Every once in a while, it benefits us to disconnect from the world and experience peace and tranquillity –– even better if this comes with glimpses of culture, art, nature, and more.
In Bhubaneswar in Odisha, Svanir Wilderness Ecostay is nestled among lush greenery. A place that willfully does not offer distractions of WiFi and televisions is enhanced by elements that reflect Odisha’s culture. Through Santhal art being featured across the six cottages on the walls and bed structures, the homestay instantly feels closer to the traditions of the region.
Svanir, in its all-encompassing nature, aims to reduce our carbon footprint and encourages us to go back to our roots, be eco-conscious, and embrace slow living. For these reasons, there are no showerheads installed, and bathing with a bucket is the only way to go. They also practice rainwater harvesting.
The place was set up by Soumya and Indrani Mukherji, who took over the land and built the homestay after their father was contemplating its sale. They employ people from the local village of Dalua, and aim to give back whatever they can. Indrani whips up the food served at the homestay and sources her vegetables right from their garden. As expected, Odia cuisine is unquestionably her speciality.
“Most of the people here work with the forest department, and since the forests are closed during this time of year, they tend to be out of work. We are doing our best to do our bit, so that people from the village are employed.”
— Indrani Mukherji (via Conde Nast Traveller)
Feeling close to our roots in regional India may not always have to be a second-hand experience through a form of media. Homestays like Svanir Wilderness Ecostay make for a wonderful opportunity to simply slow down and imbibe Odia culture through food, art, architecture, and more.
Find Svanir Wilderness Ecostay here.
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