Young Architect Upasana Sharma Wins National Award for Excellence

Recognition at ICI Altatech Structure Awards 2025

Munish Sood
Mandi
A talented architect from Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh has gained national acclaim for her exceptional contributions to architecture. Upasana Sharma, hailing from Riyur village in the Rewalsar area of Balh tehsil, has been awarded the Best Commercial Award at the esteemed ICI Altatech Structure Awards 2025, which took place recently in Dharamshala.

The award was presented by IAS officer Vinod Kumar, who was the chief guest at the event. Upasana received this honor for her impressive architectural work on the Rooh Kasol commercial project located in Kasol, Kullu district.

The jury selected her project at the national level due to its innovative design, structural integrity, technical excellence, and visual appeal. This recognition positions Upasana among the forefront of emerging architects in the country.

In her acceptance speech, Upasana expressed her gratitude towards her parents for their unwavering support and guidance. Her mother, Kusumlata, is a supervisor in the Child Development Project Department in Rewalsar, while her father, Neelkamal Sharma, has served as the deputy head of the village and remains actively involved in community service.

Upasana is an alumnus of the Sundernagar Polytechnic Training Institute and later earned her architecture degree from Nagrota Bagwan. She is currently affiliated with the Institute of Architecture at Souli Khad and is involved in various ambitious projects.

Her accomplishment has instilled pride in the Mandi district, especially in her hometown of Riyur. Local representatives, social organizations, and residents have extended their heartfelt congratulations and expressed wishes for her continued success.

Upasana’s journey serves as a powerful testament to the idea that talent, perseverance, and family support can empower individuals from small villages to achieve national recognition, inspiring young professionals—particularly women—to chase their aspirations with confidence.