‘All traditional cities are modern’ By R Krishnakumar

All traditional cities are modern," says Dr Jyoti Hosagrahar. The view could smack of dichotomy in our times which compartmentalise tradition and modernity as disparate entities. Dr Hosagrahar, Director, Sustainable Urbanism International USA, asks pertinent questions. What would you call the quintessentially historic Hampi, which has opened up to the tourism industry? Or swanky malls which cash in on the shopping rush during festive seasons? Traditional or modern? Dr Hosagrahar sees the answer in what she calls indigenous modernity. Currently teaching at Columbia University, New York, Dr Hosagrahar advises on urban development, historic conservation and cultural sustainability issues in Asia. Deccan Herald caught up with her for an interview. Excerpts:

How would you define a modern Indian city, both in terms of its architecture and its residents?

Modernity in our context is confined to the mere symbols of modernity, while what we actually have are fragments coming together to form a whole. Many of these symbols are assumed as modern, just because they fit into the western model of modernisation, irrespective of their local relevance. Adopting these symbols could lead to misfits and inadaptations. This is where the concept of indigenous modernity gains relevance. The focus should be on minimising the disruptive aspects of modernisation, by adapting to local and cultural conditions. You are talking about contrasts between symbols of tradition and modernity. When viewed against Western cities, how prominent are these contrasts in India? The contrasts are so obvious here. Modernisation is indeed a global phenomenon and we can't really stop the clock. But the problem is that many of the aspects of modernism which we accept as universal are not really so. Malleswaram is definitely not like a Chicago neighbourhood, but it is indeed modern in its own way. It doesn't mean that there are no such disruptions in the West, but their expressions are different.

Would you say that the Western idea of modernism has been the single-most effective influence on Asian and African cities?

Absolutely, But the point is that we haven't been able to live at ease with such influences. In this apparently modern world, we still celebrate the grihapraveshas and a whole lot of other rituals. Shopping malls, which we attach to modernity, give offers during traditional festivals. On the other hand, traditional outfits like sangeeta sabhas have adapted to modern stages and settings.

The role of the public in urban planning has more or less remained on paper. What's your take on that?

I do feel that people should be actively involved in the planning. What are the people's needs? What kind of changes are they responding to? These are questions that should be addressed while adopting changes. However, the stakeholders should be taken into consideration as well. If you ban vendors from your area, they can set shop on the sidewalks. Their issues should be addressed as well.

Do you think public health has been given enough focus in urban planning?

Intermediate systems should be adopted to ensure a stable public health system. For example, the midwives have made way for super-specialty hospitals now. But perceptions of or access to these modern facilities are still issues. Complete Changes from old to new create disruptions and schizophrenias. Adaptation and continuity are what matter here.

What would you call a heritage hotel? Traditional or modern?

Modern, absolutely. It involves the romanticisation of the past but within the framework of tourism, which is a modern industry. Preservation and renovation of heritage is fine, as long as the change is addressed as modern