Hey, ever feel like architecture isn’t exactly your forever thing? You’re definitely not the only one. Turns out, a bunch of Indian celebs actually started with architecture degrees but then switched gears — sometimes quite drastically!
If you’re thinking about exploring other career paths after architecture, or just curious about how others have done it, this list might just surprise you.
Ritesh Deshmukh: Architect-Turned-Actor
Believe it or not, Ritesh actually completed his architecture degree from Kamla Raheja Vidyanidhi Institute and even launched an architectural firm called Evolutions Design. But soon enough, Bollywood called his name louder than drafting tables. Today, he’s a star on screen, proving that your first degree doesn’t have to define your whole career.
Not sure which niche is for you? Explore budget-friendly previews and connect with those who have walked the path, you are looking at! Feel free to get a free career counselling call with us.
Varun Chakravarthy: From Architect to IPL Star
Varun has a bachelor’s in architecture from SRM University and worked as an architect for two years before switching full-time to cricket. Now he’s a pro playing for Kolkata Knight Riders! Shows you that sometimes, life pitches you a new ball and you just gotta hit it out of the park.
Nikhil Chinapa: DJ & Festival Curator Extraordinaire
This one’s pretty cool — Nikhil studied architecture at BMS College of Engineering but found his groove as a DJ and host on MTV. So if you thought your architecture skills won’t be useful in entertainment, think again! Creativity travels in all directions.
Arundhati Roy: Writer & Activist with Architectural Roots
Before winning hearts with her writing and activism, Arundhati studied architecture at the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) and worked at the National Institute of Urban Affairs. But storytelling called louder — sometimes your true path sneaks up on you.
Arjun Kumaraswamy: From Cambridge to Music Awards
Arjun studied architecture at Cambridge but ended up diving into music and acting, with a nomination at the Brit Asia Music Awards. Just goes to show, creativity isn’t limited to blueprints and buildings.
What Can We Learn from These Career Swerves?
Studying architecture teaches you so much more than just designing buildings — it trains your creativity, problem-solving, and design thinking, skills that can take you anywhere. Whether you want to stay in architecture or explore other fields, your degree is just the start.
At Kaarwan, we meet tons of students and young professionals who feel stuck between what they studied and what they actually want to do. And that’s why we exist — to help you explore, experiment, and evolve your creative journey.
So if you're rethinking your path — you're in good company. Let’s draw your own blueprint together.
✦ Explore our workshops, career tools, and a growing community of doers at kaarwan.com✦ Because no dream is too off-track — especially if it’s yours.
