In an era dominated by the pursuit of material wealth, Sakshi Bhatia and Arpit Maheshwari, both IIT toppers, chose a path less traveled. They traded their high-paying corporate jobs in the United States for a simpler, eco-conscious life in rural India, where they built a sustainable farm named Jeevantika and a self-made mud house that stands as a testament to their commitment to sustainability.
A Journey Inspired by Minimalism
The seeds of their transformation were sown in 2015 during a life-changing backpacking trip across South America. “The futility of consumerism started to gnaw at us,” recalls Arpit. Before embarking on their travels, the couple sold most of their belongings, embracing a minimalist lifestyle. As they journeyed through the Amazon, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia, they experienced the profound beauty of living in harmony with nature. This trip cemented their desire to adopt a sustainable way of life.
Returning Home to Build a Dream
In 2017, Sakshi and Arpit returned to India, leaving behind the luxuries of city life. They chose Badnagar, a small village in Madhya Pradesh, to begin their journey toward sustainability. On a modest 1.5-acre plot of land, they established Jeevantika, their organic farm, with the goal of growing most of their own food. Today, the couple cultivates nearly 85% of what they consume, with the only exception being oil, as they lack the machinery to produce it.
A Mudhouse Like No Other
The centerpiece of their sustainable lifestyle is their hand-built mud house, constructed entirely without external assistance. “Building a mud house is tougher than cracking JEE,” jokes Sakshi, reflecting on the physical and emotional challenges they faced during the three-month construction process.
The house, built from natural materials, remains cool even during the peak of summer, eliminating the need for electricity-dependent appliances like fans or air conditioning. Remarkably, the couple has also chosen to forgo a refrigerator, relying instead on their farm’s fresh produce, which they harvest as needed.
Living in Harmony with Nature
At Jeevantika, Sakshi and Arpit follow permaculture principles, ensuring their farming practices promote ecological balance and sustainability. By growing their own food, reducing waste, and embracing a minimalist lifestyle, the couple has achieved a level of self-sufficiency that many aspire to but rarely attain.
“The process of living off the land has brought us immense joy and a sense of purpose,” says Sakshi. Despite the hard work and occasional challenges, the couple feels deeply connected to their surroundings, finding happiness in the simplicity of their everyday life.
An Inspiring Shift
Sakshi and Arpit’s journey from corporate America to rural India is not just a story of personal transformation but also an inspiring example of how sustainable living can lead to a more fulfilling life. In an increasingly consumer-driven world, their decision to prioritize harmony with nature over material comforts offers a refreshing perspective on what it truly means to be happy.
Through Jeevantika, the couple has found their calling, proving that sometimes, happiness lies not in accumulating more, but in embracing less.