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Human beings are, at their very core, nature lovers. The fast pace of urban life has rekindled the desire for a serene, quiet place to take in oxygen-rich air. Also, people long to grow their own food, which they can trust to be free of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. All of this can be fulfilled with a piece of the earth at Madhuvana.

What makes Madhuvana so special?
The very purpose of this farmland project is to enable a holistic natural community which can serve as a model for future. At Madhuavana our focus is not quantity but on quality. The emphasis on quantity leads many to use inorganic, potentially harmful chemical fertilisers and pesticides that accelerate growth and production, at the cost of trickling effects across the ecosystem. Its become extremely difficult for normal farmers to continue organic farming practices in the current scenario as the yield is low, prices of organic vs non organic produce is nearly the same and farmers cultivating using organic methods are unable to make ends meet. Hence its important for like minded communities to evolve and start supporting organic farming methods for their own good health.

At Madhuvana, we care most about the self-sufficiency and quality of produce. Therefore all agricultural products are organic. Locally grown tree species, shrubs and other plants are maintained with minimal interference in the natural order of things. Here, multicultural crop based agriculture is practised to enrich soil quality. The team is equipped with expertise on agriculture and how to adapt and synchronise production with local climatic conditions.

In the ancient Indian texts of Sasyashastra and Vanyashastra, conceptual vanas (forests) were given immense importance. There are various conceptual Vanas such as Navagraha Vanas, Rashi Vanas, Panchavati Vanas, Nakshatra Vanas, Saraswathi Vana, etc., each of which has a very specific formation and set of trees clearly documented in Vanyashastra Samhita. These conceptual vanas are formed of traditional trees such as Kadamba, Bakula, Shreegandha, and Ashwattha, which with their widespread roots and mineral-rich systems, enrich soil quality. The by-products of decaying leaves are also known to naturally purify the groundwater and also cultivate soil. They maintain the balance of dissolved oxygen in water which in turn keeps contamination at bay. Moolika Vana is said to be medicinal while Saraswati Vana is said to enhance knowledge. Likewise, Navagraha Vana, Rashi Vana, Panchavati Vana, Sarasvathi Vana and Nakshatra Vana, which are intended to be integrated in Madhuvana.

Nature is blessed with a variety of plants having medicinal properties. A potent example is Seetha Ashoka. In Ayurveda, the Ashoka (In Sanskrit means removes Shokha) tree is known for its spiritual qualities as well acts as a anti-depressant. The Ashoka bark is primarily beneficial for treating menstrual problems in women, including dysmenorrhea, abdominal pain and uterine spasms. The bark has an abundant amount of tannins, flavonoids, and glycosides that altogether work as a uterine tonic. The roots and seeds of ashoka treat skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and dermatitis.

We have a good understanding of the doctrines of Varahamihira, who was a great scientist and scholar that contributed tremendously to the fields of hydrology, geology and ecology. According to Varahamihira five trees – punnaga, arishta, ashoka, shireesha, and priyangu, must be planted near every house as they represent the panchabhutas (the five elements). In Varahamihira’s Brihatsamhita, he states that a healthy person has achieved internal balance between the 5 elements. Therefore, planting these five trees benefits both human beings and the surrounding environment.

At Madhuvana each habitat is critically examined. For instance, some birds prefer tall species of trees while some prefer short trees to build their nests. Many animals make their homes so as to easily access specific food needs. We would want to facilitate as many life forms in the farmland to keep the ecosystem balanced and ensure holistic natural collaboration. All these are considered carefully in order to maintain biodiversity and leave the natural bio cycle unharmed. Birdsong is interconnected with the processes in the ecosystem. There are subtle rhythms in nature that enable synchronicity and timing, and birds are naturally attuned to them. At Madhuvana, we make sure to build habitats that ensure local and migratory birds are thriving and able to perform symbiotic natural functions.

Farmland owners can certainly experience a better quality of life being amidst like minded community and experience farming themselves. This can be a great feeling of learning not only about farming, our rich and vibrant scriptures as well as the hidden secrets of nature. Those who find gratification in serving the community can experience a great sense of satisfaction being part of Madhuvana.

Indus Herbs and VanaTvam are committed to create a sustainable eco-system for future generations. Environment conscious people with a spiritual mindset can live a holistically gratified life at Madhuvana.