CULTURAL NOTES: ‘I carry Kashmir with me—in memory, in spirit, and in heart’

In a world where glass towers scrape the skies and cities race toward the future, Aziz Ul-Hassan Ashai, popularly known as Tony Ashai dares to build more than just structures, he builds stories, soul, and a sense of belonging. A global architect with projects spanning Los Angeles to Dubai, Ashai’s roots remain firmly planted in the heritage-rich soil of Kashmir. His journey, stretching from the winding alleys of Fateh Kadal to the gleaming skylines of the world’s most ambitious cities, is a testament to the power of imagination, and cultural pride. In this exclusive conversation, Greater Kashmir’s Senior Editor Nazir Ganaie talks to the Kashmiri-American trailblazer, Tony Ashai, to unravel the layers of his personal and professional odyssey. With striking candor, Ashai reflects on his boyhood in Srinagar, the silent influence of Kashmir’s architecture on his designs, the bittersweet complexities of immigration, and the dream that still fuels his fire—to return home, not just in spirit, but in stone.

Greater Kashmir: You were born and raised in Kashmir — what are your earliest memories of growing up there?

Tony Ashai: I was born in Ashai Kocha, Fateh Kadal and spent most of my childhood in Rajbagh. My earliest memories of Kashmir are deeply rooted in the warmth and vibrancy of a joint family, where life was always filled with the sounds of laughter, shared meals, and togetherness. I have fond memories of my time at Burn Hall School and later at SP College, where I completed my 11^th grade. Some of my most cherished moments include climbing the steps to Maqdoom Sahib shrine with my mother and spending quiet, reflective time at Naqshband Sahib with my father. One of my greatest joys was learning art at the School of Music & Fine Arts in Jawahar Nagar, where I went every day after school—it quickly became my favorite place to be.

How did the environment and culture of Kashmir shape your sense of aesthetics and design?

Kashmir has a rich and deeply rooted history of Sufism and art — whether in the intricate patterns of our shawls, the elegance of handwoven carpets, or the delicate mastery of woodcarving. I truly believe that art runs in our veins; it’s part of our cultural DNA. This heritage has undoubtedly shaped my own aesthetic sensibilities. I am convinced that Kashmiris have immense potential to thrive in the world of art, if only they are given the chance to pursue it. Sadly, the reality is that art often doesn’t offer financial stability in the early stages. As a result, many are forced to abandon it for purely economic reasons — and that, to me, is deeply heartbreaking.

When did you first realize you wanted to become an architect? Was there a particular moment or influence?

I was fortunate to have an art school located literally across the street from my house. As a child, I was curious and often wandered over to watch the students working on oil paintings and sculptures. I was immediately drawn to it and begged them to let me learn as well. Although I was too young to officially enroll, they allowed me to sit in the studio, where I would sketch and draw alongside them. Even then, I knew I wanted to become an artist. I must have been around 13 or 14 years old at the time. Looking back, I can confidently say that the School of Music and Fine Arts had a profound influence on me.

What values or lessons from your Kashmiri upbringing continue to guide your life and work today?

Kashmiris, in my experience, are inherently kind and creative people — artists at heart. Growing up in Kashmir, I witnessed a deep sense of unity among us. There was no place for hate or division based on faith; we were all simply Kashmiris. Our shared language and rich culture were the threads that held us together.

I continue to live by those values of tolerance, brotherhood, and non-violence. I do not judge anyone based on race, color, or religion. What I value most is integrity, hard work, and character.

This belief is reflected clearly in my professional life. Anyone who walks into my office will see a diverse team — individuals from all faiths, backgrounds, and cultures — working together with mutual respect and purpose.

Despite living abroad, you often speak fondly of Kashmir. How do you maintain your emotional and cultural connection to your homeland?

Although I have spent most of my life outside Kashmir, the essence of Kashmir continues to live within me. Every week in Los Angeles, I gather with my Kashmiri friends to speak our language, share traditional meals, and listen to the music that reminds us of home. The culture is so deeply rooted, so powerful in its presence, that even distance and time can’t diminish its hold. No matter where I go, I carry Kashmir with me—in memory, in spirit, and in heart. The bond I feel with my homeland is unshakable.

From Aziz to Tony, how did that happen?

When I migrated to the United States at the age of 20, my name was Aziz Ul-Hassan Ashai. While attending college, my classmates gave me the nickname “Tony” because I resembled Tony Montana, a character from a popular movie at the time. Later, when I became eligible for U.S. citizenship, I was given the option to choose the name under which I would be naturalized. I was 24 years old then, and without giving it much thought, I decided to officially adopt the name Tony Ashai. And that’s how I became Tony.

Tell us about your journey from Kashmir to the United States — how challenging was that transition, personally and professionally?

My journey from Kashmir to California is one that deserves a book of its own. Insha Allah, one day I will write it. But for now, let me say this—it was anything but easy.

In the beginning, life was incredibly tough. I was just a poor immigrant with a heavy accent that most Americans couldn’t understand. I realized early on that if I couldn’t communicate, I wouldn’t be able to find a job. So that became my first mission—improving my English and learning how to be understood. But the greatest challenge wasn’t language. It was overcoming my own prejudices and opening my mind to a new way of life. That transformation took time, humility, and deep inner work.

The first ten years were the hardest—endless struggle, no days off, not even on weekends. But I kept going, fueled by faith, purpose, and the belief that hard work never goes unnoticed.

And indeed, life has a way of rewarding perseverance. Today, I thank Allah every single day for the countless blessings He has poured into my life. Every hardship had a purpose, and every sacrifice was worth it.

How did your time studying architecture abroad shape your creative philosophy?

I completed my Master’s in Urban Design at the State University of New York under the mentorship of Professor Robert Shibley, widely regarded as the father of Master Planning. What began as a fortunate accident turned into a transformative journey, with Professor Shibley becoming a guiding influence in my academic and professional life. Under his guidance, I developed a deep understanding of the relationship between space planning and human behavior—an insight that continues to shape and inspire all my design work to this day.

You have designed across diverse geographies — from Dubai to Los Angeles, India to Pakistan. How do you adapt your vision to such different landscapes and cultures?

I believe in contextual design—the idea that the architecture of any building or city should be shaped by its surroundings. Context can take many forms: the existing built environment, local culture, or historical heritage. I strongly believe that cultural and historical influences should never be overlooked when designing a building or planning a city. This approach not only ensures that new developments feel authentic and grounded, but also allows me to design comfortably and confidently in any part of the world.

What would you say was the turning point in your architectural career?

A turning point in my career came in 2006, when I was invited to master plan a city near Dubai—Dubai Lifestyle City. This pivotal project opened the door to another major opportunity: the master planning of Tiger Woods Dubai. From there, my journey in large-scale urban development truly began—and the rest, as they say, is history.

Your designs are known for their boldness and modernity — what’s your design philosophy in one line?

My design philosophy is very simple. I am not designing for me but for the people who will live and work in my buildings.

You’ve been part of several high-profile projects globally. Which one holds the deepest meaning for you, and why?

Every project I undertake holds a special place in my heart and means the world to me. When I commit to a project, I become fully immersed in its creation. My work spans from designing individual buildings to master-planning entire cities. Whether it’s the largest Hilton hotel in Chad, Africa, the luxurious JW Marriott resort in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, or the iconic Los Angeles Tower in California, each project carries a piece of my soul within it.

Your association with Bollywood mega star, Shahrukh Khan and cricket legend and former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan hogged headlines for all the reasons. How was the experience personally and professionally?

As for Shah Rukh Khan and Imran Khan, they will always remain my friends—whether they are stars or prime ministers.

How do you balance innovation with cultural identity in your designs?

They have to go hand in hand. Both culture and innovation have to be balanced in any design. I have mastered that.

Sustainability is now central to architecture — how does it figure in your work?

Sustainable design is a fundamental aspect of my buildings. By utilizing local materials and incorporating energy-efficient solutions, I ensure that each project meets global green building standards.

If you were to design a landmark project in Kashmir, what would it look like? What emotions or ideas would you want it to evoke?

Kashmir holds a deeply rich context, encompassing everything from its unique topography to its vibrant cultural heritage. If I were to design a building or even a city in Kashmir, my foremost priority would be to create something inherently Kashmiri—something that resonates with the region’s natural beauty and cultural identity, rather than an alien structure that disrupts its essence.

Recently, I was invited by an Indian business house to design a large hotel development in Kashmir. However, I had to respectfully decline the opportunity. At this stage of my career, my commitments are focused exclusively on projects within the USA and the Middle East. In fact, my schedule is fully booked for the next five years, leaving no room for additional engagements.

That said, if I ever do have the chance to design in Kashmir, it would be a project of great significance to the local people, driven by purpose rather than commercial interest.

You often reach out to the Kashmiri youth through social media — what motivates you to engage so actively?

Kashmir’s youth hold a very special place in my heart. It pains me deeply to see how desperate so many of them are for employment. Every day, I receive countless messages on my social media from young Kashmiris simply asking for a job. All I can offer them is hope — hope that if a Kashmiri kid like Aziz Ashai, born and raised in Fateh Kadal downtown, can rise above the challenges and make something meaningful of his life, then they can too. This belief is what keeps me motivated every day. I truly feel for each one of them, but it’s just not possible for me to respond to everyone. If I reply to one, I’d feel obligated to reply to all and I just want to tell them please go ahead and make something meaningful to yourself and your family. I want everyone to know that I do see your messages, and I deeply understand the struggle. It’s not that I’m ignoring you — it’s just that I feel helpless when it comes to employment opportunities. I genuinely wish I could do more to help.

What advice would you give to young Kashmiri creative architects who dream of working globally but staying rooted locally?

My advice …laughs! Believe in your dreams, for dreams do come true when you work hard. Never let hatred take root in your heart—hate is like a cancer that will only hold you back. Stand up for what you believe in and argue passionately, but always stay away from violence. Respect your parents, for their love for you is unconditional and unwavering.

How do you see architecture contributing to the rebuilding of Kashmir — not just physically, but emotionally and culturally?

Architecture plays a crucial role in shaping the environment, just as the environment profoundly influences the development of societies. Unfortunately, Srinagar city has diverged significantly from the principles of thoughtful and responsible architecture. I urge local architects to delve deeply into the rich history of the region, embrace the use of indigenous materials, and prioritize the preservation of the environment. By doing so, they can create spaces that honor both cultural heritage and ecological balance.

You’ve been outspoken on issues related to Kashmir. How do you balance your professional identity with your personal convictions?

I am outspoken on every issue because I have no filter. Those who know me understand that I mean no harm to anyone—not even to those who may wish me harm. I make a clear distinction between my profession and my personal views. My profession is sacred to me, and I treat every client with the utmost respect, regardless of who they are. My social opinions are my own and remain separate from my professional responsibilities. At least, that is how I choose to see it.

What do you think the global community misunderstands most about Kashmir and its people?

I don’t think the global community truly thinks about or cares for Kashmir or Kashmiris. Once you leave Kashmir and travel abroad, you realize how insignificant and irrelevant we Kashmiris appear to the rest of the world.

Looking ahead, what is your hope for Kashmir — both as a native son and as a global citizen?

I hope that one day peace prevails in Kashmir—a place where commerce flourishes and Kashmiri children can live their lives to the fullest, free from fear and violence.