Prof. Ravindra Bhan was a pioneer in the field of landscape architecture in India. He started his architectural education in the School of Planning and Architecture in New Delhi but left formal architectural studies to work with Ar. A. P. Kanvinde. He participated in first-ever master planning attempt of Delhi and the very first Yamuna Riverfront Development plan. He then went on to work with Architect‘s Co–Partnership in England and later to Finland with the famous Architect Ar. Reima Pietila,. He completed his formal architectural education with B. Arch from Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.A. and Masters in Landscape architecture from the University of Pennsylvania, U.S.A.
Having worked briefly with Skidmore, Owing and Merril & Minoru Yamasaki and Associates, he met Prof. Ian MacHarg, the doyen of Landscape Architecture who authored “Design with nature “ that revolutionized the approach to landscape design. Having interacted with Prof. MacHarg as a student in the University of Pennsylvania and subsequently worked with him as a senior designer for over 7 years, Ar Bhan was selected by Ford Foundation to establish the first formal training in landscape architecture in India, at School of Planning and Architecture in Delhi which he headed for 5 years. He established his own practice in Delhi during this time.
Throughout his career, he has handled various projects, both in Architecture and Landscape where the design approach is guided by the site and its constraints and potentials it offered. Some of the projects include Shakti Sthala – Memorial for late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Development plans of Ayodhya Ghats, Master planning and Site development for Rabindra Sarovar, Andrews Ganj, Housing for HUDCO – Urban design and landscaping with Design of 180 units. Landscape design for Kovalam Beach Resort, Mughal Sheraton Hotel in Agra to name a few.
He was awarded the Aga Khan Award for architecture and landscape architecture in 1980 which is a Prestigious International Award for overall excellence He is also a recipient of many national and international awards, and has been a member of various advisory councils.
He was Professor and Head of Department of Landscape Architecture at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, and had also lectured at the University of Pennsylvania & Washington University.
May his soul rest in peace.