In the heart of Bhopal, Dhammada Collective is redefining the meaning of responsible architecture. Founded in 2021 by architect Nipun Prabhakar with Nilesh Suman and Simran Channa, the collective draws its name from the Hindi phrase “apna dhammada karna”, a philosophy rooted in performing one’s duty responsibly. This guiding principle reflects in their approach to every project: mindful of environmental impact, respectful of local ecosystems, and deeply engaged with the communities they serve.
Unlike conventional architectural practices that often prioritize form over impact, Dhammada Collective’s design process begins with responsibility. “Every step we take affects the land, the environment, and the community,” says Prabhakar. The team ensures conscious design by using local materials, engaging artisans, and reviving traditional building techniques. Their focus on circular construction practices like reusing discarded materials like paper tubes and pallet wood. And this has become a signature aspect of their style.
A key differentiator for the collective is its participatory design process. For community projects, they actively involve future users, presenting models and incorporating local feedback before finalizing plans. This approach ensures that architecture not only fits the environment but also fulfills the cultural and social needs of its inhabitants.
Dhammada Collective’s portfolio includes diverse projects:
Eco-sensitive prototypes for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Grameen) in Madhya Pradesh, aiming to influence 2 million upcoming rural homes with climate and culture-conscious designs.
Rural homestays in 12 villages with Madhya Pradesh Tourism, co-created with villagers using local materials and craftsmanship.
Private residences in Udaipur and experimental furniture collections utilizing waste and reclaimed wood.
The practice thrives on a horizontal collaborative model, rejecting the traditional hierarchical structure of architecture firms. With partners like town planner Nilesh and furniture designer Simran, each project benefits from diverse perspectives—be it urban planning, craft revival, or hands-on construction experience.
Dhammada’s vision is two-fold: to serve society through responsible architecture and to nurture the next generation of architects and artisans. They regularly involve interns and train local craftsmen, ensuring knowledge transfer and craft preservation.
By staying rooted in Bhopal, a tier-2 city surrounded by tribal regions, Dhammada Collective consciously steps away from the glass-and-concrete aspirations of metropolitan India. Instead, they are crafting architecture that celebrates community, culture, and conscience - a quiet yet impactful resistance to the homogenization of urban landscapes.
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