The Soul Traveller Podcast ft. Dheeraj

Hosted by: Bhupendra Pratap Singh

Series: The Soul Traveller Podcast

Episode Overview

In this inspiring episode of The Soul Traveller, we explore the world of regenerative design with Dheeraj, an architect who is proving that the future of housing lies in our past. Through his initiative, Pucca Local, Dheeraj is challenging the modern obsession with high-carbon, cookie-cutter construction by returning to the wisdom of the earth.

Based in Hyderabad, Dheeraj’s work is a masterclass in "contextual architecture"—the art of building homes that belong to the land they sit on. This conversation traces his journey from the rigorous studios of SPA Bhopal to the frontlines of sustainable innovation, where he balances the roles of a practicing architect and an academic mentor.

About the Guest — Dheeraj

Dheeraj is an architect, educator, and the founder of Pucca Local. An alumnus of the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), Bhopal, his design philosophy is rooted in the belief that "local is permanent." He advocates for the use of indigenous materials and traditional building techniques, adapted for contemporary needs.

When he is not on-site experimenting with lime, mud, or local stone, Dheeraj serves as an Assistant Professor, shaping the minds of the next generation of architects. His dual role allows him to bridge the gap between architectural theory and the gritty, rewarding reality of eco-conscious construction.

The Vision of Pucca Local: Building with a Conscience

Dheeraj discusses the inception of Pucca Local and why he chose to move away from conventional materials like glass and concrete. He explains the "Pucca" philosophy—creating structures that are durable and robust, not through industrial chemicals, but through a deep understanding of local ecosystems. This segment highlights how building "locally" reduces the carbon footprint and creates homes that are naturally thermal-efficient and soulfully aesthetic.

Key Themes Discussed in This Episode

• The SPA Bhopal Foundation: How his alma mater influenced his approach to spatial thinking and sustainability.

• Defining Pucca Local: The core mission of using local materials to create high-quality, permanent structures.

• Material Intelligence: Exploring the benefits of mud, lime, and stone over modern synthetic alternatives.

• The Academic Bridge: How teaching as an Assistant Professor informs his creative practice and vice versa.

• The Ethics of Construction: Navigating the challenges of convincing clients and the industry to embrace eco-friendly alternatives.

• The Future of Housing: A vision for a world where architecture prioritizes the environment as much as the occupant.

Campaigns & Impact

• Pucca Local: A Hyderabad-based design initiative focusing on sustainable, locally-sourced architectural projects that harmonize with their surroundings.

• Architectural Mentorship: Through his role in academia, Dheeraj is actively fostering a culture of sustainability among future architects.

Why This Episode Matters

This conversation is a call to rethink the very walls we live within. Dheeraj provides a practical, grounded perspective on how sustainability is not just a luxury or a trend, but a necessity for the future. Whether you are an architecture student, a homeowner dreaming of a green house, or someone interested in meaningful innovation, Dheeraj’s journey from SPA Bhopal to Hyderabad offers inspiration and a clear roadmap for conscious living.

About The Soul Traveller Podcast

The Soul Traveller Podcast documents conversations with changemakers, survivors, educators, travellers, and activists whose lives reflect resilience, purpose, and social responsibility. Hosted by Bhupendra Pratap Singh, the podcast captures stories that inspire reflection, action, and collective healing.