Land-Water-Life: Majuli’s Symphony Of Survival | Architecture Thesis On Community Development

Site Context

Majuli, the world’s largest river island, is nestled within the Brahmaputra River in Assam. The project’s micro-site is located in Phuloni Village, which is influenced by deeply rooted cultural customs and seasonal water levels, close to the Rangachahi Bridge. 

The site’s dynamic landscape, which includes a water body that rises significantly during the monsoon season, presents both design opportunities and challenges. The area around the site is home to a diverse population, including traditional Mishing and Weaving communities, whose livelihoods and cultural practices are closely linked to the environment.

Design Process

The rationale behind this project lies in recognizing the interconnectedness between cultural preservation, healthcare provision, community well-being, and environmental resilience. By reimagining traditional Satra spaces and integrating them with essential healthcare facilities, the project aims to not only preserve the island’s cultural identity but also improve access to critical services. 

Final Outcome

The aim of the thesis is to develop spatial strategies to prolong the lives of Majuli residents, whose lives are totally disrupted by floods, contrary to offering a solution. By establishing a multipurpose community area that acts as a beacon for sociocultural revival, community empowerment, and resilience, the project aims to address these concerns. 

The conceptualization of spatial design considers the climatic conditions and responds to the environment where the community adapts to living with wetness and flux. Each space possesses its own nature of adaptability, featuring specific types of openings, varying scales, and other adaptive elements. 

The bridge, serving as the primary connecting element, is characterized by its ability to adjust to the flux. Additionally, it serves as an economic street, keeping the entire project active all year long and playing a vital role in the local economy both during and after floods. Furthermore, the project empowers locals, particularly children, to actively participate in the celebration and preservation of Majuli’s cultural heritage by supporting educational initiatives and community workshops.

Conclusion: Ultimately, the project aims to create a dynamic, multipurpose space that seamlessly adapts to the community’s way of life as the seasons change. The architecture honors and celebrates the island’s rich cultural legacy by utilizing locally sourced materials and taking inspiration from Majuli’s traditional homes, ensuring that the design will resonate deeply with the community it serves.

[This Academic Project has been published with text and images submitted by the student]