The world we inhabit is an ever-evolving work in progress—a rollercoaster of aspirations, wins, failures and dreams. Amid the chaos of existence, we seek a constant, something that keeps our hearts beating—passion.

At the latest edition of the Architecture Design Film Festival (ADFF), ADFF:STIR Mumbai, India-based multi-disciplinary studio reD Architects presents a thought-provoking pavilion titled Powering Passion. Located at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) grounds as part of the JSW Pavilion Park, the interactive installation explores and delves into the core values of the Indian Constitution. With a focus on passion, effort and societal responsibility, the pavilion, in tandem with responding to the curatorial brief Frames of Reference, encourages visitors to engage physically and mentally to reveal the values that form the foundation of Indian society. "Our installation is a continuation of an exploration that we started in Delhi a couple of years back,” Rajiv Parekh, founding partner, reD Architects, tells STIR. “It is a tribute to the words that resonate with us, which are a part of the preamble to the Indian Constitution," he adds. The pavilion, supported by Jaquar, embodies the energy required to maintain these ideals in today’s complex and ever-evolving world.

Founded by Rajiv Parekh, Ekta Parekh and Maithili Raut, reD Architects is a design practice emphasising research, inquiry and a multidisciplinary approach. The studio’s philosophy revolves around the idea that thoughtful design results from deep exploration and a collaborative effort between diverse fields such as architecture, interior design, urban planning and product design. reD Architects believes in creating spaces and experiences that transcend fleeting trends, delivering enduring value and enriched spatial experiences for clients.

For their pavilion design at ADFF:STIR, the Indian architects collaborated with Jaquar. A rapidly growing, multi-diversified ‘Complete Bathroom and Lighting Solutions’ brand with a presence in over 55 countries. The brand’s ethos of combining art with technology resonates deeply with the pavilion’s theme. Their dedication to craftsmanship aligns with the values explored in the pavilion—values that demand ongoing effort and attention to remain relevant. The brand’s collaboration with reD Architects further elevates the design installation, ensuring that every element contributes to the immersive experience.

Powering Passion emphasises that the values enunciated in the Indian Constitution are not passive but require constant effort to sustain. The installation features 10 bicycles and over 3,800 light bulbs—interactively connecting the physical act of cycling with a word puzzle. As visitors pedal, they activate the installation and gradually reveal a concealed word puzzle. This process symbolises the effort needed to keep societal values alive and relevant. As the words are revealed, they flicker and disappear, underscoring the notion that these ideals—such as justice, liberty and equality—cannot be taken for granted; they require active engagement and energy to endure. As Parekh explains, “The installation is about ‘frames of reference’. How much effort would you put in to keep the frame of reference in perspective and continue to highlight the meaning of these words to yourself?”

Powering Passion, more than just an artistic pavilion, aspires to be an impactful reminder of the collective responsibility we bear to uphold the ideals that guide society. Through the immersive installation, the architects challenge visitors to consider their individual roles and the continued efforts required to nurture the values outlined in the Constitution. Powering Passion serves as both a tribute and a call to action—a call for active passion required to uphold the transient values that form the foundation of society. “It is our hope that at the end of experiencing this installation, the visitors who come here and exert a certain amount of force, remember the words that form the basis for our society's existence and allow us to exist in harmony with each other,” the architect states in an exclusive conversation.

For more information, visit the ADFF:STIR Mumbai website for key highlights of the festival, including the 20+ films, 10 cinematic pavilions, special projects the ~log(ue) programme, media and press coverage and more. Stay tuned and keep an eye out for ADFF:STIR Mumbai 2026.