The Kinetic City and other Essays

"The Kinetic City and Other Essays" is a collection of writings by the renowned architect and urbanist Rahul Mehrotra, created over a span of thirty years. This book highlights Mehrotra's profound engagement with urbanization in India. He introduces the concept of the "Kinetic City," which serves as a counterpoint to the "Static City," as depicted in conventional city plans. Mehrotra argues that cities should be viewed not only as physical spaces but also as dynamic entities shaped by patterns of occupancy and the associated values. The central essay in this work provides a framework for better understanding the complex interrelations of contemporary urbanity and the changing roles of people and spaces in urban society. The essays in this collection, including topics such as the development of urban form in Bombay, offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of urban design in India.