The Dhruba Baruah Memorial Forum (DBMF) continues to stand as a heartfelt tribute to the late Dhruba Baruah from Assam, whose passion for architecture and camaraderie left a lasting impression on his peers. Founded in 2013 by a group of young, dynamic architects who began their journey together in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, DBMF has evolved into a meaningful platform that connects creative minds across the country.
What started as a shared remembrance has today grown into a powerful collective of architects practicing across diverse specializations, each contributing uniquely to the built environment in India. Despite branching into different professional paths, the founding members remain united by a common vision—to nurture creativity, expand exposure, and foster a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.
Marking its fifth year, DBMF recently hosted a vibrant and intellectually enriching gathering in Kolhapur, bringing together over 400 architects and architecture students. The event reflected the forum’s core philosophy of bridging the gap between academia and practice while encouraging open dialogue and exchange of ideas.
The highlight of the event was a series of insightful sessions by distinguished speakers from across the region and beyond. Architect Milinda Pathiraja from Sri Lanka shared his unique design perspectives rooted in context and sustainability, offering attendees a global outlook on architectural practice. Verna Shashidhar from Bengaluru captivated the audience with her experiential approach to design thinking, while Architect Kishor Trivedi from Rajkot provided valuable insights drawn from his extensive professional journey.
These sessions created a dynamic platform where participants could engage directly with industry leaders, explore innovative design approaches, and gain deeper understanding of evolving architectural narratives. The forum’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity was evident, as it continues to operate on a non-commercial basis, driven purely by passion and purpose.
Beyond lectures and presentations, DBMF remains deeply rooted in community engagement. It strives to make architecture and art more approachable, fostering a sense of social responsibility among its members and the wider community. Workshops and interactive sessions further strengthened this connection, encouraging participants to think beyond design and consider their role in shaping society.
As DBMF completes five impactful years, it reinforces its mission of building a strong, connected, and inspired architectural community. With a legacy grounded in friendship, culture, and creativity, the forum continues to inspire the next generation—proving that meaningful initiatives, when driven by passion, can leave an enduring mark on both people and the profession.
