India, Sept. 12 -- Should we deliberately demolish vintage urban structures to accommodate modern aspirations? Or can cities balance heritage conservation with the need for modernization? A recent exhibition in Kolkata attempted to showcase how preservation of built heritage may be aligned with urban development.

While the growing urge for modernization often overrides the need to preserve the architectural heritage of old cities, it has been proved beyond doubt that such vintage structures are our connection to the past. Demolishing these structures not only results in the loss of urban architectural legacy but also cuts off future generations from their roots. Besides, old buildings, as part of the city's tourist attractions, can also ...