Where Knowledge Becomes Legacy: The Story of Ar. Anurakkti Yadav

Some journeys are planned. Others unfold gently, guided by love, responsibility, and purpose. For Ar. Anurakkti Yadav, the transition from architectural practice to academics was not a calculated career move—it was an emotional calling rooted deeply in her upbringing.

A Legacy of Knowledge

Her earliest inspiration was her father, an intellectual with profound knowledge across subjects and a gifted speaker who delivered lectures at prestigious institutions like Indian Institute of Management. He often spoke about management lessons drawn from the Bhagavad Gita, blending life philosophy with practical wisdom.

Growing up, Anurakkti witnessed the power of shared knowledge. Her father’s words stayed with her: “If you have knowledge, you must share it.”



Initially, however, she immersed herself fully in architectural practice. She thrived on projects, site visits, and creative execution. But life, as it often does, redirected her path.

When her father was transferred to Bhopal and her major projects were based in Indore, she found herself at a crossroads. Around the same time, her mother fell seriously ill. With architectural practice demanding long and unpredictable site hours, she made a difficult yet heartfelt decision—to leave Indore and move to Bhopal to care for her mother.

That decision quietly marked the beginning of a new chapter.

When Teaching Chose Her

Teaching emerged not merely as an alternative, but as the right path. It resonated with her father’s philosophy of sharing knowledge. Once she entered academics, she realized how fulfilling it felt to be surrounded by young, curious minds. Students challenged her thinking, asked fresh questions, and pushed her to remain updated and research-driven.

Teaching became more than a profession—it became a journey of self-growth, research, and inner satisfaction.

The Testing Ground

Her initial phase, however, was far from smooth.

Her first teaching assignment was in an engineering college. Despite being an architect, limited options in Bhopal and personal responsibilities led her there. The only architecture college was too far from home to manage daily travel.

The environment was unfamiliar. Students had different exposure levels, learning styles, and classroom dynamics. Maintaining discipline and effective communication was challenging. There were moments of doubt and self-questioning.

Instead of resisting the situation, she chose empathy. She began listening to her students, understanding their perspectives, and building genuine connections. Gradually, the classroom transformed. The “difficult” students became engaged learners. A strong bond developed, and teaching became joyful again.

The experience taught her a vital lesson: leadership begins with understanding.

Rising to Leadership

One of the most defining chapters of her career came when she was unexpectedly promoted to Head of Department at a young age.

The promotion brought both pride and pressure. Managing an entire department meant overseeing faculty, students, academic planning, meetings, and collaborations. The bigger challenge was leading colleagues who were far more experienced.

Resistance surfaced. Some were hesitant to accept her ideas. At times, jealousy was evident. Yet, she remained composed. She chose to focus on clarity, competence, and consistency rather than reactions.

Over time, her dedication and vision spoke for themselves. Appreciation replaced resistance, and collaboration replaced doubt. This phase shaped her leadership style—patient, confident, and resilient. The unwavering support of her parents and siblings strengthened her belief in herself.

After marriage, she joined an architecture college where she continues balancing teaching with professional practice—harmonizing design and academics seamlessly.

Achievements That Reflect Purpose

Her journey is decorated with milestones that reflect both intellect and heart:

• Choosing Education as a Purpose
• What began as a responsibility evolved into a lifelong calling. Teaching became not just a career but a meaningful life mission.
• Young Head of Department
• Being entrusted with departmental leadership early in her career validated her capability and strengthened her leadership acumen.
• Research and Academic Contributions
• She has published and presented research at national and international platforms, focusing on low-cost construction materials, earthquake-resistant techniques, recycled concrete, and innovative building technologies—bridging sustainability with practicality.
• Author of Nakre Pyar aur Jaadu
• Her Hindi poetry collection, Nakre Pyar aur Jaadu, is a heartfelt tribute to her parents. Through simple yet emotionally resonant poems, she captures love, upbringing, discipline, freedom, and the silent sacrifices of parenting. The book is not merely literature—it is gratitude preserved in words.
• Mrs India – Pride of Nation 2025 Runner-Up
• Winning the title at Mrs India – Pride of Nation 2025 as Runner-Up stands as a powerful symbol of confidence and multidimensional identity. It reflects her belief that women can seamlessly embrace roles as educators, professionals, creators, and individuals—at every stage of life.

A Philosophy of Flow

Interestingly, Anurakkti does not believe in rigid future planning. For her, excessive planning can create unnecessary stress and disappointment. Instead, she believes in organic growth—learning continuously, improving steadily, and embracing opportunities when they align with her values and family.

To her, success is not about chasing fixed milestones. It is about evolving, staying grounded, and engaging in meaningful work that brings balance and fulfillment.