget and in three years, I will transform the telecom sector with Indian tallent," and the project was sanctioned. C.Dot was an innovative idea in telephone exchange suitable for the rural sector in India. According to Dr. Pitke, "Simple Phone will be the simplest possible digital telephone which can be useful for all purposes." A STD phone and an executive phone also need to be designed. STD phones will be used in pan-shops, etc., as service phones. Executive phones will have multiple functions, like call forward, re-dial, teleconference, etc.," "Tryst with Destiny" was a combined project done by Prof.S. Nadkarni, U.A. Athavankar, M. Chattopadhyay, A.G. Rao, Subodh Dhairyvan, Roby D’Solva, and Abdul Gaffoor. The Center was tasked with creating a pavilion on "Education" for the Third Asian International Trade Fair, known as Asia 72. The design efforts culminated in a presentation called "Tryst with Destiny," distinguished by its simplicity from the rest of the pavilions. The scheme depicted educational efforts at various levels in the transformation of India since Independence. The Pavilion conveyed the theme through murals, illuminated photographs, filmed interviews, a film, and a publicity programme of posters, folders, etc. Vaccum formed plastic units which could be transported easily and assembled in a short time were designed. Items like chairs, ash trays, and lamps were specially designed for the exhibition. A. G. Rao, B. S. Jagdish, and M. S. G. Rajan collaborated on another project called Coal Chula. A portable coal stove (chula) is traditionally made with a bucket and thick cement or mud insulation. Coal India announced a competition for engineers and designers to delve into the fundamentals of the problem. Coal India announced a competition for engineers and designers to delve into the fundamentals of the problem in the design. The design arrived at is for semi-urban use. To avoid smoke formation, the fire pot has several holes that distribute air evenly throughout the coal. The ashes can be cleaned easily as the whole bottom plate is hinged on one side, and two ducts help in getting controlled burning. To increase stability, the 'chula' is kept low in height. The unit can be made by a small industry with very little skill.
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Shenoy Innovation Studio (SIS) | Z-Line Petrol Pump | Open Design School (MHRD) | Window Mounted Solar | Low Cost Vein Tracer for blood extraction
by Prof. B. K. Chakravarthy
B.K. Chakravarthy's Shenoy Innovation Studio project's attention is directed towards disruptive as well as sustaining innovation for the development of new and futuristic products and services that will delight users. The methodologies developed in the studio apply to large industries in both the private and public sectors, as well as small-scale industries, the government sector, and the craft sector. It intervenes in the education system with the industry in a mutually beneficial collaboration. This helps to increase levels of excellence and relevance in learning, teaching, and research. Another creative project by B.K. Chakravarthy was the Z-Line petrol pump. The bulky lower half, combined with a slender top portion, ensured minimal damage of the kind to which earlier designs of fuel dispensers had been vulnerable. The hydraulics were housed in the lower half, while the electronics were housed in the upper half. High accuracy in manufacturing and a notable reduction in cost ensured that the Z-line quickly bested its competitors. The modular design with a card slot system was designed to be maintenance-friendly. As the electronics were placed above the stipulated minimum of 1.2 metres, the Z-line dispenser did not require a flame-proof junction box. Dynamic and forward-looking in appearance and gesturing towards a future of radical innovation, the Z-line became a key icon of Indian roadways in those times. The Open Design Schools (MHRD) project's objective is to extend the reach of Design Innovation education through a combination of online courses and blended learning. Hence, it is a combination of MOOCS and workshop practice. The aims of the Open Design School are to bring design education to a large number of aspirants and to provide them with hands-on training in workshops all over the country under expert mentors. This experiential learning is the key to Design Innovation Pedagogy. The Window Mounted Solar Project was a thorough understanding of the specific challenges faced by users, which proved to be a turning point in this case. A window-mounted solar oven with a deceptively simple design that eliminates the need for a conventional oven. Some of its benefits are: it preserves nutrition; slow cooking means tastier food; it is cheaper than the costly LPG fuel; it minimises danger; no electricity or flame needed and it saves fuel. The Low Cost Vein Tracer for Blood Extraction has been designed as a simple, light-weight device that humanises a simple technology (NIR Spectroscopy), helping medical practitioners easily identify the veins during vein-puncture procedures, reducing patients' trauma. Difficulty locating veins, especially in children, obese people, and people with darker skin, results in several needle pricks that cause trauma, discomfort, and injury. NIR Spectroscopy is an existing technology that can easily be applied to solve the problem, in particular. This technology can actually be used by the masses— in busy and frugally run blood camps, blood banks, small and medium sized hospitals.
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Project e-slate | Ergonomics Intervention in Traditional Brick Kiln activity
by Prof. G. G. Ray
The Project e-slate was developed by Prof. G.G. Ray. The aim is to promote self-learning by having fun with a handheld computer for the daycare home of toddlers whose parents are working as migrant construction workers. The application will have five different sections: • Initial Preparation: This section covers pattern recognition, basic colour concepts, basic geometric forms, right/left, up/down, above/below, inside/outside, and so on. • Main alphabets: This section discusses Swarabarna and Banjanbarna pattern recognition, as well as their writing strokes. •'Barakhadi’ : This section deals with the use of ‘Matras’ (swarabarna) adjacent to the Banjanbarna. •'Anka’ (Mathematics) : This portion deals with the numerical characters and their meaning with suitable examples. • "Goshthi Katha": A section describing story telling based on Indian children's stories, including Ishap's. The Ergonomics Intervention in Traditional Brick Kiln Activity Project by Prof. G.G. Ray attempts to address the drudgery of the workers engaged in traditional brick kiln. There are all together six different stages in traditional brick making namely, 1) Soil preparation and mud making, 2) Brick moulding, 3) Transfer of raw bricks to the kiln, 4) Stacking of raw bricks for firing, 5) Firing of raw bricks, 6) Removal of fired (red) bricks from the kiln. The objective of the project is to improve human efficiency, safety, and occupational health by innovating new concepts in tools and methods. It is observed that to make a final red brick from raw earth, a male worker needs an average of 4 min and 7 kcal of human energy, while those for a female worker are about 5 min and 10 kcal, respectively.
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Ek Mukta | Jaini
by Prof. Girish Dalvi
Ek Mukta is a modern, versatile, and elegant typeface designed by Prof. Girish Dalvi, a faculty member at the Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay. The typeface is part of a larger family of fonts created to address the need for a contemporary, open-source Indian typeface that supports multiple Indian languages. The Ek Mukta typeface is notable for its readability, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal, making it widely used for both print and digital media. Ek Mukta is an open-source font, which means it is freely available for use by the public and can be modified and redistributed under the appropriate license. This has made it popular in both academic and professional settings. The typeface supports multiple Indian scripts, including Devanagari, Gurmukhi, and Gujarati, making it a valuable resource for a diverse range of languages and users. It provides consistency across scripts, helping users create harmonious multilingual documents and designs. Ek Mukta is a significant contribution by Prof. Girish Dalvi to the world of typography, providing a modern, accessible, and versatile typeface that supports the unique linguistic and cultural needs of India while also being a useful tool in global design contexts.
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Vapour Jet Boiler | "Tryst with Destiny” Education Ministry’s Pavilion at Asia 72
by Prof. M Chattopadhyay
The Vapour Jet Project by Prof. M. Chattopadhyay, the unit used by big hotels and industries for cleaning utensils, etc., had the hang-over of the image of the boilers which the company manufactures. The main effort of the designer has been to create an image appropriate for the hotel's use. The sheet metal body incorporates all working elements, including plumbing and wiring inside. The unit is currently in production and is being exported to a number of countries."Tryst with Destiny" was a combined project done by Prof.S. Nadkarni, U.A. Athavankar, M. Chattopadhyay, A.G. Rao, Subodh Dhairyvan, Roby D’Solva, and Abdul Gaffoor. The Center was tasked with creating a pavilion on "Education" for the Third Asian International Trade Fair, known as Asia 72. The design efforts culminated in a presentation called "Tryst with Destiny," distinguished by its simplicity from the rest of the pavilions. The scheme depicted educational efforts at various levels in the transformation of India since Independence. The Pavilion conveyed the theme through murals, illuminated photographs, filmed interviews, a film, and a publicity programme of posters, folders, etc. Vaccum formed plastic units which could be transported easily and assembled in a short time were designed. Items like chairs, ash trays, and lamps were specially designed for the exhibition. The next project, called Light Weight Bus, is also a joint project by U.A. Athavankar, M. Chattopadhyay, S.S. Gurujee, M.S.G. Rajan. Weight of the bus can play a crucial role in the fuel consumption. The design of a light-weight bus body was taken up by a team of designers in response to a competition. Studies revealed interesting facts about the present design. The gusset-plates and screws weight as much as 30% of the structure in the present design. The new design employs FRP frames with aluminium coverings, which reduces weight by 500 kg. The luggage area is brought down to increase the stability. The project stands as a good inter-disciplinary project between structural engineers and industrial designers, displaying the potential of team work in an institute with various disciplines.
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Redesign of Immunisation Card
by Prof. Mandar Rane
Redesign of the immunisation card by Prof. Mandar Rane. The Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP), run by the Government of India, makes essential immunisation available for free to children between the ages of 0 to 5 years. The mother and child protection card that contains demographic and health information as well as the immunisation status of a child is an important part of UIP. For every child immunised under this program, there exists a home-based physical record as well as a clinic-side copy of the same. The language, content, and design of the immunisation card vary from state to state. Analysis of immunisation cards from three states—Bihar, Gujarat, and Maharashtra as well as contextual inquiries conducted at a primary healthcare centre in Mumbai revealed several issues faced by three types of stakeholders in the immunisation process: healthcare service providers, parents, and caregivers of the child. Surveyors and policy-makers also rely on information from such cards for gathering data about the population. The redesigned card addresses problems of comprehension, the needs of various stakeholders while entering and retrieving data, and practical issues such as the durability of the immunisation card.
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The Photographer The reality of imagination | Success story of Navi Mumbai Film on the sanitation project | Traditional Indian Art and Animation in India Exploring the roots for an Indian style
by Prof. Mazhar Kamran
The Photographer and The Reality of Imagination projects were done by Prof. Mazhar Kamran. With the mystic poems of Rumi working as dialogues that the characters speak, "The Photographer" is a film that explores the realm of imagination and what it means to a person who, in order to create, lives much of the time on the boundary between the real and the imagined. The story is about a photographer who shoots a model one day, and it turns out she is visible only to him. He had walked into another time. "The Photographer" had its premiere on the Foundation Day of the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune. It was shown internationally at the Cannes Film Festival, Short Film Corner. The second project of Prof. Mazhar Kamran was the success story of Navy Mumbai Film on the Sanitation Project. Clean water and sanitation is a sustainable development goal of UN. To communicate the difference that modern sanitation methods can make to a city’s water and sanitation needs, the film presents the "success story" of Navi Mumbai in this context. Taking a cinematic approach, the film communicates without commentary or interviews, relying purely on visuals and sounds, with minimal text. The film was commissioned by the Asian Development Bank Institute, Tokyo. It will be used for advocacy and leadership-building programmes of ADBI. Another project of Prof. Mazhar Kamran was Traditional Indian Art and Animation in India Exploring the roots of an Indian style On the one hand, we have a rich heritage of traditional Indian art forms that are rooted in the different regions. They embody the culture of the people. The colours, the shapes and forms are distinct, and they tell equally rich stories of the people. On the other hand, we have a contemporary medium, Animation, born in modern times, it has roots in an industrial environment which is increasingly technology-driven. Between these two is a gulf, a rich space full of creative possibilities. What the research seeks to do is study this space systematically and formulate key concepts and ideas in this space. It seeks to articulate and codify all that is involved in the transformation of an art form from one tradition, one origin, into another, more contemporary form. The study will also reflect upon the issues—social, ethical, and aesthetic—that crop up when such a transformation happens.
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Tricycle for Paraplegics
by Prof. Nishant Sharma
The Tricycle for Paraplegics project was done by Prof. Nishant Sharma. In India, around ten million people are mobility disabled. They lead under privileged livelihood. This hand tricycle is the result of our efforts towards paraplegic population and provides them with an attractive and self- reliant mobility solution. We have designed this human-powered mobility vehicle which is Light Weight, Modular and Weatherproof. The tricycle offers dual handles for pedalling action to gain higher initial torque and has capability to climb up slopes and move in undulated terrains. Its ergonomic design makes it user friendly in terms of visibility, accessibility, peddling, gear shifting, braking etc. It has added features like seat-adjustability for reach, comfortable footrest with strapping, luggage box and seat belt. We have consciously worked on the image of the product and made it attractive so that the vehicle is not seen as a symbol of sympathy but as a symbol of confidence.
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Bamboo E-bike | Ragaaz | Lotus Bamboo Drone
by Prof. P Kumaresan
The Bamboo E-bike project by P. Kumaresan is designed to incorporate the structural dynamicity of Bamboo. The primary structure is made of a hollow rectangular mild steel section with seating and other support structures made out of bamboo strips. A rear wheel hub motor is used along with essential components enclosed in a section of elephant bamboo under the frame. In the Ragaaz project, his focus was to have a simple flow and yet elegant form, which is honest yet edgy. Ragaaz is a bass guitar made entirely out of bamboo and wood. The body is made out of bamboo strips using coiling techniques, which gives it transparency in the design, also making it light in weight. The neck of the guitar is made of hollow bamboo and teak wood. Another successful project of his was the Lotus Bamboo Drone. India has a rich heritage of bamboo baskets. These baskets are used everywhere because of their versatility and low cost. Utilizing the qualities of such structures, the Lotus Bamboo drone is very flexible and increases the endurance of the drone from falls. Overall weight is also reduced due to the lightness of the material. And the next project was Comet-W87. Comet-W87 is a futuristic guitar design. It houses a 6mm output along with a 3.5mm output jack for "Silent Jamming Sessions". The ‘FAN Fret’ design is backed by an ergonomically designed neck and body to provide the musician with maximum comfort while playing. It is also capable of emitting music via an FM channel. The FM muddle comes in a variety of ranges according to your audience’s requirements.
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Art @IITB | National Salt Satyagraha Memorial Dandi | Learning from Nature and from the Indigenous Collaborative project with Bidyut Roy and Sandeep Manchekar | Understanding visual art traditions Collaborative projects with practitioners of indigenous art traditions
by Prof. Raja Mohanty
Prof. Raja Mohanty’s one of the best projects was Art @ IITB. IIT Bombay’s vision is to be a leading global technology university that provides a transformative educational experience to create leaders and innovators and generate new knowledge for society and industry". The arts enrich our aesthetic imagination and help to shape how we perceive ourselves and our surroundings. A visible display of works on the IIT Bombay campus that combine technical and artistic creativity could aid in the integration of education. This project envisaged a road-map for arts education at IIT Bombay that includes the creation of traditional and contemporary works of art on the campus; residencies, seminars, and talks by visiting artists; and mentorship to encourage students to develop an aesthetic sensibility. His other important project was the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial, Dandi. This memorial to the 80 marchers who accompanied Gandhi in upholding "Right against Might" was conceptualised by Prof. Kriti Trivedi. The beginning of an engagement with handloom weaving is an interesting "side effect" of this memorial. In 2019, Shivani Nayak, one of the graduating students from IDC School of Design, wove her own convocation scarf. The weaving initiative encourages more students to do the same. Learning from Nature and from the Indigenous Collaborative Project with Bidyut Roy and Sandeep Manchekkar project was a residency space for visiting faculty was created at Wighavali using local materials such as bamboo, mud, fired bricks, traditional terracotta tiles, and dried pipal leaves. This space is envisaged as an extension of classroom walls to spaces outside cities that enables students to come into contact with alternate realities and learn from indigenous ways of doing things and from nature. Raja Mohanty’s other important project was Understanding Visual Art Traditions. collaborative projects with practitioners of indigenous art traditions. The traditions studied included patachitra art from Orissa; Gond art from Madhya Pradesh; Madhubani from Bihar; and Pichhwai from Rajasthan. Collaborative projects took the shape of books for children and "grown-up" children! Ghanshyam Sharma from Nathdwara, Radhashyam Raut from Bhubaneswar, Durgabai, and Mansingh Vyam from Bhopal, and Sharwan Paswan from Mithila were the artists with whom the collaborative projects were done. "The Circle of Fate" published by Tara Books, Chennai, was shortlisted for the Anderson Prize, 2009. "The Enigma of Karma" was a sequel to this. "Machaan Masti", "On Inheritance", and "Cycle Ka Sapna" are some of the other learning materials for children that were created as the collaboration continued as a part of the Damroo Project, funded by the Navajbai Ratan Tata Trust.
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Hospital Graphics
by Prof. Ravi Poovaiah
Hospital Graphics project was designed by Prof. Ravi Poovaiah. The design of hospital graphics involved participatory involvement of the user group at every stage of the design process. The graphics were meant for public hospitals in India.
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Street Furniture for CIDCO | Trade Exhibition at Moscow | “Tryst with Destiny” Education Ministry’s Pavilion at Asia 72
by Prof. S Nadkarni
The street furniture for the CIDCO project was developed by Prof. S. Nadkarni. Simple street furniture was designed for the New Bombay Programme of the City Indutrial Development Corporation. All the items designed have a simple construction with bold, clear graphic information. Another important project of Prof. S. Nadkarni was the Trade Exhibition in Moscow. The Indian Trade Exhibition at Mascow was undertaken for the Trade Fair Authority of India. The exhibition to be transported from Bombay in total had many challenging structural and organisational problems. The theme pavilion was designed to depict Indian cultural values. "Tryst with Destiny" was a combined project done by Prof.S. Nadkarni, U.A. Athavankar, M. Chattopadhyay, A.G. Rao, Subodh Dhairyvan, Roby D’Solva, and Abdul Gaffoor. The Center was tasked with creating a pavilion on "Education" for the Third Asian International Trade Fair, known as Asia 72. The design efforts culminated in a presentation called "Tryst with Destiny," distinguished by its simplicity from the rest of the pavilions. The scheme depicted educational efforts at various levels in the transformation of India since Independence. The Pavilion conveyed the theme through murals, illuminated photographs, filmed interviews, a film, and a publicity programme of posters, folders, etc. Vaccum formed plastic units which could be transported easily and assembled in a short time were designed. Items like chairs, ash trays, and lamps were specially designed for the exhibition.
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Boundaries of Memory
by Prof. Sudesh Balan
Prof. Sudesh Balan's project was The Boundaries of Memories. Boundaries of Memory is a short fictional film about an elderly person’s search for a son, whose name is resonating in his fading memory. This film is a part of academic research on making cost-effective films for delivering social messages without losing cinematic value. Unlike a traditional joint family, current nuclear families lack the much needed human infrastructure for nursing senior citizens at home. The movie is set in the southern state of Kerala, where many younger members of the family migrate abroad for better job prospects. The movie was selected in the Panorama Section at the 47th International Film Festival of India, Goa.
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VEMA Virtual Experiential Museum on Ajanta | The Climate Change Project
by Prof. Sumant Rao
The VEMA Virtual Experiential Museum on Ajanta was the project of Prof. Sumant Rao. Digital technologies like VR,AR, touchscreen displays, 3D scanning, photogrammetry, multiproject audiovisuals, holography, smart devices, and HMDs offer phenomenal tools, creating the possibility of experiencing any heritage monument offsite. VEMA explores this potential with the Ajanta Caves. Using a tablet, in the Virtual Tourist Zone, one can fly like a bird around a 3D site and explore the caves. In the Art zone, you can learn about Ajanta art by watching the digitally restored Simhala Avadana on the large video wall, iconic images and material culture on the touch-interactive small video walls, and paintings come to life in the AR painting gallery. In the Architecture zone, head-mounted displays transport you to the caves and a holographic display showcases stupas, shrines, pillars etc. The explore zone has large kiosks with which you can explore the site, the caves, and the narrative paintings of Ajanta to a greater depth. The Climate Change Project was another important project of Prof. Sumant Rao. An interactive presentation on global warming for children, with a focus on the Indian context. An interactive presentation on climate change, where the presenter tells of his journey around India to understand the perplexing changes happening there. He is joined by a snow leopard cub from the Himalayas, a coastal village girl from Orissa, an orphan boy from Andhra Pradesh, a sea horse from Lakshadweep and a dog from Mumbai, and they figure out the reasons behind the melting glaciers, rising sea level, roughts, flooding, bleaching of corals and rise of certain diseases—increasing green house gases that each of them experienced. During the telling of the story, the presenter interacts with both his animated friends in the story as well as the young audience, creating a unique and interesting learning experience.
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Edugame | “Tryst with Destiny” Education Ministry’s Pavilion at Asia 72
by Prof. U A Athavankar
Edugame was the project of Prof. U.A. Athavankar. The teaching of agriculture discipline to the tribal people is the theme of the Edugame, which won an international award in the Edugame International competition held in Israel. The game gives the players a problem (like if you have a broken plough) and they have to solve it using the money provided by the bank. The importance of the agricultural cycle is stressed in the game. If a player does not finish sowing in 10 moves (1 day), a red signal will come to make him stay there till the next sowing season comes. 3 to 4 children can play it at a time. It would be ideal for teachers to use it as an aid. Another important project jointly done by Prof. U.A. Athavankar, M. Chattophadhay, S. S. Gurujee, and M. S. G. Rajan was the Light Weight Bus. The weight of the bus can play a crucial role in its fuel consumption. The design of a light-weight bus body was taken up by a team of designers in response to a competition. Studies revealed interesting facts about the present design. The gusset-plates and screws weigh as much as 30% of the structure in the present design. The new design employs FRP frames with aluminium coverings, which reduces weight by 500 kg. The luggage area is brought down to increase the stability. The project stands as a good inter-disciplinary project between structural engineers and industrial designers, displaying the potential of team work in an institute with various disciplines. "Tryst with Destiny" was a combined project done by Prof.S. Nadkarni, U.A. Athavankar, M. Chattopadhyay, A.G. Rao, Subodh Dhairyvan, Roby D’Solva, and Abdul Gaffoor. The Center was tasked with creating a pavilion on "Education" for the Third Asian International Trade Fair, known as Asia 72. The design efforts culminated in a presentation called "Tryst with Destiny," distinguished by its simplicity from the rest of the pavilions. The scheme depicted educational efforts at various levels in the transformation of India since Independence. The Pavilion conveyed the theme through murals, illuminated photographs, filmed interviews, a film, and a publicity programme of posters, folders, etc. Vaccum formed plastic units which could be transported easily and assembled in a short time were designed. Items like chairs, ash trays, and lamps were specially designed for the exhibition.
Details >>

Interactive Data Visualization and Analysis of Election Results
by Prof. Venkatesh Rajamanickam
Interactive Data Visualization and Analysis of Election Results was the project of Prof. Venkatesh Rajamanickam. Starting from 2016 to 2019, the project explored the presentation and analysis of election results through a series of interactive data visualizations. The objective was not only to explain phenomena through visual representation of information, but also to discover new insights and new meanings through visual exploration of information. Affordances of the medium, devices of delivery, data iteracy of audiences, use of regional languages, etc., were taken up for inquiry. Some of the visualisations were widely disseminated through popular publications and written up as academic papers.
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Sigma III foil sealing machine | Forklift Truck for Voltas India Ltd
by Prof. Vijay Bapat
The Sigma III foil sealing machine was the project of Prof. Vijay Bapat. Sigma III Touch Cap Seal’ is a Pacmachine Award (2012) winning project where the challenge was to redesign the form of the new generation of foil sealers launched by Electronic Devices,Mumbai. The old sealing machine form was susceptible to being misused for keeping sundry things, making it prone to accidents. The sloping forward sealer body improved the aesthetic appeal by making it look dynamic. The whole assembled machine was packed in wooden crates, resulting in expensive packaging for export to other countries. A modular design approach was taken to shift to paper corrugated box packaging. Due to this design approach, we could achieve a substantial weight reduction from 140 kg to 80 kg and freight costs reduced to $300 from $1250 as the packing and transportation have become simple. Showing how form can improve function and reduce costs, Sigma III has been appreciated even at international design platforms like the IF exhibition. Another important project by Prof. Vijay Bapat was the forklift truck for Voltas India Ltd. Due to heavy competition from Korean and Japanese fork-lift trucks, the forklift truck division of Voltas was losing its leadership position in the diesel fork-lift market. The challenge was to achieve an international aesthetic look without changing the internal components. The major design contribution is a footboard visible from the top level that improves the operator’s comfort in climbing down. The red model shows the design improvements with half a tonnes of weight savings, achieved due to a 150 mm lower west-line. With improved fuel efficiency and increased speed, the company could position the product as a premier truck. The improved aesthetics and user comfort without changing the basic chassis, helped the company recapture local as well as foreign markets. This design is going strong in the market even today.
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National Salt Satyagraha Memorial at Dandi
by Prof. Kriti Trivedi, Prof. Raja Mohanty, Prof. B. K. Chakravarthy & Prof. Shilpa Ranade
The National Salt Satyagraha Memorial at Dandi, Gujarat, was created to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's iconic Salt March of 1930. Several faculty members from IDC IIT Bombay—Prof. Kriti Trivedi, Prof. Raja Mohanty, Prof. B. K. Chakravarthy, and Prof. Shilpa Ranade—played significant roles in the conceptualisation and design of this memorial. Their collective efforts aimed to create a space that not only honours the historical event but also offers an immersive experience to visitors through the integration of art, storytelling, and technology.
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Lightweight palanquine for Vaishno Devi
by Prof. B. K. Chakravarthy
One of the most well-known pilgrimage destinations in India, Vaishno Devi, is the target audience for an inventive lightweight palanquin that was created by Prof. B. K. Chakravarthy of IDC IIT Bombay, especially for the pilgrims. The design's main goal was to provide a lightweight, safe, and ergonomic substitute for conventional aeroplanes, which are frequently unwieldy and uncomfortable for both passengers and bearers. The pallet is far easier to carry than conventional wooden allets because it was made with lightweight, strong materials like aluminium or composites. The palanquin's ergonomic shape guarantees the comfort of both the bearers and the pilgrim being carried. 
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Inclusive interaction design patterns for visually impaired, with Tata Consultancy Services
by Prof. Anirudha Joshi
The project on Inclusive Interaction Design patterns for the visually impaired by Prof. Anirudha Joshi from IDC IIT Bombay, in collaboration with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), focusses on creating digital interfaces that are accessible and usable for people with visual impairments. The goal is to identify common patterns in the design of interfaces that cater to the needs of visually impaired users, ensuring inclusivity in technology.
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Three-wheeled electric delivery vehicle, with Strom Motors
by Prof. Sugandh Malhotra
The three-wheeled electric delivery vehicle, developed by Prof. Sugandh Malhotra from IDC IIT Bombay in collaboration with Strom Motors, is designed to cater to the growing demand for sustainable and efficient urban delivery solutions. This vehicle aims to address the needs of last-mile delivery while focussing on environmental sustainability and urban mobility challenges. The vehicle is powered by a battery-electric system, providing a zero-emission alternative to traditional delivery vehicles. The three-wheeled configuration allows for better manoeuvrability in congested urban environments, making it ideal for city deliveries. The vehicle is optimised for carrying light to moderate cargo, suited for e-commerce, groceries, and other urban delivery services.
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Live virtual convocation for IIT Bombay & Recreation of the ceremony and animations for around 2000 students with their avatars
by Prof. Sumant Rao
The live virtual convocation for IIT Bombay, organised by Prof. Sumant Rao from IDC IITB, was an innovative solution to conduct the graduation ceremony during the COVID-19 pandemic. The project involved the recreation of the traditional convocation ceremony in a fully virtual environment, allowing around 2000 students to participate remotely. The ceremony included real-time animations of the avatars, with degrees being conferred in the same manner as in a traditional ceremony. The virtual convocation was a testament to the creative use of technology to maintain the tradition of graduation while adapting to the constraints of the pandemic.
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Success story of Navi Mumbai, Film for Asian Development Bank Institute, Tokyo
by Prof. Mazhar Kamran
Prof. Mazhar Kamran of IDC IIT Bombay directed the film Success Story of Navi Mumbai, which was made for the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI) in Tokyo. The film highlights Navi Mumbai's planned development and expansion, a satellite metropolis built to relieve Mumbai's traffic and urban strains. It demonstrates how Navi Mumbai was envisioned and created as a planned metropolis with areas that were carefully designed for business, industry, and residential use. The movie highlights the initiatives taken to guarantee sustainable urban growth, emphasising public facilities, environmental concerns, and transit systems.
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Air purifier for NEERI
by Prof. Nishant Sharma
Prof. Nishant Sharma from IDC IIT Bombay developed an air purifier in collaboration with the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI). The project focusses on creating an efficient, cost-effective solution for improving air quality in both indoor and outdoor environments. The purifier uses advanced filtration methods to remove harmful particulates, pollutants, and toxins from the air. This technology ensures high purification efficiency while maintaining low energy consumption. It is designed with eco-friendly materials; the purifier aims to minimise its environmental impact. It is also built for durability and ease of maintenance.
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Sculpture at IIT Bombay
by Prof. Raja Mohanty
The sculpture at IIT Bombay designed by Prof. Raja Mohanty from the Industrial Design Centre (IDC) is a notable artwork that reflects his deep engagement with storytelling, visual language, and artistic exploration. Prof. Mohanty, known for his expertise in illustration, book design, and the use of traditional Indian art forms, likely incorporated these influences into the sculpture's design.
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Project ArchDeck - Collaborative MR Application
by Prof. Jayesh Pillai
Project ArchDeck, led by Prof. Jayesh Pillai at IDC IIT Bombay, is a collaborative mixed reality (MR) application designed to enhance collaboration in architectural design and related fields. The project leverages mixed reality to create a shared environment where multiple users can interact with 3D models, designs, and spatial layouts in real-time. Multiple users can view, modify, and discuss architectural designs simultaneously, regardless of their physical location. Architects, designers, and stakeholders can visualise structures in a spatial context, enabling better understanding of scale, proportions, and design details. The use of MR allows users to experience designs as if they were physically present, enhancing decision-making and creative discussions.
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ScholAR project - AR in Education & Remote collaboration in AR
by Prof. Jayesh Pillai
The ScholAR project led by Prof. Jayesh Pillai at IDC IIT Bombay focusses on integrating augmented reality (AR) into education and enhancing remote collaboration through AR technology. ScholAR aims to revolutionise how students interact with educational content, making learning more immersive and interactive. By overlaying digital information on real-world environments, AR helps visualise complex concepts, enhancing engagement and understanding. The project also emphasises remote collaboration in AR, allowing students, educators, and professionals to collaborate in shared virtual spaces despite being geographically separated. This opens up new possibilities for virtual labs, interactive discussions, and hands-on learning experiences without physical proximity. AR’s potential in remote collaboration extends to real-time annotation, 3D visualisations, and interactive sessions, facilitating teamwork and problem-solving in a dynamic, virtual environment.
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Project ‘Manhole’ Real-time VR Narrative
by Prof. Abhishek Verma & Prof. Jayesh Pillai
Project 'Manhole' is a real-time Virtual Reality (VR) narrative developed by Prof. Abhishek Verma and Prof. Jayesh Pillai at IDC IIT Bombay. This project utilises the immersive capabilities of VR to tell a compelling, socially relevant story, engaging the audience through an interactive and experiential narrative format. The project likely focusses on bringing attention to societal issues, possibly drawing from themes like sanitation workers' lives or the hazards they face, symbolised by the manhole. Real-time interaction in VR allows the viewers to step into a dynamic environment where they can engage with the narrative as it unfolds, providing an immersive way to experience the story. This kind of VR storytelling amplifies emotional engagement and empathy by placing the user in the midst of the events, offering a powerful new dimension to narrative design.
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Boat Design
by Prof. Unni Mohan Mohanan
Prof. Unni Mohan Mohanan has contributed to the design of boats, with a focus on integrating innovative and user-centric design principles. His work in boat design likely combines functionality, aesthetics, and sustainable materials, taking into account both traditional boat-building techniques and modern engineering practices. Prof. Mohanan's design approach may emphasise ergonomics, efficiency, and environmental impact, ensuring that the boats are suited for their intended environments, whether for transportation, leisure, or specific industry purposes. His background in product design would lend itself to creating boats that are not only practical and efficient but also visually appealing and comfortable for users.
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Anek multiscript variable font family
by Prof. Girish Dalvi
Anek is a multiscript variable font family designed by Prof. Girish Dalvi at IDC IIT Bombay. It is a modern, versatile typeface that supports multiple Indian scripts, aiming to unify diverse writing systems while maintaining their unique characteristics. The project aligns with the growing demand for typography solutions that accommodate the multilingual and multiscript environment of India, where users often require support for multiple languages in a single document or design. It is designed as a variable font, meaning that users can adjust properties like weight and width seamlessly across different styles, offering flexibility for a variety of applications. It supports multiple Indian scripts, including Devanagari, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu and others, making it suitable for use in diverse linguistic contexts.
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Sakshatkaaram, Malayalam short fiction film
by Prof. Sudesh Balan
Sakshatkaaram is a Malayalam short fiction film directed by Prof. Sudesh Balan, a faculty member at IDC IIT Bombay. The film delves into human emotions and inner realisations, exploring themes of self-discovery and personal transformation. Like much of Prof. Balan's work, it likely features a reflective narrative, focussing on subtle yet powerful storytelling techniques. Prof. Balan is known for his expertise in visual storytelling, and his approach in Sakshatkaaram might include innovative use of camera work, visual metaphors, and symbolism, typical of his design philosophy. The film likely emphasises character-driven narratives and emotionally resonant themes, aligning with his broader interests in communication design and cinematic expression.
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Voice-based netbanking for the elderly, with Bank of Baroda
by Prof. Anirudha Joshi
The Voice-based Netbanking for the Elderly project, led by Prof. Anirudha Joshi, IDC IITB, in collaboration with Bank of Baroda, aims to make digital banking more accessible to senior citizens. Recognising that many elderly users face challenges with conventional online banking interfaces due to difficulties with technology, the project seeks to offer a more intuitive and user-friendly solution through voice interaction. The banking system is designed to be navigated via voice commands, making it easier for elderly users who may not be comfortable with traditional touchscreen or text-based inputs. Common banking tasks like checking balances, transferring money, or paying bills can be accomplished through simple, guided voice interactions.
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Learning English Through Stories
by Prof. Alka Hingorani
"Learning English Through Stories" by Prof. Alka Hingorani focusses on using narrative techniques to teach the English language in a more engaging and accessible manner. The approach emphasises storytelling as a medium for language acquisition, helping learners develop linguistic skills through context, emotion, and imagination rather than just conventional methods like grammar rules or vocabulary lists. By immersing students in stories, the program fosters comprehension, listening, and speaking skills, making it easier for learners to relate to and remember language concepts.
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Uniform Design for BSF Mahila Motorcycle Riders for the Republic Day Parade
by Prof. Kanika Jolly
The Uniform Design for BSF Mahila Motorcycle Riders for the Republic Day Parade by Prof. Kanika Jolly was a specialised design project aimed at enhancing both functionality and aesthetics for the Border Security Force (BSF) women riders. The design considered the rigorous physical demands of the motorcycle stunt performances while incorporating cultural and symbolic elements reflective of national pride. The uniform was crafted to balance safety, mobility, and comfort, ensuring that the riders could perform with ease during the high-profile event. Prof. Jolly's work focused on integrating modern design with traditional values, making the riders stand out during the Republic Day Parade.
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New Sansad Bhawan Security Officers’ Uniforms
by Prof. Kanika Jolly
The New Sansad Bhawan Security Officers’ Uniforms designed by Prof. Kanika Jolly aimed to create a modern and functional aesthetic for security personnel at the Indian Parliament. The design focused on comfort, durability, and professional appearance, incorporating materials suitable for varied weather conditions and demanding physical tasks. The uniforms likely featured distinct elements that reflected the authority and responsibility of the security officers while also promoting a sense of national pride. Prof. Jolly's approach would have emphasised both practicality and visual impact, ensuring the uniforms met the needs of the officers while presenting a polished image to the public.
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Uniform design for Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) – PRO cell
by Prof. Kanika Jolly
The Uniform Design for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) PRO Cell by Prof. Kanika Jolly was focused on creating a distinctive and functional uniform tailored specifically for the Public Relations Officers within the CRPF. The uniform was designed to convey authority and professionalism, making the PROs easily recognisable in public engagements. Emphasis was placed on selecting materials that provide comfort for long hours of wear while allowing ease of movement, particularly during interactions with the public and media. The design likely included strategically placed pockets for carrying communication devices, documents, and other essential tools required for their role. Incorporating elements that reflect the values and traditions of the CRPF fosters a sense of pride among the officers.
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Feature film in Hindi 90 minutes
by Prof. Mazhar Kamran
The feature film in Hindi by Prof. Mazhar Kamran, approximately 90 minutes long, typically reflects his storytelling approach, often focussing on social issues, human emotions, and cultural narratives. While specific details about this film might not be widely available, his works generally aim to engage audiences with thought-provoking themes and relatable characters.
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Story Books
by Prof. Raja Moahnty
Prof. Raja Mohanty, known for his work in storytelling, illustration, and bookmaking, has authored and illustrated several storybooks that often blend traditional Indian folklore with contemporary themes. His storybooks are notable for their artistic approach, merging rich illustrations with compelling narratives. His stories often draw from Indian folklore, mythology, and cultural traditions, bringing ancient tales to life in modern contexts. As an artist and illustrator, Prof. Mohanty's books are visually rich, using illustrations to enhance the storytelling experience and engage readers of all ages.
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Posters for 18th Cheongju Jikji World Calligraphy Exhibition, Korea & South Asia Design Educators Alliance(SADED), Exhibition, USA
by Prof. G. V. Sreekumar
Prof. G. V. Sreekumar designed posters for two notable exhibitions: the 18th Cheongju Jikji World Calligraphy Exhibition, Korea, and the South Asia Design Educators Alliance (SADEA) Exhibition, USA. 18th Cheongju Jikji World Calligraphy Exhibition, Korea: The design for this exhibition poster likely embraced the aesthetics of calligraphy, combining traditional elements with modern design principles. South Asia Design Educators Alliance (SADEA) Exhibition, USA: The poster for this exhibition would have reflected design education and collaboration between South Asia and global design communities.
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Curriculum Development for Design Thinking and Innovation in Schools from Grade 6 -12
by Prof. Ravi Poovaiah
The Curriculum Development for Design Thinking and Innovation in Schools from Grade 6–12 by Prof. Ravi Poovaiah from IDC IITB focusses on integrating design thinking into school education to foster creativity, problem-solving, and innovation among students. This curriculum is aimed at helping young learners develop critical thinking and hands-on skills that prepare them for real-world challenges. Teaching students the principles of design thinking, including empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing, in a simplified and engaging manner. Encouraging students to apply these principles through hands-on projects where they can create solutions to real-world problems relevant to their communities or environments.
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Calligraphy for Kala Ghoda Festival, Mumbai
by Prof. G. V. Sreekumar
The Calligraphy for the Kala Ghoda Festival, Mumbai, by Prof. G. V. Sreekumar, was likely a creative endeavour where he brought his expertise in typography and calligraphy to this iconic cultural festival. The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is known for its celebration of arts, crafts, and culture, and Prof. Sreekumar's work would have added a rich visual element to the event. Prof. Sreekumar likely combined traditional Indian scripts with contemporary design aesthetics, creating visually compelling calligraphy pieces that resonated with the festival's diverse audience.
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2009-2018
(16 items)

Design of the Indian Rupee Sign
by Udaya Kumar
The Indian Rupee Sign was designed by Udaya Kumar Dharmalingam, an associate professor at the Department of Design; he holds a PhD in Design from IIT Bombay and is currently a professor at IIT Guwahati. His design was selected in 2010 after a national competition was held by the Indian government to create a symbol that would represent the Indian currency globally, similar to the US dollar, British pound, and euro. The introduction of this symbol was a significant step in giving India a unique identity in the international financial community. The design of the Indian rupee sign is a combination of Devanagari script and the Roman alphabet. The symbol is derived from the Devanagari letter (Ra), representing "Rupiya" in Indian languages, and also bears a strong resemblance to the Latin letter "R," which links it to the Roman script. This fusion of scripts reflects India’s linguistic diversity and bridges the country’s ancient heritage with its modern, global identity. The two parallel horizontal lines at the top of the symbol convey the stability of the Indian economy. This design of the Indian rupee sign has since become an iconic representation of India's modern financial system, blending its rich tradition with the aspirations of a rapidly growing economy.
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Mumbai Rail Map (MRM)
by Prof. Mandar Rane
The Mumbai Rail Map (MRM) is a significant project designed by Prof. Mandar Rane from the Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay. The map was created to simplify and enhance the experience of navigating the complex railway network of Mumbai, one of the busiest public transportation systems in the world. Prof. Rane’s design provides a clear, easy-to-read, and aesthetically appealing representation of Mumbai’s intricate railways, helping millions of commuters better understand and use the system efficiently. The Mumbai railway network is spread over three major lines: Western, Central, and Harbour. Navigating these lines can be confusing, especially for new or occasional users. The Mumbai Rail Map distils this complex information into a clean, organised visual format. The map uses colour-coded lines for the different railway routes (Western Line, Central Line, Harbour Line, and Trans-Harbour Line), making it easier for commuters to identify and follow their respective routes. Prof. Rane’s design ensures that the text and symbols are legible and accessible to a wide range of users, including those with visual impairments. The use of contrasting colours and bold typefaces ensures clarity in various lighting conditions and from different viewing distances.
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Supporting Treatment of People Living with HIV / AIDS in Resource Limited Settings with IVRs
by Prof. Anirudha Joshi
The project "Supporting Treatment of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Resource-Limited Settings with IVRs" was led by Prof. Anirudha Joshi from the Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay. The project focusses on using Interactive Voice Response (IVR) technology to provide support to people living with HIV/AIDS in resource-constrained environments, where access to healthcare infrastructure and medical support may be limited. IVR (Interactive Voice Response) is a technology that allows users to interact with a system through voice commands and key presses. In this project, IVR was used to provide automated voice-based support to people living with HIV/AIDS. The IVR system was designed to be multilingual, offering support in local languages to ensure that patients could understand the information provided. This was crucial in regions where multiple languages are spoken and literacy rates may be low. The project involved close collaboration with local healthcare providers and NGOs working with HIV/AIDS patients. This ensured that the system was tailored to the specific needs of the patient population and integrated with existing healthcare services.
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Ek Mukta
by Girish Dalvi
Ek Mukta is a modern, versatile, and elegant typeface designed by Prof. Girish Dalvi, a faculty member at the Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay. The typeface is part of a larger family of fonts created to address the need for a contemporary, open-source Indian typeface that supports multiple Indian languages. The Ek Mukta typeface is notable for its readability, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal, making it widely used for both print and digital media. Ek Mukta is an open-source font, which means it is freely available for use by the public and can be modified and redistributed under the appropriate license. This has made it popular in both academic and professional settings. The typeface supports multiple Indian scripts, including Devanagari, Gurmukhi, and Gujarati, making it a valuable resource for a diverse range of languages and users. It provides consistency across scripts, helping users create harmonious multilingual documents and designs. Ek Mukta is a significant contribution by Prof. Girish Dalvi to the world of typography, providing a modern, accessible, and versatile typeface that supports the unique linguistic and cultural needs of India while also being a useful tool in global design contexts.
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Goopi Gawaiya Bagha Bajaiya - Animation Film
by Shilpa Ranade
"Goopi Gawaiya Bagha Bajaiya" is an animated feature film directed by Prof. Shilpa Ranade from the Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay. The film, released in 2013, is an adaptation of the iconic children's story "Goopi Gyne Bagha Byne," written by Upendra Kishore Roychowdhury, and it was famously adapted into a live-action film by Satyajit Ray in 1969. Prof. Ranade's animated version brings a fresh and visually rich take on the classic tale, introducing it to a new generation of audiences while preserving its cultural significance. Prof. Shilpa Ranade’s version of the film is distinguished by its hand-drawn 2D animation, giving the film a unique, painterly aesthetic that sets it apart from modern 3D animated films. The animation reflects traditional Indian art styles, blending folk art influences with contemporary storytelling techniques. The colour palette and character designs are inspired by Indian culture, particularly drawing from Bengali and rural Indian visual traditions. The characters are quirky, exaggerated, and expressive, fitting the whimsical and fantastical tone of the story. The film was widely praised for its innovative animation style and the way it reimagined a beloved classic for contemporary audiences. It was selected for several prestigious international film festivals, including the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the New York International Children’s Film Festival, and the Mumbai Film Festival.
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The Photographer & Uncle the School in himself
by Mazhar Kamran
Mazhar Kamran, renowned for his work in both fiction and documentary, directs the film The Photographer & Uncle the School within Himself. This film explores the relationship between photography and identity, blending the personal with the historical. The documentary centres around a character referred to as "Uncle," who is both the subject and the photographer, capturing images that reflect his journey and experiences. The film engages with themes of memory, identity, and the role of the photographer in framing reality. Mazhar Kamran is an Indian filmmaker and cinematographer known for his versatile contributions to both independent and mainstream cinema. A graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Kamran has carved a niche for himself in both fiction and documentary filmmaking.
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Colour Projects launched for Royal Enfield
by Prof. Kanika Jolly
Kanika is an accomplished motorcycle designer with a rich professional background. She held the role of Deputy Manager in the Industrial Design Studio at Royal Enfield Motors, Chennai, and further contributed as the motorcycle lifestyle and accessories designer at Royal Enfield Motors, Gurgaon. Kanika has also lent her creative expertise to diverse sectors, collaborating with renowned names like General Motors, TATA, RedTape, Crew BOS, and fashion designers Rahul Mishra and Shah Rukh Zaidi on various projects. Kanika graduated from the IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay, as an automotive designer. The Colour Projects launched for Royal Enfield by Prof. Kanika Jolly likely involved designing colour schemes and finishes for the iconic Royal Enfield motorcycles. These projects would focus on integrating design aesthetics with the brand’s heritage, creating colour combinations that resonate with Royal Enfield's vintage and modern motorcycle ranges.
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Lakshmi Aayi Hai - A Short Claymation Film
by Prof. Swati Agarwal
Lakshmi Aayi Hai is a short claymation film created by Prof. Swati Agarwal, who is known for her contributions to animation and storytelling through the medium of stop-motion. The film uses claymation, a technique where clay figures are animated through frame-by-frame photography, to tell its story. The film is not only an example of the creative potential of claymation but also reflects cultural and societal values through an animated format. It offers an accessible way to engage audiences, especially children, with important themes like prosperity and celebration, often linked to Indian festivals like Diwali, where the goddess Lakshmi is worshipped.
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Hum Chitra Banate Hai - Animation Film
by Prof. Nina Sabnani
Hum Chitra Banate Hai is an acclaimed animation film directed by Prof. Nina Sabnani, a renowned animator, filmmaker, and academic. The film is a beautiful fusion of animation and traditional Indian storytelling, highlighting Prof. Sabnani's interest in indigenous art forms and their integration with modern animation techniques. The title Hum Chitra Banate Hai, which translates to "We Make Images," reflects the central theme of the film: the process and significance of storytelling through images. The film is set in the Kutch region of Gujarat and revolves around the traditional craft of kaavad storytelling, a form of visual storytelling that uses painted wooden panels to narrate mythological and folk tales. The film combines hand-drawn animation with live-action sequences, blending traditional art forms with modern animation techniques. The film has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of the lives and work of traditional artisans and for raising awareness about the importance of preserving indigenous art forms.
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Jellow Communicator
by Prof. Ravi Poovaiah
Jellow Communicator is an innovative communication tool designed to assist individuals with speech and language disabilities, particularly those with conditions such as cerebral palsy, autism, and developmental disabilities. The project was spearheaded by Professor Ravi Poovaiah and Dr. Ajanta Sen. The journey of Jellow started in 2004 as a tangible physical product. Following this, in 2008, it was made available on desktops. Then, after extensive user studies, it was conceived as a complete communication system available on a variety of platforms. Jellow has been supported by IIT Bombay, the e-kalpa project from the Ministry of Human Resources and Development, the Innovation Fund Award from Unicef, the National Trust, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Nair Hospital, and the University of Connecticut, USA, along with several NGO's working in the field of persons with disabilities. Jellow Communicator utilises a symbol-based communication system, making it accessible to individuals with limited verbal communication abilities. It consists of a grid of symbols representing various words, phrases, and actions. Users can customise the communication grids based on their specific needs and preferences.
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Maacher Jhol - Animation Film
by Prof. Abhishek Verma
Maacher Jhol is a critically acclaimed animated short film directed by Prof. Abhishek Verma, known for his socially relevant storytelling through animation. The film focusses on LGBTQ+ themes and is celebrated for its sensitive portrayal of identity, acceptance, and familial relationships. Maacher Jhol explores themes of acceptance, love, and identity. It deals with the struggle many LGBTQ+ individuals face when coming out to their families, particularly in traditional societies where such topics are often considered taboo. The film subtly conveys the fear, anxiety, and courage required to express one’s true self to family members while also addressing the power of food and culture as a medium of connection. The film uses 2D hand-drawn animation combined with a minimalistic yet expressive visual style that conveys deep emotional undertones. The characters’ movements and facial expressions are crafted to communicate the subtle tensions and unspoken emotions that occur within the family dynamic. The colour palette, influenced by the warmth of home and tradition, enhances the emotional depth of the story.
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Mumbai Transformation
by Prof. Nishant Sharma
Mumbai Transformation is a project led by Prof. Nishant Sharma, an academic and researcher with a focus on urban design and planning. The project examines the rapid urbanisation and transformation of Mumbai, one of the most densely populated cities in the world, while addressing the challenges and opportunities that arise in a megacity undergoing significant changes. Mumbai has experienced tremendous growth, resulting in infrastructural challenges such as traffic congestion, inadequate housing, and strained public services. The Mumbai Transformation project focusses on understanding these challenges and proposing innovative design and planning solutions to improve the city’s ivability. A core objective of the project is to explore how Mumbai can grow sustainably. This involves looking into efficient land use, eco-friendly transportation systems, and the integration of green spaces within the urban environment. The project advocates for a balance between development and environmental preservation.
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Trophy Design for Kala Utsav
by Prof. Sugandh Malhotra
The Trophy Design for Kala Utsav was led by Prof. Sugandh Malhotra from IDC IIT Bombay. Kala Utsav is a national initiative under the Ministry of Education, aimed at promoting the arts in school education. The design of the trophy aimed to reflect the spirit of creativity, artistic excellence, and cultural diversity celebrated in the event. Prof. Sugandh Malhotra, known for his expertise in product design, was tasked with creating a trophy that not only represented these values but also had a strong aesthetic appeal. His design approach typically involves a deep understanding of form, functionality, and symbolism, ensuring that each element of the trophy resonates with the ethos of Kala Utsav.
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Interactive visualisations for reheating furnaces for National Institute of Secondary Steel Technology
by Prof. Anirudha Joshi
Prof. Anirudha Joshi from IDC IIT Bombay worked on interactive visualisations for reheating furnaces for the National Institute of Secondary Steel Technology (NISST). The project focused on creating tools that visually represented the complex processes involved in reheating furnaces used in the steel industry. Reheating furnaces are crucial in the steel production process as they heat steel to a temperature suitable for further processing, such as rolling. However, the operations can be intricate, involving variables like temperature control, fuel consumption, and furnace efficiency. Prof. Joshi's interactive visualisations aimed to simplify these complexities, enabling operators and engineers to better understand and optimise furnace operations. These visualisations likely included dynamic models of the furnace environment, heat distribution, and process flows, allowing users to simulate different scenarios and observe the effects in real-time.
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Extending mMitra, study of a mobile phone based support for urban poor pregnant women in India through pregnancy and infancy in their chosen language with Dasra / Armaan / Johnson & Johnson
by Prof. Anirudha Joshi
The "Extending mMitra" project, led by Prof. Anirudha Joshi at IDC IIT Bombay, focusses on supporting urban poor pregnant women in India through their pregnancy and infancy phases. The initiative is a mobile phone-based platform that delivers essential health-related information to women in their chosen language, providing guidance and support during pregnancy and early motherhood. Dasra, Armaan, and Johnson & Johnson collaborated on the project to enhance maternal and child health outcomes. The mMitra platform provides voice calls or messages that cover critical topics such as nutrition, prenatal care, infant care, immunisation, and more. This personalised communication system helps overcome language barriers and provides timely advice for women who might not have easy access to healthcare services.
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Dragonfly - VR Film
by Prof. Jayesh Pillai
"Dragonfly" is a VR film created by Prof. Jayesh Pillai from IDC IIT Bombay. It is an experimental virtual reality (VR) narrative that explores immersive storytelling through the medium of VR, allowing viewers to engage in a 360-degree visual and auditory experience. Prof. Jayesh Pillai, who is known for his work in interactive media, VR, and immersive environments, designed the film to push the boundaries of how stories are told in a virtual space. In "Dragonfly," viewers are not just passive observers but are enveloped within the story's world, enabling a deeper emotional connection to the narrative and its characters. The film utilizes cutting-edge VR technology to craft a visually rich environment, emphasizing the potential of VR as a medium for storytelling. The title "Dragonfly" symbolizes transformation and change, themes often central to Pillai's work.
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1999-2008
(5 items)

Retail Vision for Bharat Petroleum Corporation
by Prof. Ravi Poovaiah
Prof. Ravi Poovaiah from IDC IIT Bombay played a significant role in shaping the retail vision for Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) through design and innovation. This project focused on transforming the retail experience at BPCL's fuel stations and establishing a strong brand identity, aligning with modern customer expectations and the corporation’s goals for expansion and modernization. The core objective of the Retail Vision project was to make BPCL's fuel stations more accessible and user-friendly for customers. Prof. Poovaiah and his team focused on improving the overall customer experience through design, making fuel stations more visually appealing and functional. This included rethinking station layouts, signage, and wayfinding to create a seamless and efficient experience. Prof. Poovaiah helped refining BPCL’s visual identity, including the development of consistent signage, logos, and brand colours across all retail outlets. The design emphasised clarity, ease of navigation, and the corporation’s commitment to providing quality services. The visual system created a strong brand recall for BPCL, allowing the corporation to stand out in the competitive market. One of the goals was to ensure that all BPCL stations had a uniform look and feel. This included the design of service counters, lighting, canopy structures, and the arrangement of pumps to ensure a cohesive and appealing appearance that aligned with BPCL's new vision. The Retail Vision project under Prof. Ravi Poovaiah’s guidance significantly contributed to BPCL’s transformation into a modern, customer-centric corporation. The new design language and infrastructure reflected a strong, unified identity while also setting the groundwork for future growth and innovation in services.
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Swarachakra
by Prof. Anirudha Joshi
Swarachakra is a popular virtual keyboard designed for Indian languages, created under the guidance of Prof. Anirudha Joshi from the Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay. The keyboard is specifically developed to address the challenges of typing in Indian scripts on mobile devices, which often require more complex input systems compared to the Roman alphabet used in English. Swarachakra supports several Indian languages, including Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and others. The keyboard uses a unique "chakra" layout, where each vowel or consonant is arranged in a circular (chakra) manner around the base character, making it easier for users to find the appropriate form of a letter or its combination. Indian scripts often require combining consonants with vowels or other consonants (e.g., ligatures). Swarachakra makes this process intuitive by organising all possible character combinations in proximity to the base character. Prof. Anirudha Joshi has a strong focus on human-computer interaction (HCI) and designing solutions for underserved user groups, particularly in the Indian context. The development of Swarachakra reflects his emphasis on creating technology that is culturally relevant and user-friendly for native language speakers.
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Keylekh: a keyboard for text entry in indic scripts
by Prof. Anirudha Joshi
Prof. Anirudha Joshi and his team at the Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay designed Keylekh, a significant virtual keyboard, to facilitate text entry in Indian scripts on digital platforms. Like Swarachakra, Keylekh is aimed at addressing the challenges of typing in complex Indic scripts, but it adopts a slightly different approach to text input. Keylekh is based on a phonetic typing system. Users can type Indic characters using Roman alphabet equivalents, which are then automatically converted into the corresponding characters in the target Indian script. This helps users who are familiar with the Roman script but may not be accustomed to typing in native scripts. The keyboard supports a wide range of Indian scripts, making it versatile for users across India who speak and write in different languages like Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and others. As users type in phonetic Roman letters, the system dynamically converts them into the correct Indic script, allowing users to see the text in real-time. This immediate feedback ensures that users can quickly correct mistakes and learn the mapping between the Roman and Indic characters. Keylekh stands out as an innovative approach to digital text entry in Indian languages. It simplifies the typing process for a broad user base, particularly for those more familiar with Roman characters than complex Indian scripts. This keyboard is part of Prof. Anirudha Joshi’s broader mission to make technology accessible to underserved communities by designing culturally appropriate and user-friendly interfaces.
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Design of a Post Box for India Post
by Prof. B. K. Chakravarthy
The "Design of a Post Box for India Post" is an important design project led by Prof. B. K. Chakravarthy from the Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay. The project aimed to redesign and modernise the post boxes used by India Post, ensuring they were functional, durable, and visually aligned with the evolving urban and rural landscapes of India. The redesign focused on improving usability while maintaining the iconic and familiar look of the post box. One of the primary goals of the project was to make the post boxes more user-friendly. The height, angle, and placement of the mail slot were optimised for ease of use, ensuring that people of varying heights, including children and elderly citizens, could comfortably deposit letters. India’s diverse and extreme weather conditions—ranging from heavy monsoons to scorching summers—necessitate the use of weather-resistant materials. The redesigned post boxes were constructed with durable, rust-resistant materials to withstand harsh outdoor environments, ensuring long-term usability and reducing maintenance costs. The redesigned post boxes for India Post were successfully implemented across the country, serving as a vital tool in connecting people, especially in rural and remote areas.
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Chandamama Magazine Redesign
by Prof. G. V. Sreekumar
The Chandamama Magazine Redesign by Prof. G. V. Sreekumar from IDC, IIT Bombay, is an important project that focusses on refreshing the look and feel of one of India’s most iconic children’s magazines, Chandamama. Chandamama, known for its rich storytelling and illustrations, holds a nostalgic place in Indian literature, especially in the realm of folk tales, mythology, and moral stories. The redesign aimed to retain the traditional charm and essence of Chandamama while giving it a modern, contemporary appeal. The goal was to connect with a new generation of readers without alienating older audiences who grew up with the magazine. Prof. Sreekumar, known for his expertise in typography and graphic design, introduced fresh, readable, and visually appealing typefaces that balanced the magazine’s classic storytelling tradition with modern readability standards. The typography ensured that the text was both inviting for young readers and stayed true to the cultural context of the stories. A refreshed colour palette was introduced, keeping in mind the younger audience. The redesigned version of Chandamama aimed to breathe new life into the magazine during a time when print media was facing challenges from digital platforms. Prof. Sreekumar’s redesign received appreciation for respecting the legacy of the magazine while making it relevant for a 21st-century audience.
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1989-1998
(3 items)

Clay Exercise
by Prof. A. G. Rao
The clay exercise conducted by Prof. A. G. Rao in 1991 at IDC IIT Bombay was a significant event. Prof. Rao was known for his innovative teaching methods and his emphasis on hands-on learning. The clay exercise was designed to help students explore their creativity and understand the basics of form and structure through tactile engagement with the material. It encouraged students to think beyond traditional design constraints and develop a deeper appreciation for materiality in design. The exercise likely included activities where students shaped clay into various forms, experimenting with different techniques and approaches to achieve their design goals.
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Electronic Voting Machine
by Prof. A. G. Rao & Prof. Ravi Poovaiah

The Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) is a reliable system for conducting elections in which one person has to be elected out of many candidates. The EVM is designed for single posts and single votes. In the 1980s, the Election Commission of India initiated efforts to modernize the voting process and reduce electoral fraud. Professor A.G. Rao, along with his team at the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in Kolkata, and later Professor Ravi Poovaiah, played crucial roles in designing and developing EVMs for use in Indian elections. Their work led to the creation of a reliable and tamper-proof electronic voting system that has been widely adopted in India. The EVMs developed by Professors Rao and Poovaiah's team have several security features to prevent tampering and ensure the integrity of the voting process. These include encryption techniques, secure storage of votes, and built-in mechanisms to detect any attempts at manipulation.

The introduction of EVMs has revolutionized the electoral process in India, making voting faster, more efficient, and less prone to fraud. EVMs have been used in multiple general elections and state assembly elections in India since their introduction, and they have generally been well-received for their effectiveness in streamlining the voting process and improving the accuracy of vote counting.

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Indian Post Logo
by Prof. R. K. Joshi
Prof. R. K. Joshi, a distinguished typographer and calligrapher from IDC IIT Bombay, designed the Indian Post logo in 1993. The logo was part of a broader effort to modernise the Indian postal system's image, marking the transition to a more contemporary, efficient, and customer-friendly organization. The primary element of the logo is a stylised envelope, with three diagonal strokes resembling wings. These strokes represent speed, communication, and movement, reflecting the swift and reliable services of the Indian postal system. The colours are significant in the logo. Red represents energy and passion, symbolising the dedication of India Post in serving the country. Yellow is associated with warmth and positivity, indicating the trust and reliability of the service. Prof. Joshi's background in typography shines through in the logo. The wordmark Government of India and "INDIA POST" are rendered in a simple yet elegant font, making them easily recognisable and readable in both Hindi and English. The design by Prof. R. K. Joshi helped establish a strong brand identity for India Post, and it has remained largely unchanged since its creation, showcasing the timelessness of the design.
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1979-1988
(4 items)

Redesigned Bus Body
by Prof. Uday Athavankar
The Redesigned Bus Body Project, led by Prof. Uday Athavankar at IDC IIT Bombay in 1979, was a faculty initiative aimed at improving the design of public transportation in Mumbai. This project focused on redesigning the bus body to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of buses used in the city's public transport system.
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Stylized log 'Shree' with thick flat penakshra 'Gan' Calligrapher | Prof. R. K. Joshi
by Prof. R. K. Joshi
Stylized log 'Shree' with thick flat penakshra 'Gan' calligraphy by Prof. R. K. Joshi.
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STC Exhibition Model
by Prof. Sudhakar Nadkarni
The STC Exhibition Model developed by Prof. Sudhakar Nadkarni was conducted on June 27, 1979. Tryst with India and the Made in India-State Trading Corporation (STC) Pavilion Dome are two exhibition designs that Prof. Nadkarni was a part of.
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Telephone
by Prof. Mohan Bhandari
The Telephone project by Prof. Mohan Bhandari at IDC IIT Bombay is known for its emphasis on communication design, particularly focussing on user interaction with telecommunication devices. Prof. Bhandari, a notable faculty member in the field of industrial design, has contributed extensively to user-centric design projects that explore how everyday objects can be made more functional and aesthetically pleasing.
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1969-1978
(3 items)

Redesigned 16mm Projector
by Prof. A. G. Rao
16 mm Projector: It was the first major design project from Industry for IDC. The original design was from RCA(Radio Corporation of America), an American company. Photophone pvt ltd, the Indian company had bought the moulds to make the projector. 4 die-cast aluminum parts with several inserts formed the core of the 16mm film projector. The old design had several short comings.The additional castings brought in ‘visual binding’ to operating knobs, in addition to giving a functional advantage to take both spools to the top. The colour scheme ensured this visual organisation. Use of small halogen lamp reduced visual domination of lamp cover. Control knobs acquired a visual space. The controls for projection and Sound got segregated with colour coding. Vacuum formed covers in ABS plastic gave a new identity of a precision instrument to the projector and sound box. Additional castings one for the base and other at the top for spools were made in gravity die casting out of aluminum.Speaker Box Sizes of the Speaker box cover and Projector cover were kept same. This facilitated use of same basic moulds for vacuum forming. A cut out in the front gave opening for the speaker. In the back side cover of the ‘speaker box’ a compartment with a hinged cover was introduced to store the connection wires. Voltage Regulator Standard Voltage regulater was redesigned to give a comaptible as well as exclusive look.
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Asia-72 (3rd Asian International Trade Fair)
by Prof. Sudhakar Nadkarni
Asian International Trade Fair (Asia-72): This event was likely a trade fair held in 1972, focusing on international trade within the Asian region. Trade fairs like these typically showcase products and innovations and facilitate business interactions between countries. Prof. Sudakar Nadkarni, associated with the IDC (Industrial Design Centre) at IIT Bombay, designed the Asia-72 trade fair exhibition. He often plays crucial roles in organising such events, providing expertise and guidance, and possibly contributing to the design and conceptualization of exhibits or activities.
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Expo 70 at IDC
by Prof. Sudhakar Nadkarni
Expo '70 refers to the World's Fair that took place in Osaka, Japan, in 1970. Professor Sudakar Nadkarni, who is connected to IDC and IIT Bombay, played a significant role in this exposition. He was involved in presenting India's contributions to innovation and design on a global scale. The exhibition featured a number of displays showcasing Indian innovations, technology, and culture. Prof. Nadkarni's work at Expo '70 was instrumental in bringing global recognition to Indian design and setting the stage for future international collaborations and exhibitions.
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