Charles Correa's work immortal in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, June 17
Two works in Kerala of renowned architect Charles Correa, who died in Mumbai on Tuesday night, that have enthralled many, will remain immortal.

Visitors to Kovalam cherish the memories of the beach and enjoy the breathtaking view of the 183-room Leela Kovalam, a five-star hotel that's perched on a peak overlooking the sea.

Correa had designed this hotel, was originally built for the India Tourism Development Corporation during 1969-74 and is an architectural marvel till date.

"Correa will certainly live in the minds of all especially those related closely with architecture," said J.Jayakumar, a practising architect and principal of the College of Architecture in Kerala.

The second hugely popular architecture is the Parumala Church located near Thiruvalla about 120 km from here belongs to the Malankara Orthodox Church, that was completed in the year 2000. This church seating more than 2,000 worshippers reflects the history, tradition and culture of a conventional Indian church.

The church is circular in design and has an inner diameter of 39 meters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday condoled the death of well-known architect Charles Correa.

Correa, 84, died on Tuesday night in Mumbai after a brief illness.

"My deepest condolences on the passing away of the noted architect, Mr. Charles Correa. May his soul rest in peace," the PM tweeted.

Charles Correa was known for his contribution to modern architecture and urban planning in India.

Modi praised his work and said: "Mr. Charles Correa's architectural marvels are widely cherished, reflecting his brilliance, innovative zeal & wonderful aesthetic sense."

Correa's great works include Navi Mumbai -- the city across Mumbai's harbour. An expert on urban planning, Correa was appointed the first chairman of the National Commission on Urbanisation.

Born on September 1, 1930, Correa was the founder of Urban Design Research Institute in Mumbai.

He was also known for designing the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial in Ahmedabad and Madhya Pradesh Assembly building in Bhopal.