Prof. Christopher Benninger (1942-2024), a luminary in the realm of architecture, has left an indelible mark on modern Indian architecture. With a master's degree in architecture from Harvard and another in city planning from MIT, he came to India to establish the School of Planning at CEPT University in 1971. Later, he founded the Centre for Development Studies and Activities, at Pune University in 1976.

His architectural practice, CCBA Designs has produced over 300 projects across diverse typologies spanning Institutional, Residential, Industrial, Health Care, and master planning, Benninger's architectural excellence manifests over five decades. His designs for over twenty institutions, including IIT Hyderabad, IIM Calcutta, and Azim Premji University, exemplify a commitment to sustainability and human-centric creations. His planning expertise extends globally, contributing to projects for international organizations in India, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, Kenya, and Zambia.

In addition to his architectural achievements, Benninger is a prolific author, with notable works including 'Letters to A Young Architect' and 'Christopher Benninger: Architecture for a Modern India'. His theory, 'Principles of Intelligent Urbanism,' aimed at creating sustainable cities, is taught worldwide. A sequel to the bestseller 'Letters to a Young Architect', titled 'Great Expectations: Notes to an Architect' written by him was released posthumously.

Internationally recognized for his contributions to shaping the built environment, Benninger has garnered numerous awards, including the prestigious Great Master Architect Award and other multiple Lifetime Achievement awards including an Honorary Doctorate in Architecture bestowed upon him by CEPT University. His most recent accolade includes the prestigious Baburao Mhatre Gold Medal 2024 by IIA, highlighting his enduring influence in the architectural realm.