Hmm.. Nice question, Ramya.
I would really love to add my point at this time. ITS NOT ABOUT JAVA. Its about aptitude and ATTITUDE.
Java is just a stepping stone. Nothing more than else. If you have all the qualities, then It would not really take much time to build your career and move into the higher positions.
As for as I know, software architect deals more with technical and managements skills. But more part of the meal is towards technical.
Hope, it helps!!!