Philosophy
Management
Team

Building on the legacy of our long-standing partner, Hunnarshala, our organisation – AINA – is committed to justice for the poor, artisans, and the environment in the fields of appropriate technologies, architecture, and construction. Our primary objectives revolve around creating inclusive habitats by providing housing, basic services, and infrastructure for marginalised communities in both urban and rural settings. During disasters, we support communities in helping them rebuild and restore their habitats and infrastructure.

Sustainable resource management is a core focus, promoting the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources in construction practices. Through education and training programmes, we empower individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for sustainable development.

We prioritise technological innovation, researching and deploying cutting-edge solutions in building design, preservation, and environmental practices. Social, economic, and environmental research informs our strategies, enabling us to address the specific needs of communities. Our organisation actively works on policy development and advocacy to improve guidelines, programmes, and practices in the habitat development sphere. We are dedicated to enhancing work conditions and skills for artisans, supporting their professional growth and well-being.

Our comprehensive approach spans design and planning at all scales, from interiors and landscapes to urban and rural habitats and ecologies. We undertake diverse construction projects including buildings, infrastructure, landscapes, and restoration. In summary, our organisation is dedicated to justice, sustainability, and innovation, striving for inclusive habitats, disaster recovery support, resource conservation, education and training, technological advancements, policy advocacy, artisan empowerment, and comprehensive design and construction initiatives.

About Artisana

Artisana Centre for Habitat and Technologies Pvt. Ltd. extends AINA’s sustainable and environment-friendly construction to the masses. Artisana complements AINA’s mission through technology-based services and diverse project execution.The centre serves architects, developers, builders, and end users, delivering innovative solutions for public buildings, institutions, and hospitality sectors.

Artisana’s commitment to eco-friendly construction translates into practical applications, showcasing the viability of sustainable building techniques through techniques like rammed earth construction. By combining such methods with cutting-edge technologies, Artisana demonstrates that eco-friendly practices can be economically viable and aesthetically pleasing, bridging the gap between traditional methods and the growing demand for sustainable alternatives in mainstream construction.

Mission and Philosophy

Vision

Our mission is to empower communities for a sustainable and resilient life through a participatory approach with traditional building practices and environment friendly green technology.
Our vision is to create a future that is rooted in tradition, community, and sustainability for the coming generations.

Management

Sandeep Virmani

Advisor

Dharmesh Jadeja

Direcotor

Dr. Jigna
Desai

Director

Mahavir Acharya

Managing Director

Rupesh Hurmade

Executive Director

Team

Gulal Bhavsar
Karamshi Rangani
Ramesh Prajapati
Jignesh Bhatt
Chetana Varu
Jamna Rathod
Sanjay Rathod
Abji Pal
Hiren Gohil
Arvind Anthu
Rajesh Gor
Shankar
Ramsingh
About AINA
Mandatory Disclosures
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Website Design: ArchiSHOTS

Sandeep Virmani

Sandeep Virmani is an Indian architect and development professional with over 25 years of experience working in the arid region of Kutch, Gujarat. He has founded and led several organisations focused on sustainable development, including Sahjeevan, Satvik, and Hunnarshala Foundation. Sandeep’s work spans water management, organic agriculture, renewable energy, and community empowerment. He has developed decentralised drinking water systems, revived pastoral animal husbandry, and demonstrated sustainable waste management models. Sandeep has also been involved in policy advocacy, disaster rehabilitation, and capacity building of local communities and institutions. He has received several awards, including the Anil Shah Gram Vikas Award and the Domestic Animals Biodiversity Conservation Award, in recognition of his contributions to rural development and environmental conservation.

Dharmesh Vikramsinh Jadeja

A civil engineer by training, Dharmesh Vikramsinh Jadeja has dedicated over 30 years to living and working in Auroville, India. His early interest in indigenous housing solutions inspired a search for simple, culturally appropriate designs using local resources. He is influenced by his interactions with Masters in art, architecture, and design. Dharmesh focuses on exploring sustainability and resolving design problems through local culture, communities, and resources. Through Dustudio, he collaborates with artisans and crafts people to re-establish handcrafted elements in contemporary spatial design. His work ranges from social housing and disaster rehabilitation to heritage conservation and more. Dharmesh’s diverse interests include writing, poetry, ceramics, and traditional crafts. He is actively involved with INTACH in Porbandar and divides his time between Dhrafa Studio and Auroville.

Dr. Jigna Desai

Dr. Jigna Desai is a professor of Architecture and Heritage Conservation at the Faculty of Architecture, CEPT University, Ahmedabad and is the Head of Center for Heritage Conservation, CEPT Research and Development Foundation. She is an expert member of the International Scientific Committee for Historic Cities and Towns and Villages at the International Council for Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). She is a guest scholar (2024 – 25 cycle) at Getty Conservation Institute, Los Angeles and a visiting professor at Nottingham Trent University. Jigna is also the founding partner at a small award-winning architectural practice, JMA Design Collaborative, that is currently headed by Mehul Bhatt.

As a director of AINA, Jigna contributes towards strategic planning, vision building, and direction of organisation to achieve its objectives. As academician and institutional head, she brings new insights and prioritisation focusing on developmental issues.

Mahavir Acharya

Mahavir Acharya is a highly experienced civil engineer with nearly four decades of expertise in construction and management. He co-founded Hunnarshala, dedicating 20 years to promoting sustainable architecture and empowering communities. As the Managing Director for the past five to six years, he oversees the organisation’s operations and strategic planning. Mahavir is also the founder and Managing Director of AINA, focusing on capacity building and research innovations. With a passion for working closely with communities and artisans, he integrates traditional knowledge into sustainable development projects. His leadership, research-driven approach, and commitment to community engagement have made him an influential figure in the field of sustainable architecture. 

Rupesh Hurmade

Rupesh Hurmade is a dedicated civil engineer with a career spanning over two decades. Since joining Hunnarshala in 2003, he has been instrumental in promoting alternative building technologies and empowering communities through his role as a founding member of Aaina. Focusing on post-disaster projects and slum development, Rupesh’s expertise lies in project management and community-based initiatives. His core strength is executing urban housing projects and conducting mason training programs. As the Executive Director of AINA’s Community Empowerment Unit, Rupesh continues to make a significant impact on urban housing issues, championing an owner-driven approach to development. 

Gulal Bhavsar

Gulal Bhavsar is a highly skilled professional with a Master’s degree in Construction Management. She specialises in research and laboratory management, having been responsible for these areas for the past two years. As a member of the management committee, Gulal holds the position of Laboratory Incharge. Her keen interest in material testing and scientific methodologies enables her to contribute effectively in this scientific role. Gulal’s expertise in managing laboratory operations and her dedication to quality assurance make her a valuable asset to the organisation.

Karamshi Rangani

Popular as Kaka, Karamshi Rangani is the master supervisor having experience of more than 40 years. Before joining AINA, he worked with Hunnarshala as a space frame expert and later due to his multi-specialty in building construction and technologies, he become instrumental in executing many prestigious projects. He is an experienced trainer in earth and bamboo-based technologies and has trained a number of masons and mentors to become young supervisors.

Jignesh Bhatt

Jignesh Bhatt is a civil engineer with a keen interest in project management and alternative building technologies. With his background in community-based projects, Jignesh brings valuable experience to the table. He is an integral part of the management committee at AINA, where he plays a key role in leading institutional building projects. Jignesh’s expertise lies in executing construction projects focusing on community involvement and sustainable practices. His dedication to creating impactful structures that meet the needs of the community sets him apart. With his skills and experience, Jignesh contributes significantly to AINA’s mission of promoting sustainable development and community empowerment.

Chetna Varu

Chetna Varu is a post-graduate in commerce specialising in finance control. Since 2005, she has been an integral part of Hunnarshala and now AAINA, where she plays a crucial role in managing the financial aspects of the organisation. With her expertise in finance, Chetna ensures efficient financial control, budgeting, and resource allocation. Her meticulous approach and attention to detail contribute to the smooth financial functioning of Aaina, supporting its mission of sustainable development. Chetna’s proficiency in finance management makes her a valuable asset to the organisation.

Jamnaben Rathod

Jamnaben Rathod has been a dedicated caretaker of the office since 2003. Affectionately referred to as “masi” by everyone, she is known for her nurturing nature and motherly care towards her colleagues. Like a mother, Jamnaben goes above and beyond to ensure the well-being and comfort of the team. Her presence and support create a warm and welcoming environment within the office. Jamnaben’s dedication and nurturing qualities make her an indispensable part of the organisation’s work culture.

Sanjay Rathod

Sanjay Rathod is a young graduate in commerce and looks after administration works. He helps project and finance team for procurements. He also looks after event management and logistic arrangements to support project staff for smooth movement.

Hiren Gohill

Hiren Gohill is an expert building supervisor with a specialisation in rammed earth construction. With a background in commerce, Hiren has been actively involved in the construction field for the past 15 years. He initially started his career at Hunnarshala and later transitioned to Aaina. As a project manager, Hiren closely works with rammed earth techniques, leveraging his expertise to ensure the successful implementation of projects. His extensive experience and deep knowledge of rammed earth construction make him a valuable asset to the organisation.

Arvind Anthu

Arvind Anthu is an experienced supervisor with a specialisation in restoration projects abroad. He has worked on notable restoration projects in Abu Dhabi, showcasing his expertise in lime and mud finishes. With his extensive experience, Arvind brings valuable insights and knowledge to the field of heritage restoration. As a skilled supervisor, he excels in overseeing projects, ensuring the meticulous application of lime and mud finishes, and preserving the authenticity of historical structures. Arvind’s dedication to his craft and his expertise in restoration make him a sought-after professional in the industry.

Rajesh Gor

Rajesh Gor is an expert building supervisor with a strong background in logistics management. With exceptional skills in site management and human resource coordination, Rajesh is highly regarded for his efficient and effective work implementation. With 15 years of experience, he has developed a reputation for his vast network of connections and the ability to swiftly execute projects. Rajesh’s expertise in coordinating logistics, managing resources, and his swift problem-solving skills make him an invaluable asset in the construction industry.